Primary concerns on flit to secondary

Aug 19 2008 by Our Correspondent, Perthshire Advertiser Tuesday

VOLUNTEER counsellors at ChildLine in Scotland are ready to lend a listening ear to Perth and Kinross pupils who may be apprehensive about making the move from primary to secondary school.

Elaine Chalmers, head of ChildLine in Scotland, said yesterday: “Starting secondary school will be an exciting prospect for some young people in Perth and Kinross but for many this transition might be a daunting and scary thought.

“Some pupils may be concerned about making new friends or being left out at lunchtime.

“As well as being there for young people who call the helpline, ChildLine also run peer support schemes.

“We help schools set up schemes such as befriending and support programmes where older pupils are trained to listen to and support younger pupils who may have worries or concerns.

“This has great benefits for all pupils involved and also for the school.”

Scotland’s peer support team have provided these top tips for pupils concerned about starting secondary school:

1 It’s normal to be nervous or scared about starting secondary school. Share concerns with someone you trust.

2 If travelling to school by bus, arrange to walk to the bus stop with a friend.

3 If friends are in a different class, arrange to travel to and from school with them and meet them at break times.

4 Secondary schools are a lot bigger than primary schools and it can be easy to get lost. Pair up with a classmate between lessons.

5 Older pupils understand how it feels to be new at secondary school and are often there to help you settle in. If you have a buddy/peer supporter scheme, use it.

Perth and Kinross pupils who are worried about making the move to secondary school can talk about in confidence to ChildLine on 0800 11 11.

Pupils can also visit the ChildLine website at www.childline.org.uk. The site is solely for young people to access help and advice.