Starting A New School

Whether it’s going to a new school or moving from primary to secondary school, change can be hard. Everyone finds it difficult at first; new faces, new places and maybe many different subjects and lessons that you aren’t familiar with. We all have to go through this at some stage. Even parents can feel nervous if they are starting a new job, or your older brother or sister might be nervous joining a new club or going to college.

One of the best ways to make an easier transition to a new place is to try and be as calm as possible and talk to other people. If you aren’t sure what to speak about, look around you. Everything in school, be it teachers, classmates and subjects are all things you have in common with your classmates. Remember, a new school gives you the chance to make lots of new friends.

It’s natural to have all kinds of different feelings and emotions when starting a new school. You might miss your old school and friends. You might feel nervous, anxious, worried, scared, excited or happy. You have the right to speak to someone you trust about what you are going through.

With a new school you may be learning new subjects, which can be tricky at first. Remember that the teacher is always there to help you with anything you don’t understand. We know it's not always easy to talk to a teacher, so it's important you know you can talk to us here in Childline and we can try to help you figure out what you'd like to do. Give us a ring on 1800 66 66 66 or send us a message in the Talk To Us section here on the website.