The Secondary School 'Dip'
There has been extensive research into what is commonly referred to as the Secondary School ‘Dip’. As students begin Secondary School there can sometimes be an apparent fall in attainment. This isn’t to say the learning content changes or accelerates dramatically, it is to do with the language of learning. In Primary School the class teacher delivers the majority of the curriculum which the help of some specialists such as PE and Modern Foreign Languages. In Secondary School, all teachers are specialists in their subject. They will use a greater variety of subject specific language coupled with new subjects that some primary students have experienced before. When we considered the amount of change occurring it is only natural to experience a short ‘dip’ in attainment. To counteract this ‘dip’ why not ask your new school for some summer reading. Reading is a fantastic way to expose your child to new vocabulary and terminology, it is also an excellent way to relax and disconnect from devices.
Organisation
With so many new clubs, activities and subjects it can sometimes be a little overwhelming. Each school will have a unique timetable. This timetable may even be slightly different for students in the same class due to setting in different subjects and Modern Foreign Language choices. Lots of students worry about keeping up with the workload and extra homework. There is no magic wand to finding your next class and completing homework in secondary school, however, the more organised your child is the easier they will cope with the increased demands of their time. Secondary School is a microcosm of society. You have leisure activities, you socialise with different groups of friends, you have to meet deadlines and you need to be punctual. Being organised will make transition easier. Get multiple copies of the timetable; one for the school diary, one for the student locker (if applicable) one for the fridge at home and one for their bedroom. Don’t forget to take a picture of it also! Get your equipment and school bag ready the night before. Highlight your lessons where you need extra equipment such as PE, Swimming Drama or Music and made sure you have those extra bags packed. As a parent check your child’s school diary to ensure they are recording their homework, making to do lists and completing all work set. If they know you will check it every Sunday evening they will keep it up to date and they will be organised. If you don’t regularly check the diary you are mirroring poor behaviour so make sure you stay organised too.
Lastly, remember we want for your child to settle quickly into secondary school life, having fun while developing as learners and leaders in a dynamic and challenging environment. Lean on us for advice and feel confident knowing that all our schools have a great deal of support in place for students moving into secondary school.
We look forward to welcoming our existing and new students to their year 7 class after the summer break!