How does the academy support the transition process from primary to secondary school?

• The transition from primary to secondary school is an exciting and sometimes daunting time for both students and parents and we aim to make it as smooth and stress free as possible.

• Our New Families’ Handbook on our website tells you everything you and your child need to know before you start. We usually host a series of transition at the academy events to help new students to get to know their peers, the academy and the staff, including a whole year group trip at the start of the new academic year.

• For students joining us in September 2020 we had to do things slightly differently as face to face meetings were not possible:

  • We had a dedicated transition website for new year 7 students which included welcome videos from key staff, a virtual tour, messages from current students and wellbeing advice.

  • Welcome meeting with Clare and key staff via Zoom – families could ask questions via the chat.

  • Twice monthly year 7 transition newsletter to families with updates and information

At the start of the new academic year, year 7 students have an induction day with the academy all to themselves to allow them time to adjust to their new school and find their way around before the rest of the students come back.