Reasons why you might change school

There are lots of reasons why you might change school.

It can be an exciting but also anxious time.

You might feel that you need some additional support whilst you make the transition. Or maybe you’re worried about your support for learning continuing in your new school.

Here we share some of the most common reasons for moving school and the kind of support that can help make it as positive as possible.

Some reasons why you might be moving schools:

Moving house
Changes at home
Your current school isn’t the right fit
You have a family member in the armed forces
You’re moving from primary school to secondary school.

5 things to know

Below we’ve listed 5 useful things to know about support at your new school:

Your current school should work with you and your family to plan your move and the support you will need at your new school.
You might feel shy about having your say at planning meetings. But getting involved in planning your move can help make sure that the support in your new school is what you want and need. Find out more about having your say in decisions made about you at school here.
If you say it’s ok, your old school will share information about your support with your new school.
Secondary schools are big and busy places with more staff and pupils to get to know. If you’re moving up to secondary school the change might mean that you need different support than at primary school.
Your new school should make sure your support works for you. If any issues come up after you move, the school can make changes to your support.

Ideas to help when changing schools

When you are moving to a new school there are a few things that can help make the transition as smooth as possible.

Here are some ideas of support that might help:

Finding your way around: it can be really helpful to know how you’re getting to your new school but also where to go once you get there.

Where possible, it’s always helpful to visit the school before you start. You can then have a clearer idea as to where to go on your first day and which adults can help you find your way.

Getting to know people: one of the scariest things – especially if you’re starting school by yourself – is not knowing anyone.

It can take time to make new friends and you may feel lonely or overwhelmed to start with, but getting to know your support staff can be a positive step. They should be able to help you settle in, potentially partner you up with a buddy and suggest a quieter space to go at break times until you’re feeling more confident.

Meetings with support staff: Going to meetings about your support can help you get to know the adults who will be supporting you.

Being included in discussions about your support can create a positive start to a new school.