My journey from P7 to S1: Alexandra’s story

Starting secondary school is an exciting time but we know you may feel a little nervous too. Going into S1 is a big change.

Alexandra’s here to help! She’s about to start S2 and was in the same position as you a year ago. Read on to find out how secondary school is different from primary and get top tips ahead of your first day.

Alexandra’s time in S1

My name’s Alexandra, I’m 13 and I’ve just finished S1. I’ve written about my move into secondary school and I hope it helps you prepare for your first day.

More homework

Before I moved to secondary, I was usually given two to five pieces of homework per week. Once I was in secondary, this became six or seven. Most of the time, it was finishing work that hadn’t been completed in class or revision for tests.

My advice to keep up with homework is don’t leave it to the last minute! Set aside time for it on days when you’re not doing anything after school.

Different rules and more responsibility

Secondary schools can have over 1,000 pupils, so there are more rules. Sticking to rules is generally a good idea, even though it sounds obvious. If your school has a student council, you can join it and bring up any rules you’re not happy about.

You’ll also get more responsibility. For example, you’ll do class projects with little input from the teacher and you might go out of school for lunch. Try to be as responsible as you can – your teachers will trust you more!

Making new friends

When I moved to secondary, I went to a different school to all of my friends. This meant I didn’t really know anyone when I started.

But people still spoke to me and never left me on my own. I’ve now made new friends. It may take some time but it’ll definitely happen, even if you know nobody at the start.

Here are my top tips to get used to life as an S1

1. Try to do your homework first thing in the evening and don’t leave revision until the last few days before a test.
2. If a teacher or staff member trusts you, don’t let them down. If you want to speak to them about something, do it respectfully.
3. Don’t expect secondary school to be brilliant right away, and don’t expect it to be too bad. It’s OK to make mistakes and there will always be something positive – whether that’s your friends, sports or a good subject.

We’re here to help you at secondary school

Did you know that every secondary school in Scotland has access to a careers adviser? Find out how they can help you make the most of your time at school to get into that job you dream about.

You have access to a careers adviser in school. They’ll give you space and time to explore your options and plan for your future beyond school in a confidential, non-judgemental environment.Maxine ScottCareers Adviser, Skills Development Scotland

And My World of Work has lots of tools and advice to support you as you move through school and beyond.

From planning your option choices to applying for your first job and making decisions about your future career, we’re here every step of the way.