The most commonly asked questions by first are normally of the 'What if?' Variety!

What if I get lost?'

Trust me, you won't get lost. You move to new classrooms with your classmates. If a situation arises where you are not with your group remember that all the classroom doors are clearly labelled. The school, although probably bigger than your primary school has two floors along straight corridors. Nowhere to get lost! Rooms 1-10 are all downstairs. Rooms 11-20 are all upstairs. Still worried? Just speak to Susan at the desk and she will point you in the right direction!

What if I struggle to make friends?

We are a small school but still bigger than primary school. This means that there are more people in school than in your last school. There is a far better chance of meeting someone here that you share an interest with.

To ensure you are comfortable in your new environment, you will be placed in a class group with someone you already know.

You will complete a survey after the first few weeks. If you feel you haven't made friends you can highlight this and we will do everything we can to help you develop new friendships.

What if the work is too hard?

The school will have your passport information from primary school. You will already have told us what you find difficult. Teachers are very good at breaking down the work into more manageable parts. Our classes have all abilities of students and every student has their own areas of strength and of need. When it comes to subject choice, you will have the chance to chose those subjects that you are better at and enjoy more. If you received Learning Support at Primary School, you will also be offered it with us. Never be afraid to ask questions or tell the teacher when you are unsure of an area of learning. If you are too self-conscious to ask during class, you can always wait back and speak with your teacher.

Does everyone eat in the canteen?

Although the canteen is good value, it suits many students to take a packed lunch on certain days and to take money for the canteen on other days. Whichever you decide, the seating area in the canteen can be used to eat your lunch with your friends.

What if there is too much homework?

Homework should not take much longer than 1.5 to 2 hours every evening. If you are struggling to complete your homework or are spending much more time than two hours trying to get it completed; speak with your subject teacher, class teacher or Ms Ward.

What if I forget my lunch money?

If you forget your lunch money or lunch speak with Susan at the front desk. She has tokens that can be used on these occasional instances.

What if I am being bullied?

The school has a very strict anti-bullying policy. Much time is devoted to educating young people about what constitutes bullying and the negative impacts it has on an individual. Our mantra in FVC is to be 'Upstanders not Bystanders'. Bullying will not be tolerated. Should it arise that you feel you are being unfairly treated by others speak to your class teacher, year head or any other trusted member of staff as soon as possible. Your concerns will be dealt with sensitively. Should you feel unable to approach a member of staff ask your parent to speak with someone on your behalf.

What if I forget my books/homework?

As long as this is not a common occurrence don't worry too much! Speak with your teacher quietly before class begins.

Can I leave the school grounds at lunchtime?

The answer is Yes. Yes if your parents have signed an indemnity form. Many first years choose to remain on the school grounds at lunchtime however. The canteen is good value, the nearest shop is not too near and lunchtime is 40 minutes...Relax instead of running!