Transition
We know moving from primary to secondary school can be daunting. So much change, with new people, a new environment and all new rules and routines to manage. However, it is also an exciting time and we are delighted that you have chosen Baysgarth as your secondary school and we have lots of activities and events planned, so that by the time September comes everyone will feel comfortable and ready for the journey ahead.
We have a dedicated transition team which includes senior staff, inclusion staff, safeguarding leads and SEND specialists. Collectively they work to ensure that every incoming student has a smooth, positive, and reassuring experience in joining Baysgarth, ensuring all students and their families:
- Build a sense of familiarity with staff and their peers
- Gain confidence with navigating the building
- Build relationships with key staff, recognising names and faces of senior staff
- Feel a sense of belonging and excitement about their new school
- Understand how the school routines and school day works
- Can access key information such as uniform and equipment lists easily
Transition Timeline
Transition starts as soon as you receive your confirmation letter and we will keep in contact with you right through until September, as from this point you are a Baysgarth student.
Enhanced Transition
We recognise that some students require an extra layer of reassurance and familiarisation
before making the big leap. Our Enhanced Transition program is designed for students with
SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities), or those who are the only child coming from their primary school.
What it looks like:
- Extra small-group visits to the school when the building is quieter.
- Early, informal meetings with our learning support team.
- Extra SEND Youth Club and earlier arrival to main youth clubs.
Contact Information: If you feel your child would benefit from an Enhanced Transition package, or if you have specific inclusion questions, please contact our Special Educational Needs Coordinator (SENCo) at senco@school.sch.uk or call the main office requesting the Transition Inclusion Team.
Digital Connection:
The Google Classroom
Launching in May, the Transition Google Classroom serves as our central digital hub for incoming students. It provides a safe space where students can:
- Watch videos and "Get to Know" clips from Key members of staff including Head of Year, Heads of House.
- Access light, challenges and quizzes to familiarize themselves with school life.
- Access our Audio books read by staff members.
Social & Familiarization Events:
Transition Youth Club
Running across select evenings in June, this informal, activity-based club allows students from different primary schools to mix, make friends, and complete fun activities with our staff.
Transition Day
A crucial milestone at the end of June/beginning of July where all incoming primary students spend a full formal day at our school. They experience sample lessons (such as science, music, MFL or Drama). Students experience walking around our building during active school hours, and eat lunch in the school canteen.
Watch the video clip to see what a typical Transition Day looks like.
Meet the Tutor Evening for Parents
Held at the end of June/beginning of July following the student Transition Day, this is an essential evening presentation for parents and carers. Key members of the Senior Leadership Team, including the Headteacher and the Head of Year, outline the school's vision and the home-school relationship expectations. There is also an opportunity to meet with your child’s tutor who will be their champion from Year 7 through to Year 10. Information stalls are also available with key information about uniforms, buses, SEND and much more.
Summer School
Taking place during the summer holidays, our Summer School blends fun physical activities, creative arts, and subject based sessions. It is highly recommended as a tool to bridge the summer holiday gap and cement friendships.
Settling In (Autumn Term):
Onboarding Week
Our onboarding week in September is carefully crafted to help our new cohort settle into their new surroundings and embrace "The Baysgarth Way." Specially designed sessions help students understand how they learn, why we teach the way we do, and what to do if they need support. Students also spend dedicated time with their new form tutors, reviewing timetables and participating in icebreaker activities to build friendships and feel connected. To ensure a smooth transition, the week features a staggered return for other year groups, giving our newest students the time and space to comfortably acclimatise to their new school environment.
Year 7 Team Building Trip
At the end of onboarding week the entire Year 7 cohort takes part in an outdoor adventure trip. Activities include archery, adventure courses and challenges designed to build resilience, break down social barriers and establish strong bonds within tutor groups.
Year 7 Parent Induction Evening
Our Year 7 Parent Induction Evening takes place during the first week of September. We invite all parents and carers into school to receive key information regarding our core values, homework expectations, and enrichment programs. This evening ensures a smooth transition for your child by aligning our collective expectations for the upcoming academic year.
Year 7 Settling-In Parents’ Evening
Held in October, this evening marks the completion of the transition journey for most students. Parents meet briefly with their child's Form Tutor to review how well the student has adapted socially, routine-wise, and academically to secondary school life. For those students that still need support, where appropriate the pastoral team, attendance team and SEND team will continue to support.
If you have any questions or worries about transition, then please use the contact details in your welcome letter. Staff are happy to help answer any questions.