Transition to High School
Starting high school is an exciting milestone for students and families. Moving from Year 6 to Year 7 can feel like a big change. We help every child feel confident and supported during the transition to high school.
Find out more in the Getting ready for high school guide.
What to expect in high school
High school brings new experiences and routines, including:
- a larger school with more subjects, teachers and classrooms
- a timetable with different lessons each day
- moving between classrooms and carrying books and equipment
- more independence and responsibility for homework and study
- new friendships and opportunities to join activities and clubs.
Before your child starts Year 7
Enrolment interview
Before your child begins, families may be asked to meet with the high school principal. This is a time to share:
- medical conditions or allergies
- family circumstances that may affect your child’s start
- any learning or wellbeing needs.
They will also explain the supports the school provides, such as:
- support for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students through personalised learning pathways
- extra support for students learning English as an additional language or dialect (EAL/D)
- support for students with disability or other learning needs through inclusive education programs.
Learn more about additional learning support and enrolment requirements at our local high school.
Our transition program
We work closely with our local high school to help students feel ready. Our transition to high school programs help Year 6 students get ready for Year 7. Activities may include:
- orientation days and school tours
- parent information sessions and meet the teacher events
- subject tasters and classroom visits
- peer support activities with older students.
Students, parents and carers can join these sessions to learn about daily schedules, uniforms, lunches and communication. If you need an interpreter, let us know.
Contact us to learn more.
Transition Events and dates
Parent Information Evening 1
- Tuesday 6th May (Week 2, Term 2)
High potential and gifted educational applications close
- Friday 20th June (Week 8, Term 2)
- More information about our HPGE program
Year 6 Taster Lessons
- Weeks 5 and 6, Term 3
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Student Transition
- Week 3 and Week 6, Term 4
Orientation Day
- Tuesday 2nd December (Week 9, Term 4)
Parent Information Evening 2
- Tuesday 2nd December (Week 9, Term 4)
Contact us for more information.
Cardiff High School
Getting ready at home
You can help your child prepare by:
- talking positively about starting high school
- buying uniforms, shoes, stationery and school supplies
- checking if a laptop or device is needed
- practising their travel route to school
- making sure they know your phone number and emergency contacts
- encouraging routines such as packing their school bag
- encouraging them to check their timetable and school bell times the night before day 1 of Term 1.
For more advice, see the Getting ready for high school guide.