Supporting Your Child’s Transition from Primary to Secondary School

The move from Year 6 to Year 7 is a significant milestone in a child’s educational journey. This transition can be both exciting and daunting for children and parents alike. At Cardiff & Vale Tutors, we understand the challenges that come with this change and are here to provide you with tips and support to ensure a smooth transition for your child.

Transitioning to secondary school involves adapting to a new environment, managing increased academic demands and navigating social changes. Children move from being the oldest in primary school to the youngest in secondary school, which can impact their confidence and sense of security. Our experienced tutors at Cardiff & Vale Tutors are well-equipped to help your child build the skills and resilience needed to thrive in this new phase. We can support children with homework and help to bridge the gap between primary and secondary school.

Tips to Support Your Child

#1. Familiarise Them with the New Environment

Before the start of the school year, take the time to visit the new school with your child. Attend open days, orientation sessions and any transition activities offered by the school. Familiarity with the school layout, meeting key staff members and understanding the daily routine can alleviate anxiety and build confidence. Sometimes visits to the school are possible while you are choosing where you would like to send your child to secondary school, and visiting multiple schools (if that is possible), prior to choosing the most preferred one, could support your child’s confidence and help build some excitement rather than fear about the upcoming change.

#2. Develop Organisational Skills

Secondary school comes with a more complex schedule, multiple teachers and various subjects. Suddenly children might need to bring in their P.E kit and ingredients or materials for a DT lesson! Therefore, help your child develop organisational skills by teaching them how to use a planner or digital calendar to keep track of homework, assignments and extracurricular activities. Encourage them to pack their school bag the night before and set out their uniform to reduce morning stress.

#3. Establish a Study Routine

The academic demands in secondary school are higher, and it is crucial to establish a consistent study routine early on. Create a quiet, distraction-free study area at home and set specific times for homework and revision. Our tutors can provide personalised study plans and strategies tailored to your child’s needs, ensuring they stay on top of their workload. The sooner children learn how to revise and get into the habit of doing extra work at home after school, the easier it will be to revise when it comes to GCSE and A-Level exams.

If there is a subject or aspect of secondary school you child is worried about, you may want to consider doing a few tutoring sessions those subjects. That way your child can feel more prepared for the upcoming year. Alternatively, if you have any questions or concerns, we are always happy to have a chat with you and explain the process of transition.

We wish all students transitioning from Year 6 to Year 7 the very best!

Written by Aleksandra Dul-A level and GCSE English tutor for Cardiff & Vale Tutors