Year 7 into Year 8
Here at Ralph Sadleir, we appreciate that new students coming to us in Year 8 may consider it an unnerving prospect. We aim to make school a friendly and welcoming place where late starters settle in quickly and easily. The utmost care and consideration is given to the individual needs and circumstances of new pupils and their families. For example, opportunities are provided for the child and his/her parents to visit us prior to starting so that the child and parent can familiarise themselves with the school and key members of staff. We allocate a member of staff to each new child and his/her family to help during the settling in phase. Our Year 8 pupils are keen to take on a “buddy” role to help newcomers find their way around, get to know expectations and most importantly, to build friendships from the outset. We strive to gain accurate information from previous schools to ascertain ability and any other information that would help us to develop potential. Assessments may be carried out, as felt necessary, to ensure accurate assessment of learning needs.
Additionally, all pupils moving up from Year 7 spend a full day in July experiencing what life will be like in Year 8. The Transition Day includes an introduction from their new Pupil Progress Co-ordinator, time with their Form and some sample lessons.
Moving up to Freman College
Starting a new school is a very important step for your child and can be a very exciting, yet daunting one. To support your child in their move to Year 9 at Freman College, Year 8 tutors attend a meeting in the Summer Term with the Heads of House at Freman College and both school SENCOs, to discuss your child’s learning and social needs as well as any other relevant information. Additional support at Transition can be arranged for particularly vulnerable pupils where the school feels it is appropriate, often in the form of extra visits beforehand.
Also, in the Summer Term, the Year 8 Pupil Progress Coordinator sends information to Freman College that would benefit your child. Ralph Sadleir staff work closely with Freman College staff to organise school visits, taster lessons and sports activities, all which help to prepare your child for the challenges and opportunities that await them.
Finally, a whole transition day is held at Freman College in July, where your child will get to experience what life is like as a student, and is fully immersed into the school routine.
