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To Sam

Moving schools

Lots of kids move schools in september is there any way to deal

With the stress of it becuase going ito my new school all i know is that we line up outsdie on the first day thats all i know so im a but anxioes on whats happening the rest if the day

Ask Sam

Sam

Hi there,

There are lots of different reasons for moving school, like going to secondary school, moving to a new area or going into care.  Whatever the reason, it can sometimes feel scary and stressful or you might feel excited about starting something new.

If you’re moving to secondary school it can help to remember that everyone in your year will be new to the school. It’s likely that they’ll have similar worries and anxieties about moving school and what happens on the first day.  Whatever’s worrying you, remember there are ways to cope.

Planning ahead can help you feel more confident on your first day. A few weeks before you start is a good time to get things ready, so you’ll have time to pick up anything that’s missing. Plan what time to get up, what you’ll do for lunch and work out your route to school including your bus or train times. You could aim to arrive at least 10 minutes early so you don’t feel rushed.

If you’ve visited the school and met your form teacher or head of year, you’ll have an idea of where things are and familiar faces to look out for. When you’re learning how things work, it’s okay to ask for help if you’re not sure where to go or what to do. It takes time to adjust and settle into new surroundings and new routines so don’t put pressure on yourself to know everything straight away.

On your first day you’ll be told where to go and what to do. Look out for signs by the school gate or entrance and for teachers who can help you. If you know someone else who’s starting too, even if you’re in different forms, you could arrange to go together so you’re both not alone. Having older siblings or neighbours at the school might help you feel less anxious - you could ask them to look out for you at school. They could tell you more about what to expect, like what happened on their first day and how to find your way around.

Your form tutor will give you your timetable, information about school rules and anything else you need to know. There might be activities for your class to get to know each other and a tour around the school. It’s okay to ask questions about anything you’re unsure about.

Remember: a new school is also an opportunity to meet new friends.  However you’re feeling it’s always good to talk about it with a friend, your parents or carers or a Childline counsellor. You can also check out the Childline message boards to find out how other young people have coped.

Thank you for your letter.

Take care,

Sam

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