Starting secondary school can feel like a big step, and it’s completely normal to have a mix of excitement, nerves and questions about what’s ahead. While it can take some time to settle into a new environment, there can be lots of positive experiences, new friendships and supportive people along the way.
In this community blog, Frankie shares her personal experience of starting secondary school, the good, the bad and the challenging, and how she found her way through it!
If you, or someone you know, needs support around starting secondary school, our support team is here for you.
Going into secondary school can be quite difficult especially when you are classed as “different”. When I went into Y7 it started out good. I had my friends from primary school, made new friends, enjoyed my classes and met all my new teachers and TA’s. But as time went on people got more comfortable and their true selves started to show. Kids from other schools that I’ve never met before were saying rude things to me about myself and my disability. Of course, that hurt me and impacted me a lot, but I have learnt not care about what they think. Obviously, that’s easier said than done, especially when people make comments about things that can’t be changed.
The most important thing we can do is to not shrink down to their level, when you fight fire with fire, you just create a bigger fire, which doesn’t solve the problem. If you “fight” back with kindness or even just ignore them, they will eventually get tired and bored. They will realise that they have nothing on you – most of the time they are just jealous or think that they are better than you – but spoiler alert – they are not!
My primary school was quite small, so I only had 3 Teacher Assistants maximum. When I went into secondary school, which was much bigger, there was a lot of TA’s, nearly a new one every period. It took time to get used to everyone, as every TA has their own way of doing things. In the end they are there to help you and they quickly adapt to your needs. No TA will be rude or unhelpful. What I have seen with all my different TA’s is that they are all super kind and understanding. You just need to tell them what you need.
In conclusion when you move to secondary school, make sure that you give yourself plenty of time to get used to new environment. Work at your own pace, and be assured that there is plenty of good-hearted kids and adult who will guide you through your new journey.
Francesca Cirillo (Frankie)