Transition 2024

Frequently Asked Questions

If your question is not answered below - please use this form to ask us directly.

Are students guaranteed a peer supporter?

Those that have been identified as likely to struggle with transition more by their Year 6 Teacher will be allocated a 1:1 Peer Supporter who will meet with them face to face on Transition Day and support them in September. If you feel your child needs a 1:1 when they start, please request via your child's Year 6 teacher and/or through the Parent/Child questionnaire.

What happens if my child gets lost in school?

They can't get lost! They just might not know where to go next... Students are reassured about this during our visits but if they do "get lost" then they simply need to ask the nearest person whether that be a student or a member of staff. We're a friendly bunch and always look out for each other.

How do I make payments for trips and events?

All payments are completed online and details will be sent through during the summer term. Any queries regarding payments can be directed to finance@romsey.hants.sch.uk

Are the children put into sets and how is this decided?

In Year 7, students are taught in their mixed ability tutor groups for all lessons other than Design (where smaller groups are required) and in English and Maths where sets are determined based on early assessments in Year 7 and information from Teacher Assessments from Primary Schools as well as SATS results. Opportunities to move sets are available throughout the year as students settle into secondary school life.

Can my child cycle to school?

Yes! We encourage students to cycle to school. They'll need to ensure they wear a helmet and other safety gear as well as committing to cycling safely. They can store their bike in our bike park and we advise them to bring a lock although the area is also covered by CCTV cameras. Early in September students will be asked to complete a Bike Permit that covers all this - but they can start cycling immediately.

Do students have access to lockers?

The school no longer uses lockers. We have found over the years that only a small number of students were actually using them so they have been removed. Your child will be able to leave any bulky items or large pieces of home learning with their tutor.

Do they have to leave the school site when their lessons finish for the day?

The vast majority of students do make their way home at 3.00pm. However, the library is open on certain days after school for students and there are a wide range of extra-curricular clubs that students can get involved in.

How do lunchtimes & the canteen work?

Students have a morning break between 11:05 and 11:20 as well as a lunch break between 13:20 and 14:00. During this time they can queue for the canteen for food and are free to entertain themselves around the site. The canteen has a wide range of food which is gradually set out during the lunch ensuring there is plenty of choice for all. Payments are made via fingerprint linked to an account that can be monitored and topped up by parents at home. Further details will follow on how to sign up to this system. All foods are clearly labelled with allergy information as appropriate.

How much home learning do students get each night?

It will vary! There will be more home learning on average than students received at Primary School but they should expect, in Year 7, around 30 minutes of home learning per night.

How does the school communicate with parents?

The vast majority of communications from the school are now done via email so it is very important that you keep your email address up to date. Certain key communications including progress reports are sent home on paper. We may also contact parents via text message in reference to attendance or call them where a specific issue needs to be discussed.

What pastoral support is available for my child?

Romsey is renowned for its world class pastoral care and we take great pride in treating each child as an individual and caring for their whole person as well as their education. Whilst we are not a healthcare provider and therefore would look for support from a child's GP or CAMHS for more significant mental health needs; everyday pastoral support can be accessed from each child's tutor, their Assistant Progress Leader or from the Student Support Block.

How do you give support to children who are coming to the school not knowing many people at all?

Romsey typically accepts students from as many as 40 different primary schools each September. As a result, the setting of tutor groups is managed very carefully to ensure that no one primary school dominates the group. Typically there will therefore be as many as 12 different primary schools represented in each tutor group with many providing only one or two students. Tutors work to develop and support relationships amongst their tutees from Induction Day onwards and we find most students adapt and make friends quickly. The summer school is an excellent opportunity for those that do not know many students to make new friends.

How strict is the school about the correct uniform?

As a school we are very proud of our smart and distinctive uniform and expect all students to wear it correctly on their way to and from school as well us during the school day. Please ensure you are fully aware of the uniform guidelines (which can be found in the school planner and on the uniform page here) so as you can support your child in making good decisions around clothing, haircuts and jewellery etc. A uniform grant is available for low income families to support the purchase of uniform.

What support is available for my child if they are struggling in a lesson?

If a student is struggling with their learning, we would hope that students have the confidence to speak to their teacher themselves or at least speak to their tutor who can help them speak to their teacher. However, if you as a parent have concerns or queries regarding a particular lesson/subject then we would encourage you to contact the appropriate teacher or curriculum leader through the school website.