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September will bring lots of changes for many children. It can be daunting to move into a new class or a new key stage. One of the biggest and most life changing transitions during school years comes at the end of year 6, when children move up to secondary school.  It's an exciting time but they may also be experiencing some anxiety or nervousness about the move.

As parents you may also be feeling worried or anxious about what lies ahead.

We've put together some tips that might help you and your child feel more prepared. 

• Talk
  Give your child opportunities to talk about how they are feeling. It's often hard for pre teens to open up and talk about their emotions. They usually only open up when they are ready to. Be a good listener and be ready to have some open and honest conversations. Can you remember when you started secondary school? Sharing these experiences will help your child.
  
  
• Independence
  A huge part of life at secondary school is about being independent. This is a good time to start encouraging that in all aspects of life. Pupils will be expected to manage their homework diaries, follow timetables and bring the correct books each day, pack and bring the right PE equipment, cookery ingredients etc etc. 
  
  
• New Routines
  So many new routines will be starting. That first early alarm call for the first day of school is always a shock! Start a bit earlier and plan in some early nights and early alarm calls. There are some helpful tips on the Havering website to support young people in planning for their school day, packing bags etc.
  
  
• Focus on the Positives
  It's only natural for children to be apprehensive about a new situation. Try and be ready for any comments or questions and flip them into a positive.
  
  
• Friends
  If suitable for you and your family, try and arrange get togethers over the summer with friends attending the same school. If you can't arrange this in person, use zoom or other social platforms to connect. It's a huge comfort to know others who are going through the same thing.
  
  
• Information
  Visit the school website and get as much information as possible. Many have virtual tours on their websites and this is a great way for kids to become familiar with a new building. 
  
  
• The Journey
  This may be the first time that your child has gone to school on their own. You may be more concerned about this than they are! Even if you both think you know the route really well, go out and do a practice run. Taking the walk/bus together is a good opportunity to have a chat about things too. 
  
  
• The Rules
  Ensure you both know and understand the school rules and expectations.  This will all be available on the school website or handbook. We all feel happier about new situations when we know the boundaries. 
  
  
• Changes in Behaviour
  Where there are new challenges there will undoubtedly be some changes in behaviour. This can be difficult for everyone to deal with. Knowing that it's coming and why it's happening can be really helpful for both parents and children. Be prepared for some tantrums/tears and try to be patient with them. 
  
  
• The 'Stuff'
  There is always a lot of shopping to be done just before a new term starts and moving up to secondary school is no exception. Make a list together and only buy the essentials - their bag will weigh enough without carrying around unnecessary items!
  
  
• Oyster and Phone
  If your child will be travelling by bus, make sure they have their Oyster card organised in advance and that they know how to use it. If they don't have a phone, and you are concerned about being able to communicate with them on the journey to and from school, this could be the time to consider buying one. There are lots of ways to limit what is spent on a phone and to monitor what it's used for. It is also a good idea to research the school rules about phones and to make sure your child is fully aware of these.
  
  
• Support from School
  Schools will be working with the year 6 cohorts to help prepare them for the changes ahead and will be able to support you and your child. Secondary teachers may also visit your child's school to talk to them about the new start. Home school support officers will help with questions about free school meals etc.
  
  
• Useful Links
  Click here for access the BBC Bitesize transition materials.
  Click here for links to the Havering website with videos and worksheets to support transition to year 7
  
  
• Make a list
  There will be lots for you to do before the start of term. Source school uniform, fill out all the forms (there will be many), arrange payments for school meals etc and label EVERYTHING!
  
  
• Money Money Money
  We know that school uniform is one of the most expensive purchases. If you are buying new, buy it a bit too big so that it lasts the year. Everyone starts off in blazers that are too big so they will look just like everyone else! Investigate if the school has a second hand uniform shop. This is a great way to get 'spares' or extra bits and pieces. It's a good idea to have some extra bits for PE!
  
  
• Build your new network
  It's more difficult to make connections with parents in the secondary school setting as the children often travel there independently but it's a good idea to try and make some connections with form tutors, parents association (PTA) and new parents if possible. You will be glad to have those connections for the inevitable questions about homework and after school clubs etc
  
  
• Relax
  There's a good chance that your child will take it all in their stride and never look back!

Good Luck to everyone!