Starting Secondary School

Why AIS students love Year 6 as the transition year

The change of moving from Elementary to Secondary School can be a daunting experience for everyone involved; parents and students. At the Australian International School (AIS) we offer Year 6 as the Transition Year which has been designed with student success in mind, to ensure a smooth transition from Elementary to Secondary school.

Here’s how AIS supports your child with the transition

At AIS we focus on eliminating the anxiety levels by providing multiple experiences at the beginning of the year, which are relevant and engaging for our students. These include:

• Information sessions run by Year 6 students for Year 5 students.
• A full day of transition where students are able to experience a day in the life of a Year 6 student.
• A full week of orientation activities where the Year Sixes are engaged in various lessons including cyber safety, study skills, timetabling, organisation and STRIVE fun.

The key component of Year 6 is the simplicity to our being which is a bridging year from Elementary School to Secondary School.

We focus on creating a “toolbox” for the student to access as their Secondary School journey progresses. We are the base camp on a journey which spans many years and has many obstacles to overcome. Throughout Year 6 the team is dedicated to the understanding of Academic Welfare. This is not a new concept but one which is founded on relationships being the foundation in order to achieve student success.

The STRIVE teachers spend designated time to further understand each of the students in their direct care. It is these relationships which forge the foundation of the success to come. With each relationship, the teachers come to understand a little more of the student and create an understanding that should there be any issues you can always come to me and we will work it out together.

Each student in Year 6 does not go through their journey alone. Much like a mountaineer would never attempt to summit alone, they require a team around them. So do our students.

Don’t take our word for it here are some quotes from our students

“What I liked about transitioning from year 5 to year 6 was the orientation week at the start of term 1. This was really helpful to me because the teachers were extremely welcoming and they taught us about the year coming up and the expectations. Even though there were many COVID 19 restrictions the teachers still made sure the week was fun and informative. There were many new students so we had lots of time to get to know each other. Overall it was a really great experience which I feel so lucky to have.” Minnie Hockley Year 6 2021

“I was previously in year 5 and had the opportunity to transition to year 6, due to the pandemic it was a bit difficult, but still an amazing experience. I loved the sessions where they helped us study and encouraged us to put our best effort towards our assessments. One of my favourite parts is meeting my new classmates and teachers, I was in 6W and was able to make new friends and connect with others.” Emilia Brown Year 6 2021

If your child’s heading off to secondary school, there are things you can do to ensure they’re ready, from packing their school bag the night before to encouraging independence.

Here are a few ideas on how you can help with your child’s move from Elementary to Secondary school

Focus on the positive

1. Your child may be anxious about starting secondary school, so try to stay optimistic. Encourage them to be excited at the prospect of new classes and a new teacher.

Revisit the school’s website

2. You will be able to find lots of helpful information on the website which could address some of your child’s concerns such as timetables or videos showing the new area of the school.

Make sure they have what they need

3. It’s a good idea to make sure your child has all the equipment they need at least a week before the term start date. Check for the correct uniform, provide them with pencils and supplies and pack their bag the night before so they are not rushing on the first day.

Arrange for transport

4. You may want to take them to school on their first day but it’s also good to arrange for them to take the MRT or bus as it will help them be more independent.

Book a tour today 

If your child is in Elementary school and looking to change schools, booking an on-site tour is a great way to experience the Australian International School campus. 

Feel free to contact us here or call 6517 0247