A NEW CHAPTER AHEAD…..

As the new academic year approaches, I am thinking of those who are starting out at new schools.  This chapter, though yet unknown, I hope will be rewarding from the beginning. 

STARTING AT A NEW SENIOR SCHOOL: 

You are writing your own book so strive to fill the chapters of your book with pages and pages of “good stuff”.  Fill it with extraordinary experiences; with great friends; stimulating learning; and, with things that you are proud of and that mean something valuable to you.   Make it the best read ever!  May this new start be the launch pad to a wonderful 5 years of Senior School.

I am aware that many pupils are feeling apprehensive and unsure about what to expect at their new school.  Here are a few pointers:

• Trust that you will settle and find your way around.  This might take time, but you will.  There are going to be times when you feel lost and unsure.  It really is alright to feel like this, and those times do pass.  The “settling in” happens.  And do reach out for support.  Whether a teacher, a prefect or somebody in your year group – there are many around you who want to help.

• Should anxious thoughts pervade, change that thinking from “what if … “ to “I wonder ….”.  I wonder what the first day of school will be like? I wonder who will be teaching me?  I wonder what new friend I will make in the first week?   “I wonder …” helps your mind to search for all sorts of positive scenarios.

• When you arrive on your first day, in your new uniform, look around you and know that those to your left and to your right are as apprehensive as you are.  Make it your mission to reach out and help somebody else.   Helping others helps you. Be friendly and as open as you are able.  Look our for those who look as if they need some reassurance.  Asking others about themselves is a good way of starting a chat. And remember, a smile goes a long way!

Below is advice from a Head Master:  

Engage with those around you – be kind, helpful and interested!

Engage with your surroundings – try new things: do sport; play an instrument; join a society; sing in the choir; debate; volunteer…..

Engage in your classes – sit near the front if you are easily distracted.  

Keep an efficient homework diary.  Be neat and organised!

Engage in your learning – get stuck in from day one!  

Engage with your friends – think about how THEY are.  Furthermore, choose your friends wisely.

Engage with yourself – keep up a good appearance, do things that make you happy and get enough sleep!  

LIVE WITH INTENTION…..LISTEN HARD…..APPRECIATE…..CONTINUE TO LEARN…..DO WHAT YOU LOVE….LOOK AFTER YOURSELF VERY WELL

Mary Anne Radmacher

May you be stimulated, happy and excited about learning in the years ahead.  And may you be courageous in saying yes to new experiences.