This is a very exciting time for all our 6th class girls and boys as they prepare to move to secondary school. There are a lot of things to look forward to; new subjects, new friends, new teachers and new experiences. It can also be a time when you might have some worries and lots of ‘what ifs’ might pop into your head.
Some common what if's are:
Our brain loves to focus on the negative. This is called the negativity bias and it is just the way our brains are wired! Think about it, you never worry that you might make lots of lovely new friends or that you might settle into secondary school really quickly!! Remember we all adapt to change in different ways. For some it could take a few days, others a few weeks or even months to settle in. Remember no one expects you to know everything in your first term. All first years are in the same situation as you. Don’t be afraid to ask for help if you need it. They are plenty of students and teachers that are more than happy to help.
Check out this Mind the Gap video. It might answer some of your questions about secondary school.
Some common what if's are:
- what if I get lost on my way to class?
- what if I don’t make friends?
- what if I get into trouble?
- what if I forget my books?
- what if I lose my locker key?
- what if I can’t do the work?
- what if the homework is too hard?
Our brain loves to focus on the negative. This is called the negativity bias and it is just the way our brains are wired! Think about it, you never worry that you might make lots of lovely new friends or that you might settle into secondary school really quickly!! Remember we all adapt to change in different ways. For some it could take a few days, others a few weeks or even months to settle in. Remember no one expects you to know everything in your first term. All first years are in the same situation as you. Don’t be afraid to ask for help if you need it. They are plenty of students and teachers that are more than happy to help.
Check out this Mind the Gap video. It might answer some of your questions about secondary school.
Here are some activities/resource sheets you might like to do at home over the next few weeks with a family member. You do not need to know all the answers as everything will be explained to you in your new school in September. (These resources are guidelines only). Click here to download.
Another great resource to prepare you for the transition to secondary school is Big Fish to Little Fish.
Check out the websites of the secondary schools you will be attending. Each website will offer you information on your new school.
Remember it is normal to have worries, everybody does. Don’t waste all your time NOW worrying about something in the future. Things will make a lot more sense when you are in your new school. With all new phases in your life there will be excitement and apprehension. A positive attitude can really help, try and focus on something you are looking forward to in your new school and think about that.