Transition & Induction
Transition
For any queries regarding transition, please email yr6.transition@thirskschool.org
At Thirsk we believe that a smooth transition from primary school to secondary is vitally important to students’ well-being and progress going forward and as such we need to get it right.
Some students find it remarkably easy, others not so, but as parents you need to know that your child will receive a huge amount of support, and despite dealing with large numbers of students the Lower School Pastoral Team will manage this efficiently and effectively.
Our transition process actually begins in years 3 & 4 with a varied programme of primary school sport competitions delivered through the vehicle of the School Games. This is organized and managed by our on-site School Games Organiser Duncan Burgess. As part of this programme, your child will be given plenty of opportunities to participate in sporting events at Thirsk School & Sixth Form College, allowing them to become familiar with the school environment to help build confidence and a sense of belonging. Competitions are officiated and managed by a successful team of Young Leaders from the secondary school providing positive role models for your children and fostering a real team ethos.
For more information on Primary School Sport contact our SGO Duncan Burgess at duncan.burgess@thirskschool.org
During Year 5 we also provide 2 Enrichment Days for all our feeder primaries where the children are invited to spend the day in school participating in a range of taster activities such as Drama, Food Technology, Music and Team Building. This allows them to meet a range of key staff and experience a ‘day in the life’ of a Thirsk School & Sixth Form College student.
Year 6 Induction
Prior to our full week of Induction, the Head of Lower School will visit every Year 6 pupil in their own school around Easter and provide an introductory session on what to expect from their induction process. This will be followed up with an information gathering session from our SENDCO Mrs R Elliott and a talk from the Head of Year. Mrs Elliott will also arrange for any additional visits/transition activities at parents’ request.
In July the Year 6 pupils join us for a week where they meet their form tutor and participate in a typical secondary school timetable, helping to further prepare them for their new start in September. We find that this week is invaluable in helping to allay any worries or anxiety they might have at this pivotal point in their education.
The amount of time energy and effort we invest in your children is deliberate. We think it is imperative that they are familiar with the school and its environment and have met the staff, as that can lift barriers and help them to feel settled and at home here as quickly as possible.
For further information regarding Transition and Induction please contact the Head of Lower School Miss J Marston at jo.marston@thirskschool.org.
A message from Miss Marston, Head of Lower School
