At the age of 11 years, children in many school systems transition from primary to secondary school. In most countries worldwide it has been depicted as “one of the most difficult in a pupil's educational careers”( Zeedyk et al., 2003) and a crucial stage in a young adolescent's life .The students are not only changing and growing in remarkable ways but also transitioning to a new phase in their education with much “diversity” both in academic curriculum and social settings . This transition symbolizes a significant life event characterized by various changes not just in the physical school environment, but also in academic rigor and social relations This change also corresponds to the onset of physical and emotional changes associated with puberty, making it one of the most challenging and exciting transitions.
At BCB, we recognize the importance of a smooth transition despite the numerous challenges of hybrid school and social isolation, thanks to the pandemic. The transition program was designed and implemented keeping our students and their families wellbeing in mind. Coffee morning with parents kickstarted the program that shared what strategies we were putting in place and what parents can do to support transition to secondary. Some important steps parents can take are:
Create a quiet study area
Pin up the timetable/ schedule on the door
Monitor social media/ computer use
Encourage reading and dinner table discussions
Check emails regularly
Attend coffee mornings/informational sessions
This session was followed by a unique ‘taster week’ wherein year 6 students had a virtual taste of how teaching and learning happened across various academic subjects and PSHE . An informal session with Y6 students is scheduled to answer all student concerns while behind the scenes, Year 6 teachers have been meeting with secondary leadership to discuss each student's academic and pastoral reports to complete the handover.
Access to information is crucial to a smooth anxiety free transition and so, the e-guide was launched. My favorite section in the e-guide is the virtual tour of the school by the lovely Year 9 students. Check it out @ transition e-guide. Easily accessible on mobile phones, ipads and laptops, families and students can get all the information they need about secondary school in order to get ready for the next adventure in their lives!
Times of transition can be strenuous, but are also wonderful new beginnings and opportunities. I agree with Kristin Armstrong who says, “ They are an opportunity to purge, rethink priorities, and be intentional about new habits.” What do you think?
