Parents given advice on big step up

TdaNews Direct
Published: 19 August, 2008

Parents of children making the step up from primary to secondary school have been offered advice to help ease the transition into the next stage of their education.

Speaking to the Evening Gazette, Kevin Buckle, Middlesbrough council's assistant head of school improvement, noted that induction days were the most direct way of easing a child into their new school but parents could also help them adjust.

Dispelling urban myths about a bigger school was recommended by Mr Buckle as a particular help, as well as generally talking positively about the major changes the child is going through.

Having the correct and proper uniform and PE kit was also emphasised, as fitting in with the rest means a lot to children early on as standing out could attract unwanted attention or awkwardness.

Mr Buckle concluded: "Children need to be encouraged that if they have any worries to talk about them straight away, and not to let them fester.

"Having conversations with your child will build their self esteem."

It was noted by Sky News that school uniforms were expanding in available sizes to match the rising average waistline of the nation.