Preparing for High School: Advice for Prep/Primary School Parents

With the mid-year assessment week behind us, our Grade 7 students have effectively completed their first set of formal summative assessments. This is a stark reminder to parents, teachers and students that they are on the final strait of their prep school career and that the move to high school is imminent. Transitioning from prep school to high school can be a significant milestone for both students and parents alike. Here are some tips as you prepare yourselves and your children for the next step in their learning journey - high school.

1. Familiarise yourself with the expectations:

• Take the time to thoroughly understand the offerings and academic expectations of high school.

• Ask if school policies are available for:

  • Inclusion

    • what is their approach to granting concessions? Even though the prep school has granted concessions, it is not guaranteed that the high school will grant those same concessions. Procedures and criteria differ.

  • Assessment

    • What is the school’s philosophy about assessment?

    • What exit examinations do they offer? IEB (Independent Examination Board) – this is what we currently offer, DBE (Department of Basic Education) or other (e.g. IB Diploma Programme or Cambridge)

2. Encourage Independence and Time Management:

High school brings increased responsibilities and a greater need for independence.

Encourage your child to:

• take ownership of their studies, assignments, and extracurricular activities.

• develop effective time management skills to balance academics, social engagements, and personal commitments.

Let them take the reins a little and give them room to make mistakes – they need to learn how to cope independently.

3. Support Extracurricular Involvement:

The prep school provides a wide range of extracurricular activities. To ensure a smoother transition, find out what is offered at high school and encourage your child to explore their interests and get involved in activities that align with their passions.

Participation in extracurriculars not only helps them integrate into the high school environment, develop new friendships and extend their social circle, but it also helps develop valuable skills and character traits.

4. Promote a Healthy Work-Life Balance:

While academic success is important, it's crucial to emphasise the significance of maintaining a healthy work-life balance. Encourage your child to engage in activities outside of their studies, such as sports, hobbies, and spending time with friends and family.

Balancing academics with personal interests and social interactions will contribute to their overall well-being. This also means that as your child navigates the rocky waters of teenage life, they have a strong social support structure.

5. Encourage Goal Setting:

Although it may seem early days yet, encourage your child to consider achievable short-term and long-term goals for their high school years.

Whether it's academic achievements, personal growth, or future tertiary studies aspirations, goal setting provides a sense of direction and purpose.

Be prepared for them to change their mind often – so regular evaluation is important. At each stage, collectively agree on actions, attitudes and decisions that will help them plan for success.

6. Foster Resilience and Adaptability:

High school can present various challenges, including:

• academic pressures,

• social dynamics,

• and personal growth.

Teach your child to be resilient in the face of setbacks and failures.

Encourage them to adapt to new situations and seek support when needed. Building resilience will equip them with important life skills that go beyond high school.

7. Start talking and thinking about the possibility of University/College:

• Research requirements, standardised tests, and scholarship opportunities.

• Encourage your child to engage in meaningful extracurricular activities.

• Develop strong relationships with teachers who can provide recommendations.

8. Be Mindful of Mental Health:

Last but certainly not least, high school can be an emotionally challenging time for teenagers. Keep an eye out for signs of stress, anxiety, or other mental health issues in your child.

Foster an environment where they feel comfortable discussing their emotions and seeking support when needed.

If necessary, don't hesitate to reach out to the school's counselling services or seek professional help.

Emphasise the importance of self-care through sufficient sleep, a healthy diet, and physical exercise.

Preparing for high school is an exciting and transformative time for students and a tough time for parents to loosen the reins. Don’t hesitate to ask for information or even advice from teachers, school counsellors or management as you enter this beautiful new phase of your child’s learning journey.