Transition from primary to secondary

Changing schools

Whether a child is making the transition from primary to secondary school or starting a new school because the family has moved to a different area, they are likely to need extra support from parents and other family members at first. How a child copes with change can very much depend on the kind of support she or he receives.

Some things that can help include:

• Involving your child in the decision over which school she or he attends.

• Visiting the school with your child to meet teachers beforehand even if you already have children at the school. Many secondary schools arrange 'taster days’ for new pupils.

• Finding out which teacher to contact, when and how, in case you have any questions or problems.

• Giving advance notice of any particular needs of the child so that teachers can be ready with any support that is needed.

• Looking through the school prospectus together, to check rules and regulations, and what is required in the way of school uniform.