13/08/2025

Helping Your Child Transition from Primary to Secondary School: A Guide for Parents

Moving from primary to secondary school is a huge milestone – for children and parents. It’s an exciting time full of new opportunities: new friends, subjects, teachers, and independence. But along with the excitement, it’s perfectly normal for both children and parents to feel a bit nervous.

Your child might be wondering how they’ll find their way around a bigger school, whether they’ll make friends, or how they’ll cope with homework. You might be wondering how to best support them while also adjusting to a new school routine yourself.

The good news? With some preparation and gentle support, this transition can be a positive, confidence-building experience. Here are some practical tips for both children and parents to help make the move as smooth as possible.

Supporting Your Child Through the Transition

1. Open dialogue

Talk about what’s ahead – and listen to their concerns.Encourage open conversations about starting secondary school. Ask what they’re excited about and what’s worrying them. Sometimes just knowing that their feelings are normal can make a big difference.

2. Visit the school (if possible)

Most schools offer induction days or open evenings – make the most of these. Walk around the site, check where important rooms are, and meet key staff. If visits aren’t possible, explore the school website together.

3. Practise the journey

Whether your child will be walking, cycling, or taking the bus, do a few practice runs before term starts. This builds confidence and helps avoid first-day travel stress.

4. Encourage organisation skills early

Secondary school usually means more homework, different classrooms, and multiple teachers. Start getting your child used to packing their bag the night before, keeping track of timetables, and managing homework deadlines.

5. Build independence – gradually

Let them take on small responsibilities at home, like making their own lunch or keeping track of their PE kit. These skills transfer well to the independence expected in secondary school.

6. Keep friendships in perspective

Friendship groups often shift in the first year. Reassure your child it’s normal to make new friends and lose touch with some old ones – and that it’s part of growing up.

Practical Advice for Parents

1. Keep communication open – without hovering

It’s important to show interest in their day, but avoid interrogating. Gentle, open-ended questions work better than “What did you do today?”

2. Stay in touch with the school

Familiarise yourself with the school’s communication channels – newsletters, parent portals, or apps – so you can keep on top of key dates and events.

3. Support healthy routines

Sleep, nutrition, and downtime are essential for coping with a bigger workload. Try to keep a consistent bedtime and encourage time away from screens in the evening.

4. Encourage problem-solving

When your child faces a challenge – like a tricky homework task or a friendship wobble – guide them to think of possible solutions rather than jumping in with the answer straight away. This builds resilience.

5. Don’t compare them to others

Every child adjusts at their own pace. Avoid comparing your child to siblings or friends – focus on their personal progress and strengths.

Final Thoughts

Starting secondary school is a major life step, and it’s normal for it to take time for everyone to adjust. Your child may have days when they come home buzzing with stories, and others when they’re quiet or frustrated. Patience, reassurance, and a steady routine go a long way.

By showing that you believe in their ability to adapt, while offering a safe and supportive home base, you’re giving them the best start in their new chapter. And remember – it’s a learning journey for parents too!

Good luck to all children who are moving up from primary to secondary school (and their parents), let the next chapter begin!