Starting Year 7
The transition from primary to secondary school is one of the biggest jumps in a young person’s life. Overnight, they go from being the oldest and most confident in their school to being a small fish in a very big pond. Even in the best of circumstances, this shift brings excitement, uncertainty and a whole new set of expectations. Many students begin Year 7 feeling a mixture of anticipation and anxiety as they face unfamiliar routines, new subjects and a much larger school environment.
Research shows that students’ sense of belonging often dips during this period. Larger campuses, rotating teachers and increased academic expectations can leave them feeling unsure or overwhelmed. When orientation activities are limited or inconsistent, young people may step into high school with more questions than confidence.
But with the right support, Year 7 can be a fresh start and an opportunity for growth, resilience and renewed independence.
Get organised early
Help your child start strong by making sure they have what they need: stationery, uniforms, books, a tidy study space, and a simple system for organising their notes. Once a term begins, chaos creeps in quickly, so set things up clearly from day one.
Create a distraction-free study space
Whether it’s the dining table or a desk in their bedroom, choose a place where they can focus and feel comfortable. Keep it clean, tech-controlled and free from digital noise. A calm environment boosts motivation and reduces stress.
Use planners and diaries
Year 7 demands more organisation than primary school. Encourage your child to use a study planner or diary to track homework, assignments, assessments, key dates and classroom locations. Colour coding and simple checklists can make every day more manageable.
Build a consistent routine
A predictable rhythm brings stability. Encourage your child to unwind for 30–60 minutes after school with something they enjoy, then spend dedicated time on homework before dinner. Even on quieter days, practising the routine helps build strong habits.
Set realistic, motivating goals
The start of the year is the perfect time for setting goals. Support your child to define small, achievable targets. These goals help them stay focused, motivated and proud of their progress.
Be flexible with study priorities
Help your child learn when to shift their focus. If a major assignment or exam is approaching, encourage them to dedicate extra time to that subject and come back to others afterwards. Flexible planning helps them feel in control rather than overwhelmed.
Try something new
Year 7 is full of opportunities such as sports, clubs, music, drama and even leadership roles. Encourage your child to explore. Trying new activities helps them make friends, build confidence and feel a stronger sense of belonging.
Maintain old friendships, nurture new ones
Friendships often change during this transition. Remind your child they can still stay connected to primary school friends while forming new relationships at high school. Having support both inside and outside school creates social stability.
Normalise mixed emotions
Starting high school comes with excitement, nerves and everything in between. Let your child know these feelings are normal and temporary. Share your own stories of starting something new to help them feel understood and less alone.
Create safe spaces to talk
Check in regularly without interrogating. Listen first, validate their feelings, and avoid jumping straight into advice. When young people feel heard, they’re more likely to open up when things get difficult.
Watch for warning signs
Be aware of changes in mood, energy, sleep or social patterns. Withdrawal, irritability or a sudden drop in motivation may signal that they’re struggling. If things don’t improve after a couple of weeks, reach out to their homeroom teacher or year-level coordinator early.
Model calm and optimism
Your attitude matters. Staying calm and confident shows your child that they can navigate challenges too. Reinforce the idea that setbacks are normal and that thinking positively can change how they experience new situations.
Encourage independence, but stay connected
While it’s tempting to step in, Year 7 is the ideal time to help your child become more self-reliant. Support them, but avoid doing everything for them. Let them practise organising themselves, speaking to teachers and solving small problems on their own.
Normalise help-seeking
Show your child that talking to trusted adults such as teachers, coordinators, counsellors, is sensible and healthy. Let them know you’ll work through challenges together and that support is always available.