Share as much information as possible with the students

Firstly, children appreciate transparency just as much as adults do. On their first day, simply be open about how things work, what their daily routine is going to be and what to expect from the coming year. This will help children who are feeling anxious about the unknown to feel more settled. Offer a question time as well, where children can ask anything they would like. Be clear that no question is a stupid question, as this will help students who may have been shy to put their hands up to ask their questions.

Ease their fears

Students tend to have the same anxieties when starting secondary school. These anxieties tend to revolve around getting lost, finding the toilets, how to get their lunch and making new friends. By opening speaking about these anxieties straight away, you can help students to feel at ease and like they are not alone with their worries. In addition, a big change students will face is the vast increase of teachers from primary to secondary school. It is a great idea to openly speak to the children about the different teachers and roles within the school.  From the head of the year to library staff to pastoral care, they need to have a clear understanding of which adult would be best to approach for different issues.

Stay calm & collected

As a secondary school teacher, it is important to not panic on the first day, especially if a student is to cry. It is highly likely that this will be the case, so try to go into the day with a positive mindset. Students may also struggle with factors such as their new uniform or carrying money for the first time. Whilst this may seem chaotic on the first day after the first week they will settle into the new practices and things will ease off. As a secondary school teacher, it is essential to stay calm throughout these first chaotic few days and accept that things will go wrong and not show signs of anger when things get tough as this could draw back students even further from settling in.

Final Thoughts

Whilst the transition of year 7’s entering secondary school can at first feel overwhelming, as a secondary school teacher it is important to prepare for the first week of chaos, and remain calm and collected, with a plan of action in place to help students settle in the best they can.