Secondary School is full of anticipation and expectations

• more friends
• new subjects
• new buildings
• new teachers
• more of a challenge

but there are worries too. Commonly these are about:

• being late or lost
• having the right book or equipment for the right lesson
• friends
• homework
• not knowing what to do if there is a problem
• not being able to do the work
• getting into trouble
• the coach journey /walk alone

Thus the worries divide into two groups.

Social worries
Remind them that this is a new experience for all of them. Even girls who come from the same school initially will change and make new friends. By the end of the first two weeks the worry about making a friend should have faded. Be prepared that, for some, concerns may continue for longer – even many months. Some girls quite naturally miss their old schools, their teachers, friends and being at the top. Give them time to adjust and do not be over anxious too soon.

Organisational worries
Habits and routines learned in Year 7 will last throughout their schooling.
Your help and interest initially will be a good support.

However keep in mind the advice of Educational Psychologist Julie Casey -

Never do anything regularly for your children that they are capable of doing for themselves