Ensuring a smooth transition

Moving from primary to secondary school can mean anxiety and worry for most young people as they adapt to the challenges of secondary school. It's important to prepare year 6 students in advance to make sure they settle in quickly and avoid losing progress made at primary school.

Working in partnership with the Norwich Opportunity Area and school staff, this summer we developed transition resources for schools which tackle students' common concerns before and after transition, including issues about getting lost, homework and losing old friends. They're designed to include teachers and parents and carers in the transition activities and are designed to be started in year 6 and finished in year 7.

Parents and carers are key influencers in students' transition to secondary school so our resources invite them to discuss preparations and common concerns. We encourage chats about being more independent, doing homework, new school timetables and interacting with different peer groups.

Year 6: 'My Journey to Secondary School'

These resources prepare students for their move to secondary and include a:

• 3 minute introductory animation

• Digital and downloadable interactive workbook (this can be printed on request)

Year 7: Have you ever wondered - 'How to Succeed at Secondary School'

These resources help students adjust to the challenges of secondary school and include a:

• 5 minute video talking through the 5 top tips for succeeding at secondary school

• 40 minute interactive workshop on how to make a successful start, how to be prepared and organised and opportunities to talk about worries and concerns so far

Year 7: Have you ever wondered - 'What study skills are needed in Year 7'

These resources give handy advice on using study skills effectively and include a:

• 40 minute interactive workshop on organising themselves, learning styles, motivation, study spaces as well as speaking and listening

During Covid-19 restrictions, we're being flexible as possible in the delivery of these talks and workshops - we can join your classroom virtually and run activities that way, provide pre-recorded sessions or lesson plans for you to work through the activities without us.

Think there is something we can help with? Get in touch and chat with our team, either via your Outreach Officer or schoolsoutreach@uea.ac.uk