Transition to high school
Starting high school is an exciting milestone for students and families. Moving from Year 6 to Year 7 can feel like a big change. We help every child feel confident and supported during the transition to high school.
Find out more in the Getting ready for high school guide.
What to expect in high school
High school brings new experiences and routines, including:
- a larger school with more subjects, teachers and classrooms
- a timetable with different lessons each day
- moving between classrooms and carrying books and equipment
- more independence and responsibility for homework and study
- new friendships and opportunities to join activities and clubs.
Before your child starts Year 7
Enrolment interview
Before your child begins, families may be asked to meet with our principal. This is a time to share:
- medical conditions or allergies
- family circumstances that may affect your child’s start
- any learning or wellbeing needs.
We will also explain the supports our school provides, such as:
- support for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students through personalised learning pathways
- extra support for students learning English as an additional language or dialect (EAL/D)
- support for students with disability or other learning needs through inclusive education programs.
Learn more about additional learning support and enrolment requirements at our school.
Transition programs
We work closely with Tweed River High School to help students feel ready for the next step in their learning journey. Transition programs and activities include students from Year 4 to Year 6. Activities include:
- orientation days and school tours
- parent information sessions and meet the teacher events
- subject tasters
- high school staff conducting sessions at our school in specialist areas
Students, parents and carers can join these sessions to learn about daily schedules, uniforms, lunches and communication. If you need an interpreter, let us know.
Bucket Drumming
Our Year 6 students had the opportunity to participate in a Bucket Drumming program, led by a music teacher from Tweed River High School as part of their transition support initiative. Students learned a variety of drumming patterns for several songs and were given valuable opportunities to perform both at our school and at Tweed River High, helping to build their confidence and connections ahead of starting high school.
Tweed River High School Visit
Our Stage 3 students were recently visited by representatives from Tweed River High School to learn about their exciting Sports Development Program. Students discovered the incredible opportunities available in basketball, soccer, rugby league, netball, surfing, touch football, volleyball, and dance. They also heard about the chance to train with professional coaches and represent TRHS in various competitions.
Year 5 Taster Day
Year 5 had an amazing day at Tweed River High School’s STEM Taster Day! Students explored a variety of exciting activities, including marine studies, agriculture, solar boat building, chemistry experiments, Micro:bit coding, and using technology in music. It was a fantastic experience filled with fun and learning.
Year 4 Taster Day
Year 4 had an exciting Taster Day at Tweed River High School, where students eagerly explored the Creative Arts Faculty, focusing mainly on music and art. They enjoyed hands-on experiences with a variety of musical instruments, experimented with music technology, and participated in art activities that sparked their creativity. It was a fun and inspiring day that gave them a wonderful glimpse into the vibrant arts programs available at Tweed River.
Balunjahli Culture
Balunjahli Culture is a transition program for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Year 6 students from all primary schools that feed into Tweed River High School. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students at TRHS mentor the Year 6 students, helping them build connections and feel welcomed before starting high school. Together, they explore and celebrate Bundjalung language and culture, fostering a strong sense of identity, community, and cultural pride.
Getting ready at home
You can help your child prepare by:
- talking positively about starting high school
- buying uniforms, shoes, stationery and school supplies
- checking if a laptop or device is needed
- practising their travel route to school
- making sure they know your phone number and emergency contacts
- encouraging routines such as packing their school bag
- encouraging them to check their timetable and school bell times the night before day 1 of Term 1.
For more advice, see the Getting ready for high school guide.