Education and learning - 11-16 year olds

Moving to secondary school can be a daunting and busy time for you and your child.

Here are some ways you can prepare: 

• help your child get to know their new school before they start
• make sure information is shared between your child's primary and secondary schools so they are aware of any needs your child has
• prepare practical things like their uniform well in advance
• help your child develop some independence if possible, to build their confidence

The BBC bitesize website has some useful information to support you and your child.

The school admissions section of our website has all the information you need to apply for a secondary school place.

Regular attendance at school is important to help children achieve and reach their potential. You are responsible for making sure your child goes to school. 

If your child cannot attend school for any reason, you should contact the school straight away.

You may decide to educate your child at home. This is known as elective home education and will involve making alternative arrangements.

Your child may be entitled to free school meals if you are in receipt of certain benefits.

If your child is entitled to free school meals, they will be able to access the holiday, activities and food programme (HAF), where they will be able to take part in activities and get free food during the Christmas, Easter and summer holidays.

There are lots of ways that pupils and students can get support in school, at home and in the community.

School anxiety and refusal

School anxiety, sometimes called school refusal, is when your child feels fearful or anxious about school and might be unable to attend. This can be very upsetting for both you and your child. 

Here are some helpful resources available for parents and carers to support children facing school anxiety: 

• BBC Bitesize: school anxiety and refusal 
• BBC Bitesize: how can I support myself and my child through their school anxiety 
• BBC Bitesize: five tips to support the after-school 'meltdown' 
• Young Minds: school anxiety and refusal 
• Place2Be: my child doesn't want to go to school 
• NHS: anxiety in children 

Bullying should be reported to your child's school. However, if you are not happy with the outcome, you can report it to us.

Our SEND Hub can provide information on statutory education health and care plans for children and young people who have special educational needs (SEND).

You can also visit out Educational Psychology Service, which supports young people's learning, development and belonging.

Coping with exams

• BBC Bitesize: exam stress and how parents can help 
• Mind: dealing with exam stress for 11 to 18 year olds 
• NHS: help your child beat exam stress 
• GOV.UK: coping with exam pressure – a guide for students