03 AUGUST 2026
In this article, Bridgitte Calder, Clinical Director from our Group, shares her practical top tips for supporting your child’s transition from primary school to secondary school.
4 minute read
Starting high school: Preparing for a positive transition
For many SEN children, starting high school can feel exciting but also incredibly daunting. A new environment, unfamiliar faces, different routines and new expectations can bring lots of uncertainty and anxiety, particularly when they don’t know what to expect.
Feeling nervous about such a big change is completely understandable. The good news is that there are simple ways you can help your child feel more prepared, reassured and confident before September. A little preparation over the summer can help make the transition feel less overwhelming and that first day a little easier.
Start talking about school early
Rather than waiting until the final few days of the holidays, begin introducing the idea of returning to school a little earlier than you might think.
Have calm, positive conversations about what the new term will look like and remind your child of the things they enjoy about school. Gradually introducing the topic helps make the transition feel more manageable, rather than something that suddenly arrives at the end of the holidays.
Towards the latter part of the summer break, you might also introduce a simple countdown using a calendar or visual timetable. Crossing off the days or weeks together can help children understand when school is returning and prepare for the change in routine.
Rehearse the routine
Practising everyday routines before the first day back can help reduce uncertainty and build confidence.
In the days leading up to the new term, try practising:
Getting up at the usual school time.
Getting dressed and ready for the day.
Packing their school bag.
Following the journey to school if it's a new setting.
If your child is starting at a new school, look for opportunities to familiarise them with the environment. Viewing photographs of the building, classrooms and staff, or driving or walking the route to school, can help make the experience feel more predictable and less overwhelming.
Use visual supports
Many children benefit from visual information to help them understand what to expect.
A social story can be an effective way to explain what the first day of school might involve, including who they will meet, what the classroom may look like and how the day is likely to unfold.
Visual supports help make abstract ideas more concrete, giving children time to process information and reducing anxiety around the unknown.
Work together with school
If you're concerned that your child may find the return to school particularly difficult, don't wait until the first day to let the school know.
Sharing your concerns in advance allows staff to plan appropriate support and ensure your child feels welcomed and understood from the moment they arrive.
Every child experiences transitions differently, and there is no one-size-fits-all approach. By working in partnership with school and preparing gradually over the summer, you can help make the return to education a more positive and successful experience.
Setting the year up for success
School plays an important role in every child's development and wellbeing. Taking small, practical steps to prepare for the transition back to school can help reduce anxiety, build confidence and give children the strongest possible start to the new academic year.