The first big milestone and change in a child’s school journey happens when they leave Year 6 and primary school behind to move to secondary school. It marks a period of social, emotional and academic change that affects every area of your teen’s life. Transitioning from primary school can be both exciting and overwhelming for young people, and as parents and carers, your guidance can make a world of difference.

Understanding developmental changes

The transition to high school coincides with a crucial and tumultuous stage of development. In the beginning of puberty, typically between the ages of 11 and 13, they’re just beginning to experience big hormonal changes and rapid cognitive, social and emotional growth. They begin forming stronger personal identities, seeking more independence while still requiring guidance and support. Emotionally, they might be particularly sensitive to peer relationships and social dynamics. Understanding these changes can help parents and carers provide the right balance of structure, encouragement, and reassurance.

Cognitive growth: Children begin to develop abstract thinking, problem-solving, and the ability to reflect on their own learning. They also become more capable of planning and setting goals, although executive functioning is still emerging.

Social shifts: Peer relationships become increasingly influential. Friendships deepen, and peer acceptance becomes a strong motivator. Children may become more self-conscious or sensitive to how others perceive them.

Emotional regulation: Emotional ups and downs are common as hormonal changes accelerate. Children may experience heightened anxiety, frustration, or mood swings, especially in response to new challenges.

Identity formation: Young adolescents begin exploring their personal values, interests, and sense of self. They may question authority more often and seek greater autonomy from parents and teachers.

Tips for a smooth transition to secondary school

Plan ahead and get to know the new school environment

Unknown environments can feel daunting to your child, and helping your child get to know their new school well before the start of the year can ease anxiety.

Rather than waiting until the new school year begins, initiate discussions months in advance and ask open-ended questions like:

  • “What are you most looking forward to about Year 7?”

  • “Is there anything you’re nervous about?”

  • “What do you think will be different, and how can we prepare together?”

Remind your child that it's okay to feel nervous, uncertain, or even sad about leaving behind their familiar world. Validate their emotions, share your own experiences, and reassure them that many others feel the same way. Teaching them mindfulness or breathing techniques can be helpful tools for managing anxiety.

At Toorak College, we offer many opportunities for students and families to familiarise themselves with the school before they enrol or start their journey with us. Our 'Try for a Day' sessions usually run twice per term for both primary and secondary school students. These sessions allow students to step into their current year level and experience a full school day with their cohort, without needing to have an enrolment application submitted.

We also offer small group tours with our Head of Senior School twice per term, providing a semi-private tour experience for a few families at a time. For those who’d prefer a bigger introduction, our Open Day events take place once per term, featuring a presentation from the Principal, a meet-and-greet with senior school staff, and a tour led by our current students.

Openly talk about their expectations and worries, and offer emotional support

Transitioning from Year 6 to 7 doesn’t just mean a change in environment, but change in teachers, friends, and routines. It’s important for your child to have a safe space to talk about their anxieties and feelings about new people and expectations. Encourage open conversations, and reinforce that feeling nervous or uncertain is completely normal. Acknowledging these emotions helps children feel more comfortable as they adapt to their new environment.

Encourage independence and build on their organisational skills

The transition to secondary school often comes with increased responsibilities, and encouraging your child to take ownership of their school life will foster confidence and resilience.

To set them up for success, help them familiarise with everything they’ll need in their new routines: bus timetables, the school layout, and any necessary supplies. Encourage your child to pack their own bag each night and talk with your child about time management, how to use a planner, and strategies for keeping track of homework. Each small act of independence builds resilience and self-efficacy.

New environments, multiple teachers, and varied expectations can overwhelm even high-achieving students, so helping your child build a toolkit of strategies will help set them up for success. Things like colour-coded folders or digital folders by subject, daily checklists to track tasks and a quiet, distraction-free study zone at home are all important in ensuring your child feels organised and well prepared.

Help them build social confidence

Positive transitions happen more smoothly when children feel a sense of belonging. But new friends and social circles are one of the biggest changes for your child in the journey from primary school to high school — especially if they’re starting school in a new area or if their existing friends end up in different schools. If your child feels anxious about socialising, encourage them to join co-curricular activities where they can meet peers with similar interests. Toorak College offers lots of activities, from different sports to music and performing arts, to help your child explore their interests, while being a part of a supportive social environment.

Establish a good routine

A predictable routine helps children feel secure in their new environment. Set consistent bedtimes, morning routines, and homework schedules (not too late in the evening when energy and concentration is low) to create stability. Downtime routines such as family dinners, weekend walks to foster connection and reflection are also important. If your child is taking public transport for the first time, practise the route with them to boost their confidence.

How Toorak College supports the Year 6 to 7 transition

Building a strong relationship with your child’s school is essential to support students through this change. To help students feel at ease, we offer a range of immersive orientation and transition initiatives designed to build connections and create a supportive environment.

Peer-Led Connection Initiatives

Each year, our Year 9 students host a "Connect" event for our Year 6 and Year 7 students on campus. This event is designed to familiarise them with the Senior School and foster cross-year level friendships. The day is all about fun and celebration, featuring activities like colour runs, cupcake making, photo booths, obstacle courses, and dance parties.

Discovery and Induction

Additionally, our "Discovery Day" is held the year prior to commencement, allowing all new Year 7 students to spend a day getting to know the Senior School, meeting their tutors, and connecting with their cohort.

We also host parent information sessions which help educate and prepare parents with what to expect when their child starts Senior School. This evening is run by our senior teaching staff members along with our Principal and Head of Senior School.

If you’d like more information about our junior or senior school enrolments, get in touch with our team to enquire and organise a visit.

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