Moving 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.

Our local high school

Chatham High School offers opportunities through their High Potential and Gifted Education (HPGE) programs where students are prepared for success in learning, leadership and life beyond school, including:

• Chatham High Academic Curriculum Extension (CHACE) Program

• Aboriginal Education Programs

• Talented Athletes Program (TAP)

Before your child starts Year 7

Enrolment interview

Before your child begins, families may be asked to meet with the 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.

It is a chance to discuss the supports the high 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 Chatham High School.

Transition program

The staff of Chatham High School work closely with our school to help students feel ready. Their 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, please let us know.

To learn more about Chatham High School, contact their office.

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.

Have a question?

The Chatham High School office is open Monday to Friday 8am to 4.00pm during school term.

chatham-h.school@det.nsw.edu.au

6552 2588

Davis St, NSW 2430 Taree