Moving from primary to secondary school is a really big step for most children and their families. The process can be overwhelming for some, so it is really important that you remember to think about everyone’s mental health and wellbeing throughout. Start the conversation as early as possible to help deal with any questions or worries your child may have. Carefully manage expectations, don’t make promises that cannot be delivered and ask for any help and advice you need.
At Our Lady Immaculate Primary, during Year 6 we help the children to develop their independent skills, and routines so that they are ready for transition. As soon as they enter Year 6, the children become involved with the running of the school as they are each given the responsibility of becoming a Prefect, e.g. School Council Prefect, Sports Prefects, Play leaders, Worship Prefects and Anti-Bullying Ambassadors. In class the children have many opportunities to discuss transition and the children experience a taster day at St John Payne Catholic School early-on in the Autumn term. Past pupils visit Our Lady Immaculate to share their experiences and they are accompanied by the Year 7 Head of Year. Our Lady Immaculate School staff liaise closely with secondary schools to allow them to get to know their new intake and for pupils with particular needs, extra visits are arranged.
We end our time together with a special Leavers’ Mass which celebrates the children’s time at Our Lady Immaculate School, and also offers prayers for their happy and successful future education and life.
Essex County Council – Applying for a Secondary School Place
As a Catholic Primary School many of our children move onto St John Payne Catholic School in Chelmsford.
St John Payne Catholic School
Patching Hall Lane,
Chelmsford,
Essex CM1 4BS
Telephone: 01245 352337
Email: office@sjp.essex.sch.uk
Some of our children choose to attend other local secondary schools including: