From Primary to Secondary: An Exciting Transition

On Thursday 21 August, we hosted our Welcome to Secondary Evening for our 2026 Year 7 students. The gym buzzed from the moment families arrived. Some students raced to test their speed and jump height, others mixed beats on the keyboard, while some were absorbed in artworks and books. There were guesses for the number of lollies in the jar, challenges to build the strongest spaghetti-and-marshmallow tower, and plenty of sticky fingers as pancakes were enjoyed alongside chats with our Faith Leadership Team.

Families heard from the Heads of Faculty about the exciting learning opportunities that lie ahead, not just for next year, but for the years to come. Current Year 7 students also shared their experiences, offering insight and encouragement to those new to secondary school. Students from the Faith Leadership Team led a reflective devotion.

The transition from primary to secondary school is a big step—not just for students, but for parents too. It can be exciting, scary, challenging, intriguing, confusing, and fun… sometimes all at once. A successful transition to school happens when children and their families experience a sense of belonging in the new school environment, and when teachers and educators acknowledge and support this feeling (Dockett & Perry, 2014). Our hope is that parents left the evening feeling a sense of belonging themselves and reassured that we are committed to walking this journey with every child.

As Christian educators, we value each student as a unique child of God, fearfully and wonderfully made, with gifts and potential that reflect His design and purpose (Psalm 139:14). We seek to help them discover who they are in Christ, their worth, and their passions, while uncovering the talents God has placed within them. Secondary school is a place of growth, discovery, and opportunity, and we are excited to walk alongside the Year 7 class of 2026 as they begin this journey.

Finally, thanks to everyone who helped make the evening such a wonderful experience. The energy, laughter, and connections created will be remembered as the first steps of an exciting journey into secondary school.

Kate Weekes

Secondary Teacher/Year 7 Coordinator