Helping your child move to a new school

Changing school can be an exciting but challenging time for every young person. Every child is different, so choose ideas that work best for your family. These skills take time to learn, so practice and patience really matter. 

What can be difficult? 

Many children and young people find change hard, especially when they don’t know what to expect. A child might struggle because:  

• They find it hard to manage big feelings like stress and anxiety 

• The new environment is overwhelming - bright lights, loud noise, heat, crowds or lots of activity 

• They don’t yet understand the rules or routines of the new school 

• They find communication difficult or struggle to express themselves 

Top tips for the transition 

• Use a countdown calendar. Mark off each day together so they can see when the change is coming.  

• Look up the new school online. Explore photos, videos and information so the environment feels more familiar. Transition days offered by the school can also help.  

• Get the timetable early if possible. Help your child learn how to read it. Colour coding subjects can make it easier to understand.  

• Make a visual schedule for daily routines. This helps your child know what to expect. Let them help create it so they feel more in control.   

• Think about what helps your child to calm down during transitions, such as holding a favourite item or fidget toy.  

Ideas for activities to help your child prepare 

• Create a school zone at home. Keep school items in one place so they’re easy to find. Keep a copy of the timetable there as well. 

• Use colour coded folders or wallets. For example, red for maths, blue for science. This helps with organisation and packing their bag.   

• Try on new uniform early. This helps them get used to how it feels. 

• Practise changing for PE at home. This can make it easier when they have to do it quickly in a busy school environment.  

• Practise the journey to school. Walking or driving the route helps them know what to expect.  

• Plan an afterschool routine. A walk home, some fresh air or a relaxing activity can help them unwind after a busy day.  

If you are worried about your child moving to a new school, speak to their class teacher or ALNCo (Additional Learning Needs Coordinator). They can help arrange extra transition visits and decide whether more support is needed.