The academic year is almost over, and many pupils are now about to move from primary school to secondary school. This transition can be a shock to some pupils and it’s important to support them through this move. In this article we’ll discuss some strategies to help pupils moving up to secondary school.
Reasons for difficulty in transitioning
A move from primary school to secondary school brings many changes and requires adjustments from pupils. Here are a few common reasons that cause pupils to struggle in the transition.
Change in expectations
Secondary schools have different expectations from pupils when it comes to behaviour, academic performances, curriculum and maturity. Pupils might find it difficult to adjust to this change and it could cause them to disengage.
New teachers
A move to a new school brings with it a new set of teachers. Secondary schools will also have many more teachers engaging with the pupil as secondary schools have subject-specific teachers as opposed to primary schools that one teacher for most lessons (aside from specific curriculum in subjects like music, PE or PSHE).
Change in social circles
The sad truth is that when moving to secondary school, friend groups often split up. This could be due to the pupils going to different schools but can also be due to a change in social circle with the introduction of new pupils from other schools. This can cause pupils to feel isolated and unbalanced without the support of their friend group.
Change in environment
All the above, alongside the fact that most secondary schools tend to be much bigger than primary schools, means that pupils need to adjust to a completely different environment. Such a change can be intimidating and could cause pupils to feel out of place and anxious.
Ways to support pupils
There are a number of ways pupils can be supported through this transition, and it’s important to start early so they are ready for September.
Set expectations
Ensuring that pupils understand what will be expected from them in secondary school will help them to be prepared. Start by explaining the expectations and change the approach within the classroom to be more in line with those.
Introduce new friend groups
Once pupils know what schools they are due to move to look to bring together pupils who are going to the same school who do not know each other that well. This can be done organically, or through a classroom activity where students going to the same secondary school are set into groups to work on projects together.
Note: this activity works most effectively if all your pupils have at least one other child who is going to the same school as them. If some of your pupils are moving up to a school on their own it could risk them feeling more isolated.
Prepare the curriculum
Curriculum continuity is crucial to ensure pupils do not fall behind when starting their lessons in secondary school. Begin to introduce the curriculum they are set to be following next year, and, where possible, work to integrate some of the topics that will be covered into your current lesson plans.
Encourage open days
Many secondary schools offer open days where pupils can go and visit the school, get to know the surrounding, their teachers, and their potential peers. Work with your local secondary schools to facilitate those days to ensure that pupils feel fully prepared to the move.
LMP Action’s Transition Camps
LMP Action runs Summer Transition Camps. These summer school initiatives provide young people with the extra support they need to have a smooth transition from primary to secondary school. The LMP programme offers creatively devised sessions that are fun and engaging over the course of one week. The camps are delivered by qualified teachers and LMP Action staff who offer a holistic approach, measuring self-esteem whilst underpinning numeracy and literacy principles.
Learn more about our transition camps
Contact
