All You Need to Know

• I feel really anxious about my new school

  That's completely normal, but sometimes you can build something up in your mind to seem more scary than it actually is.

  Talk to other people who are in the same situation and you'll realise that you're not alone in feeling that way.

  It's important not to let your anxiety build up too much, so talk about how you're feeling. Speak to your parents or carers, or a friend, or an older brother, sister or cousin who has been through the same thing. They should all be able to help you understand that high school isn't as scary as you think it might be.

• I'm worried about the journey to school

  Quite often your secondary school will be further away from home than your primary school, so you'll need to plan how you're going to get there with your parents or carers.

  If your parent or carer is taking you, plan everything you need to have ready so that you are feeling calm when you leave.

  If you're going on your own, make sure you know the way and leave yourself enough time to get there without rushing. If you're getting a bus or a train, make sure you know where to get on and be there in plenty of time.

• I might not be able to find my way around

  Your new school is likely to be bigger than your old one, so it's natural to be worried about finding your way around.

  Remember everyone in your year is feeling that way. The school knows this and they'll help you get your bearings.

  Sometimes you'll spend a couple of days at your new school before you start so that you can get familiar with it.

• How do I get prepared?

  Being prepared can help you feel calmer and more confident. There are lots of things you can do to make sure you’re prepared for your new school:

  • Find out what you need to take like pens, pencils or a calculator - the school will let you have this information
  • Make a note of your lesson timetable
  • Write down your homework and when it’s due so you don’t forget
  • Remember that your new school might have different rules compared to your old school. If you’re ever not sure, ask a teacher.

• I'm worried about making friends

  This is probably one of the biggest worries when you start a new school with a lot of people you don't know.

  It's normal to worry about being lonely or being bullied, but there are things you can do to make it easier:

  • When you meet someone new, smile, look them in the eye and speak clearly and confidently.
  • Practise going up to someone new and starting a conversation - the more you try, the easier it gets.
  • Be patient, it can take time to make new friends. If you're worried about break times and being on your own, see if there are any lunchtime clubs you can join, where you might meet people with the same interests as you. You might also be able to use the library or computer room until you feel more confident.

• Will I be able to join some clubs?

  Definitely - one of the best things about starting secondary school is the opportunities it creates. Your primary school might have had one or two clubs or sports teams you could join but at secondary school, there are clubs for (almost) every interest.

  They are a great way to get to know more people at your school, especially if you are not moving up to secondary school with your closest friends from primary. Meeting people interested in the same things you love doing is often how many strong friendships start.