As the summer holidays approach, we understand that nine weeks off can be quite a stretch to keep children entertained. Ideas may be hard to come by, but fear not – our special wellbeing and transition booklet is here to help!
We are delighted to present this booklet, meticulously crafted to support your transition to the next academic year while fostering your overall wellbeing. Within these pages, you’ll discover tailored adventures and challenges for your year group, ranging from outdoor explorations to creative projects and mindfulness exercises.
We firmly believe that becoming a positive and resilient learner is key to success and our booklet aims to empower you on this journey. So, why not make the most of the summer break by ticking off as many activities as you can before September? Let the adventure begin....
Mr Thomson Head of Pastoral Care
GETTING READY FOR YEAR 7
Buddy System
Pair up with a friend or classmate who is also transitioning to secondary school.
Travel to Secondary School
Take the bus with your parents and get used to travelling to your new school.
Set Yourself Goals
Set short-term and long-term goals for the upcoming school year, both academically and personally.
Be Confident with Time
Be confident in telling the time, to be ready for the increase in independence in terms of time management.
Take on Maths Challenges
Solve maths puzzles or brainteasers.
GETTING READY FOR YEAR 7
Set Up a Weekly Schedule
Create a weekly schedule for activities, chores and free time, learning time management and prioritisation.
Organise Your Belongings
De-clutter and organise your personal belongings such as toys, books and clothes – promoting tidiness and organisation skills.
Get Touch Typing
Practise your touch-typing skills ready for the increase in the use of technology at secondary school.
Reading Marathon
Set a goal to read a certain number of books over the summer to foster a love for reading and expand your vocabulary.
Tick
Tick Tick Tick
Self-Care Routine
Establish a daily self-care routine that includes activities such as exercise, grooming and relaxation.
Plan a Family Meal
Plan and cook a family meal, including budget, shopping and cooking. Promoting independence and responsibility as well as critical thinking around the budget itself.
Pack Your Own Bag
Pack your own bag independently for a family day out, ensuring that you have everything they need.
Plan a Family Day Out
Plan and execute a fun family day out, including activities, budget, transportation and so on.
BECOMING MORE INDEPENDENT
Solve Your Problems
Encourage yourself to independently solve problems you encounter during normal daily activities, fostering resilience and critical thinking.
LOOKING AFTER YOUR WELLBEING
Mindfulness Practice
Spend time each day practising mindfulness or meditation to promote mental wellbeing and reduce anxiety.
Yoga Practice
Participate in yoga or stretching exercises to improve flexibility, posture and overall wellbeing.
Start a Gardening Project
Start a small garden or tend to potted plants to learn about nature and responsibility.
Journalling
Start a journal to document your thoughts, feelings and experiences during this period of transition.
LOOKING AFTER YOUR WELLBEING
Exercise Daily
Move daily. Set a target in the week to complete a certain amount of pushups, walk a certain distance or do some squats.
Socialise Safely
Plan outdoor meet-ups or virtual hangouts with friends to stay connected and combat feelings of isolation.
Walk in Nature
Take leisurely walks in nature to appreciate the beauty of the outdoors and promote mental clarity.
Community Service
Volunteer for community service projects or charity initiatives to foster empathy and compassion.
Tick
Tick
Explore New Hobbies
Try out different hobbies or interests, such as photography, coding or dancing to discover new passions.
Play a Jam Session
Learn to play a musical instrument or have a jam session with friends for creative expression and enjoyment.
DIY Science Experiments
Conduct simple science experiments at home using household items to spark curiosity and learning.
Host a Sports Day
Organise a friendly sports competition with friends or family members to stay active and have fun.
HAVING SOME FUN
Outdoor Adventures
Plan a day trip to a local nature reserve or hiking trail to enjoy the outdoors.
DIY Art Projects
Get creative with DIY art projects using recycled materials or items found in nature.
Family Movie Night
Enjoy movie nights with family members, discussing themes and messages from the films.
Artistic Expression
Engage in creative activities like drawing, painting, or crafting.