Waves of change
‘Sometimes in the waves of change we find our true direction.’
RUBY MURPHY says change should have a chill factor, relax and enjoy it. Change.
and change around classes for the different subjects. Others said they were looking Q: What do you think the challenges are Everyone experiences change in different forward to the sports. for Year 7 students transitioning from ways throughout their life. I asked what they think will be the biggest It can have good or bad consequences, but primary to intermediate school? change. eventually, everyone usually benefits from A: I think students worry about making Quite a few of the kids said the biggest change. new friends more than anything. change for them will be the new timetable Some people are afraid of the effects and having to navigate their way around change can have on them, but others thrive Friends were a big part of making me feel the school to their classes. safe and comfortable in my new environoff it. Also, getting to know the Year 8’s and their ment. Someone once said, ‘sometimes in the new teacher. waves of change we find our true direcQ: What could a student do if they are In my experience so far as a Year 7 stution.’ feeling unsure or troubled at school? dent, one of the biggest changes is the For me, the change from primary school to diverse subjects I can study. A: I think students need to feel they have intermediate was easy. I had my friends by an adult at school they can talk to who has I’ve also noticed there is more indepenmy side to give me confidence, and everydence as there is less teacher and parent their best interest at heart. body was friendly. involvement in your learning. There are To gain the perspective of some students Unfortunately, this is not the case for more expectations and deadlines that moving on to intermediate school, I asked must be met. everyone. a group of Year 6’s from Flanshaw Road Self-esteem can have a big effect on kids However, these expectations can get you school how they were feeling about this around my age. Whether it is doubting ready for the years ahead at high school. transition to intermediate school. or not feeling the best about yourself, For most people, the transition from self-esteem can ruin the chances of having Most of the students were excited, and the primary to intermediate is a positive expemain reason was that they will get to know rience. Being worried and nervous is comfun at school. a new environment and make new friends. pletely normal – in the end, you will build Some kids may feel insecure, or like they Some felt nervous, even scared because don’t fit in. Maybe kids are worried about resilience and benefit from the changes. they don’t know what the new learning what others think of them. And remember – there are people who environment is like and worry it will be There are more pressures for youth in tocan help you along the way if you need harder than primary school. day’s society than in the past. It’s importsomeone to talk to. Feeling like this is totally normal. ant people acknowledge these pressures. Also, be confident and always try your A couple felt sad because they will leave If you are or know someone who has best. Success is not about perfection. It’s troubles with self-esteem or other mental behind so many amazing experiences at about progress. Give yourself time to settle primary school. health issues, talk to someone. There are into intermediate. You might find someI also asked what they were looking support agencies that can help. thing you are passionate about, and if you forward to. Lots of the students said they I asked my teacher, Whaea Sarah Richkeep your head held high, you’ll have a were excited to meet new and old friends ardson, her thoughts about transitioning great experience at intermediate school. students.
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