parents

If you are a parent or carer of a young person getting ready to start secondary school, have a look at the Moving On Well Top Tips to help and support your child.

See a summary of the guide below:

growing independence

Through secondary school your child will grow more and more in their independence as they become a young adult.

Avoid doing everything for them in the beginning, but support them to start doing things for themselves like, setting their own alarm in the mornings or packing their own bags the night before.

All children will be at different stages of independence but what they will all need is your support to help them grow and be successful. Set them up to succeed.

building confidence

Be positive! Even if your own school days were not the best. Try to instil a sense of excitement and enthusiasm in your child.

Remind your child that everyone is in the same boat when they start. Talk to them about ways to initiate conversations if they find this difficult.

Encourage them to join clubs and become involved in school life. This can be a good way to make friends.

practical help

Discuss and practice the route your child will take to their new school. Talk about what they can do if things go wrong, like the bus is late or they miss it altogether.

Check out the new school website together. Be sure to find out who you need to contact at the school if you have any queries before or once your child has started at their new school.

Make sure your child has the correct uniform, school bag and all the equipment they need.

Watch the Transition Videos for more information and resources that will help you and your child prepare for September.

emotional support

Talk to your child about their feelings and worries about starting at secondary school.

Talk through some unexpected situations they might face at school and help them to come up with solutions of what they should do; 'If you miss the bus...; If you lose your dinner money...; If you feel unwell...; If you feel unhappy...'

Always ask your child how was their day when they get home from school. Share with them in their wins, encourage them in their losses.

Download this resource

The Lemonade Project

...for when life gives you lemons...

parents

growing independence

building confidence

practical help

emotional support