IGNITING YOUNG MINDS
Welcome Future Year 7!
Congratulations! You're about to start one of the biggest adventures of your life.
Starting secondary school can feel exciting, a little scary, or even a mixture of both – and that's completely normal.
The Ignition Arts team have created this page especially for children who have already taken part in one of our My Primary 2 Secondary workshops.
Throughout the summer holidays, come back whenever you need some advice, a confidence boost or just a reminder that... You've got this!
Top Tips from Year 7 Students
Real advice from pupils who have already made the journey.
Talk to New People
Some students will be even more nervous than you are.
Say hello—you might make a new friend.
⭐ Expectations vs Reality
During our workshop we discovered that what we expect isn't always what really happens!
❌ Expectation:
"I'll get lost every day!"
✅ The Reality:
You might get lost once or twice...
...but you'll soon know your way around!
Teachers and older students are always happy to help.
❌ Expectation:
"The teachers are really scary."
✅ The Reality:
Secondary teachers expect Year 7 pupils to be new. They want you to do well and are there to help you settle in.
❌ Expectation:
"Everyone already has lots of friends."
✅ The Reality:
Lots of children are meeting new people too. A simple smile or "hello" can be the start of a great friendship.
❌ Expectation:
"The work is much too hard."
✅ The Reality:
The work gets more challenging over time, but your teachers will explain everything and help you learn step by step.
Get Organised
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✔ Pack your bag the night before.
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✔ Check your timetable.
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✔ Make sure you've got all your equipment.
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✔ Keep your timetable somewhere easy to find.
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✔ Lay out your school uniform before you go to bed.
Get a Good Start
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✔ Set your alarm.
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✔ Eat a good breakfast.
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✔ Leave home with plenty of time.
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✔ Know your journey to school.
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✔ Take a water bottle with you.
Be Yourself
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✔ Smile and say hello.
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✔ Don't be afraid to make new friends.
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✔ Join a club or activity if you can.
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✔ Ask questions if you're unsure.
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✔ Remember that everyone is settling in together.
You've Got This!
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✔ Everyone was new once.
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✔ It's OK to make mistakes.
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✔ Teachers are there to help you.
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✔ Every day gets a little easier.
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✔ Believe in yourself—you've got this!
🎒 Your Year 7 Survival Kit
A few simple things you can do before your first day to help you feel organised, confident and excited for September.
⭐ Good Luck, Future Year 7!
You won't need it.
You have already taken the first step by completing your My Primary 2 Secondary workshop with Ignition Arts.
Over the summer, remember to be yourself, stay positive and enjoy the journey ahead. Starting secondary school is a big adventure, and we know you're going to do brilliantly.
You've got this!