As the school year returns for 2024, the transition from primary to secondary school is a significant step in a child’s education. Around 53,000 Australian students will start Year 7 this year and Education Secretary Murat Dizdar encourages a seamless shift for Year 7 students by starting preparations ahead of time. 

Here are ten top tips for starting high school:

1. Purchase all supplies such as uniforms and stationery – break in new school shoes 
2. Practise public transport, driving and walking routes to school  
3. Encourage your child to be organised, set goals, seek support and be resilient  
4. Use the family fridge for timetables and important dates  
5. Choose a designated homework space for study  
6. Don’t let phones and devices interrupt homework and family time  
7. Pack the night before school starts and get a good night’s sleep  
8. Check in after school with open-ended questions about the day  
9. Reassure your child that their family and teachers are there to support them  
10. Remember, Year 7 is a partnership between students, families and schools. Stay in touch

There’s two weeks to go until the first term commences and Dizdar emphasised the importance of attendance and engagement. “Every day at school matters to the education and life outcomes of our young people. We ask families to support our schools and ensure their children develop good attendance habits.”

Preparation is key, by ensuring aspects such as transport, uniforms, and study spaces are organised you give your child the best chance for a smooth transition. Parents are encouraged to familiarise themselves with their child’s school and foster a sense of excitement for the school year. 

Parents can organise transport for their children through Transport for NSW to obtain school travel passes or school Opal cards. Additionally purchasing items from the school equipment and book lists and having an organisational system in place will also help your child feel prepared. 

It is normal for children to feel nervous but beginning to build strong habits during the holidays will help to ease the stress of the change.  As the countdown to the first day of school begins, the focus turns to organisational skills, limiting device use, and preparing the essentials. 

“I wish the Year 7 class of ‘24 a fun and engaging year of learning and wellbeing growth,” said Dizdar.