At Woldgate School, we believe that a successful transition begins with knowing the child behind the school place: their strengths, interests, friendships, ambitions and the things that may worry them.
Our commitment to ensuring that every child is known and cared for as an individual begins before they join us. By listening to children, families and primary staff, we build a picture of each pupil and plan how best to support their learning and wellbeing.
Listening to your child
Our welcome pack includes a ‘Getting to know me’ form, giving your child an opportunity to tell us about themselves in their own words. We want to know what they enjoy, what they feel proud of, what they are looking forward to and where they might need reassurance.
Their voice matters. Understanding what helps your child feel comfortable allows us to begin building positive relationships before September.
Understanding friendships
Our friendship form invites pupils to name up to three children they already know and would feel comfortable with. These friends may attend the same primary school or a different one.
We consider these preferences carefully alongside information from primary staff and each child’s individual needs when planning groupings. Although we cannot guarantee particular placements, the information helps us make thoughtful decisions. We ask that friendship choices remain private so that no child feels excluded.
The form also helps us identify pupils joining without familiar classmates, those arriving in smaller groups and children who would welcome support with meeting others. This allows us to plan introductions, transition activities and additional reassurance where needed.
Working closely with primary schools
Our transition team visits primary schools and speaks with Year 6 staff about pupils’ achievements, learning needs and wellbeing. We value the knowledge and care that primary colleagues bring, including their understanding of the approaches that help each child thrive.
This partnership helps us build on your child’s progress and prepare appropriate support from the outset.
Working in partnership with you
You know your child best. We welcome information about their interests, confidence, friendships, health and any additional needs. Please tell us about successful strategies, previous difficulties or concerns about the move to secondary school.
For pupils who need additional support, our transition, SEND and pastoral teams work with families and primary staff to agree personalised arrangements. These may include quieter visits, peer mentoring or a key member of staff who can offer a familiar point of contact.
Continuing to listen in Year 7
Getting to know your child continues after they arrive. Form tutors, teachers and our Care and Achievement team help pupils settle, build relationships and take part in school life.
If a worry arises, you do not need to wait for a parents’ evening to contact us. By keeping communication open, we can respond early and help your child feel confident, valued and ready to flourish at Woldgate School.