- Work Hard
- 13th Sep 2024
- 0
- 5 minutes
Navigating the transition from Junior to Senior School: Advice from Dame Allan’s Schools
As the new school year begins, many students are preparing to move from Junior to Senior School – a big change that can feel both exciting and daunting.
Dame Allan’s Schools understands that this transition can be a challenge, which is why their Director of Pupil Wellbeing, Mrs Jo Downie, is here to share some helpful advice to ease the shift and make the move as smooth as possible.
WHAT ARE THE BIGGEST DIFFERENCES BETWEEN JUNIOR AND SENIOR SCHOOL?
One of the most noticeable changes for students is going from being the oldest in a small school to being the youngest in a much larger environment. It can be quite an adjustment to navigate a bigger school with older pupils, new faces and busier surroundings. However, the key is to embrace the excitement that comes with this new adventure.
At Dame Allan’s Schools, our new Senior School pupils will also be introduced to subjects like French, food and nutrition, and design technology, which may be entirely new to them.
From Year 5 onwards, we offer timetabled sessions in these subjects to help our Junior School pupils get familiar with these subjects and their new surroundings. This way, they’ve already met their teachers and had a chance to explore Senior School facilities like our technology suites, cooking classrooms, and art spaces.
Another significant change is the increased level of independence expected at senior school. Pupils will need to manage their timetables, complete homework, and stay organised with their equipment for different classes. Though this may feel like a lot, they will receive plenty of support from teachers and staff to help them adjust.
4 TIPS TO HELP ADJUST TO A LARGER SCHOOL ENVIRONMENT
- Master timekeeping: Arriving on time for school and being prompt between lessons can help reduce the stress of navigating a bigger campus. Encourage your child to plan ahead, so they don’t feel rushed or disoriented.
- Stay organised: Senior School schedules can be busy and varied. Help your child prepare by ensuring they have the right equipment, from textbooks to sports kits. At Dame Allan’s, our pupils use Chromebooks for certain classes, so making sure they’re charged and ready is key.
- Ask questions: It’s natural to feel unsure at first, and we always encourage pupils to ask questions – whether it’s about finding their next class or understanding their homework. Our form teachers are always available during form time for advice and support.
- Be kind: Moving to Senior School can be nerve-wracking, not just for your child but for many others. A kind word or a simple gesture, like inviting someone to sit with them, can go a long way in easing the transition for everyone.
SUPPORT SYSTEMS AT DAME ALLAN’S SCHOOLS
At Dame Allan’s Schools, we pride ourselves on offering industry-leading pastoral care, ensuring every pupil feels supported. Year 7 pupils benefit from a variety of support systems, including Sixth Form peer mentors, a dedicated nurture group for those needing extra help, and expert special educational needs support.
Our Snug area provides a quiet space for pupils to access specialised services, including counselling and learning support. Plus, Heidi, our much-loved therapy dog, is always around to offer some extra comfort.
If pupils ever feel overwhelmed, they can reach out to their form tutor, the pastoral team, or even use our anonymous Whisper service to seek advice without feeling pressured.
KEY SKILLS FOR SUCCESS IN SENIOR SCHOOL
Success in Senior School isn’t just about academics; it’s also about developing important life skills. At Dame Allan’s Schools, we focus on four key ‘Attributes for Success’: being respectful, motivated, strategic and a meta-thinker. These skills help pupils take control of their learning and get the most out of their school experience.
- Communication: Encourage your child to engage with their teachers and classmates. Practising conversation skills at home can help build confidence when meeting new people.
- Problem-solving and adaptability: Change can be challenging, but learning how to adapt and approach new situations with a problem-solving mindset will be invaluable throughout their school years.
- Bravery: Trying new things, even when nervous, can help your child grow. Our Year 7 residential trip is designed to encourage bravery and team building, featuring activities like a giant swing that challenges pupils in a fun, supportive way.
KEY DATES FOR YOUR DIARY
Open mornings
Junior School and Nursery (age 3-11)
Saturday 21st September 2024
Senior Schools and Sixth Form (age 11-18)
Saturday 28th September 2024
Senior School Entrance Exams
Saturday 11th and Saturday 25th January 2025
Senior School Offer Period
Mid-February to March 2025
VISIT DAME ALLAN’S SCHOOLS’ WEBSITE
Rachael Ellis
Creative Solutions Manager
After gaining a first in her BA Media and Journalism degree at Northumbria University, Rachael worked at Newcastle’s leading regional newspaper with her stories being picked up in national and global newspapers She spent two very successful years giving a voice to those communities across the North East who otherwise…
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