As your child prepares to transition from Year 6 to Year 7, we understand that this is a significant milestone. It’s a time filled with excitement, anticipation and sometimes a little nervousness. The move from primary to secondary school comes with many changes, both academically and socially, and we want to ensure your child feels supported and confident as they take this next step in joining us at St Katherine's.

Our transition team, who are highly experienced in supporting students through this important change, begin working with new students during the spring with visits to their primary schools. This offers a chance to meet them in their familiar environment ahead of children coming to meet us at St Katherine’s. During these visits, we not only get to know the students better, but we also meet with Year 6 teachers and other key members of staff to discuss each child’s strengths, any concerns and their individual needs. This collaborative approach helps us to ensure that we are well-prepared to support your child as they join us in Year 7.

For students with special educational needs and disabilities, Mrs Flora Slater, our SENDCO, visits students with EHCPs in their primary schools. We facilitate enhanced transition for all students with EHCPs and for those who will need additional support to secure a smooth transition. 

As part of our comprehensive transition process, we host our new Year students for their induction day in June. This fun-packed day is designed to help your child feel comfortable, excited, and ready for their new adventure with us.

Induction Programme Details:

• Taster lessons: Your child will experience a range of lessons that give them a preview of what to expect in Year 7. These sessions are a great way for students to get a feel for secondary school life and discover new subjects they’ll be studying.
• Meeting new tutors and classmates: The induction day also provides the opportunity for all students to meet their new tutor and get to know the other students in their tutor group. It’s a wonderful chance for your child to begin forming friendships and feel part of the St Katherine’s community before the new school year begins.
• Induction evening for children and their parents/carers. This is a valuable opportunity for parents and carers to meet key staff members, learn more about what to expect in Year 7, and ask any questions you may have. The evening will close with a complimentary BBQ, where you can meet with other parents and staff in a relaxed setting. Parents should attend with their child. 

At St Katherine’s, we believe in the importance of reading and it’s essential for students to keep reading over the summer holidays. To help with this, Ms Wyld, our librarian, has created a Year 7 Transition Reading Leaflet with a variety of exciting book recommendations for students to try. For more suggestions and details, visit the Library page on our website.

How You Can Help:

• Encourage your child to read every day - help them explore the recommended books over the summer.
• Check the Library page: Find more resources and recommendations online.

For more information about starting at St Katherine’s please see our Year 7 Parent/Carer Information Handbook or induction evening presentation.

For any further assistance, please contact us at school@skdrive.org  or Mrs Flora Slater, SENDCO at sendteam@skdrive.org