Six ways to help students transition from Primary to Secondary school

Six ways to help students transition from Primary to Secondary school

The transition from primary to secondary school is a massive change in most 11/12-year-olds' academic careers. We all remember the transition from being the biggest and most confident to suddenly the smallest and youngest again. Most students will have had one principle teacher each year for the duration of their education so far. Moving to a new school, usually a much bigger school with older students and new teachers, is a lot for any young person. But as a teacher, you can do a few things to help.

Offer an open day

Most secondary schools do this, but if you don't, it's worth considering. An open day allows students to meet fellow classmates and new teachers and familiarise themselves with the building and new classrooms.

Communicate with their previous school

Working with the student's previous teacher can be a great way to help students feel relaxed about the transition. An email or letter to their teacher explaining what students can expect from their first week and details of who to speak to should they have any issues can be relayed to them by their teacher with whom they already have a good relationship.

Involve parents

Often the parents worry more than the child! It is always worth keeping them in the loop with details of the student's timetable and who to contact should their child struggle.

Offer one-to-one sessions

One-to-one sessions for students and their new teachers can be an excellent way to build rapport and trust. It may also encourage the students to open up about their concerns.

Use name tags during the first week of the term

It's simple, but having name tags can alleviate worries about remembering or knowing people's names.

Use ice-breaker activities 

Ice-breaker activities at the beginning of a new class can be a great way to break any nervous energy in the room. Here is a link to some suitable ice-breaker activities.

We hope these tips will help your students successfully transition from Primary school to Secondary school. For more education and recruitment articles, visit our website.