More than 90 pupils who will be joining Wensleydale School in September have spent three days getting to know their new surroundings as part of the school’s annual transition programme.
The Leyburn secondary school welcomed 91 Year 6 pupils from more than 16 feeder primary schools for the initiative, which is designed to help children make the move from primary to secondary education with confidence.
During the three-day programme, pupils followed a typical secondary school timetable, explored the school site and met teachers and future classmates.
They took part in lessons including English, maths, science, PE, art, music and design and technology, while also enjoying team-building activities and spending time with their new Academic Mentor Groups.
Current Year 7 Student Leaders played a key role throughout the programme, acting as ambassadors by helping pupils find their way around the school, answering questions and offering reassurance.
Josh Hadfield, Key Stage 3 Progress Leader at Wensleydale School, said: “Our three-day Transition Programme has been a fantastic success. It has been wonderful to see so many young people grow in confidence, make new friendships and embrace the opportunities ahead.
“We are incredibly proud of how they have approached this important milestone and look forward to welcoming them back as members of our school community in September.”
The school said feedback from pupils had been overwhelmingly positive, with many saying they had made new friends, enjoyed trying different subjects and felt much more confident about starting secondary school.
Mr Hadfield said transition days play an important role in helping pupils settle into their new environment before the start of term, reducing any worries they may have over the summer holidays.
He added that the school would continue working closely with families and primary schools to ensure every student feels supported and ready for the move.
The new Year 7 cohort will officially begin life at Wensleydale School on Wednesday, September 9, when they will meet their academic mentors, receive their timetables and spend time with their tutor groups before lessons begin.
