It may not always feel like it but going to school can really make a difference. It gives you the chance to take control of your future and get the things you want in life.
So work hard, take all the support and advice on offer and you will be on the path to get qualifications which can open the doors to further study, jobs and careers!
Follow the links below for tips and advice to help you on your way.
- If you’ll be travelling to your school or college on your own practise the journey before you start. Perhaps your carer or a friend could go with you the first time.
- Find out who you can ask for help at your new school. This might be:
- The Designated Teacher
- Another pupil,
- Your form teacher
- The school secretary, or Student Help Desk/Centre
- Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Your teachers will want you to feel happy at school and will be glad to help you if they can.
- If anyone is unkind to you tell a teacher or your carer.
- Don’t worry if the first few days or weeks are a bit confusing – it takes time to get used to new people, places and routines.
- Think about joining lunchtime or after school groups or clubs. These can help you to make new friends and give your teachers a chance to get to know you better.
- Try to be organised and plan ahead. Get your bag and uniform ready the night before so that you don’t have to worry about it in the morning.
- Use your School Planner to make sure you give in your homework on time. You can also write notes in your planner to remind you of useful information like the names of your teachers, and what equipment you need for your lessons.
- If you feel anxious when you’re at school talk about it with you carer or social worker or other trusted adult.
If you're just starting in Year 7
- Get hints and tips to give you a successful start at your secondary school from the 10 Keys to Success booklet (see below).
- Download the Moving On Workbook and Timetable Game (see below) which will help you to start getting ready to start at your new school.
- Print out the School Planner. In your first few days at school you'll be able to write in most of the information. Use it to get organised in your first few days...make sure you know:
- where you have to be and when
- who your teachers are
- what you need to take to school
Your school will probably give a you a school planner which will also help you to get organised for the whole term.
The School Calendar can help to make sure you get all the information you need in the first few days of Secondary School:
Did you know?
If you miss a lot of school your GCSE Grades will go down. Find out more...
Education is important to get the job you have really dreamed of so work hard!
Natalie, aged 17