Will I get lost? The transition from Primary to Secondary School

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Although we are incredibly aware of the challenges that may occur during this important transition, we are also keen to highlight all of the opportunities that take place at secondary school; a greater variety of extra-curricular activities, the chance to specialise in subjects, learning from subject specialist teachers, overseas trips, meeting new people and growing into a young adult with lots of leadership opportunities.

At Our Lady’s, our school motto is ‘Shaping tomorrow, inspired by faith’. It is our belief and we are committed to providing the education and opportunities for our students to be able to go into the world and shape their, and their fellow citizens, tomorrow. Being a small all-girls school enables us to get to know every student, much like at primary school, and to provide a bespoke range of exciting opportunities.

Upon receipt of a place at Our Lady’s, we are committed to making the transition to our school as smooth as possible. In the days following, we will be in touch to provide information, a member of the senior leadership team will conduct a parent/student interview and there will be a programme of events right up until the start of the new term in September. 

In early July, there is a transition day, to get to know the school and how secondary school works, followed by an Information Event, allowing families to ask questions and learn more about the school. During the first week of the summer holidays, the whole of the new Year 7 cohort will spend a week in school, taking part in fun activities and lessons. This is a great chance to meet our staff and get to know their way around the school (which is often a worry). We have found that meeting new classmates ahead of the new term makes each young person feel more reassured about moving into secondary school.

When school starts again in September, the first two days are dedicated to Year 7, allowing for that initial adjustment without other year groups present. A Bible Mass takes place early in the first term for students and parents followed by an opportunity to meet form tutors and other members of staff. We then round off the transition events with a further Information Event in October which focuses on the curriculum and well-being of our young people, giving parents a chance to meet even more of our committed staff.

At Our Lady’s, we emphasise the importance of a smooth primary/secondary transfer, and this is a key part of your daughter’s school career. We look forward to welcoming the new Year 7’s to our small, safe and caring community.

 

Mr Dave Carter 
Assistant Headteacher