This is true for so many of our young people as the transition from Primary to Secondary is a very frightening experience. They have to make new friends, travel on their own, overcome the myths which surround going to "the big school", learn new subjects and become part of a new environment.

As part of our Full Service Extended School we listened to the concerns of the young people, their families and the Primary schools and from this we developed a transition programme which builds on current provision which incorporates 6 key areas:

Six Key Areas

• TRANSITION TEACHERS - We are the first school in Northern Ireland to employ two designated teachers who work in both the Primary and Secondary sectors. They are currently working in all of our feeder primary schools offering individual, small group, class and whole school teaching and support in ICT, Literacy, Numeracy, Music, Drama and Dance. After Christmas CPR will be introduced in partnership with the "Heartstart" programme. We also facilitate after school clubs for ICT, Drama, Dance and Music.
• SENTINUS DAY - We work in partnership with SENTINUS (an organisation which focuses on promoting science and technology in primary and secondary schools) to deliver a one day programme to girls in P7. The young people are transported to the Girls' Model with the aim being to make them more familiar with the school environment. Year 10 pupils are trained to work as peer mentors and work with the P7 pupils throughout the day. This is a fun, enjoyable and educational day which helps the young people to overcome some of their fears about transition.
• INDUCTION BOOKLET - A booklet has been compiled by the Transition Teacher to answer some of the most commonly asked questions. (Copy attached).
• YEAR 8 RESIDENTIAL - All of the girls are given the opportunity to go on a two day residential to Delamont during September. This enables the young people to have the opportunity to build relationships with their peers and form tutor. They follow a team and skills building programme whilst away.
• SUMMER SCHEME - A two week summer scheme was held during August for P7 and Year 8 pupils. A very extensive programme of sport, crafts, drama, trips etc was offered. This allowed the young people to meet staff, work in classrooms they will be using in September and to familiarise themselves with the school structure.
• ROCK BANDS - Our Head of Music is currently working with 3 of the local feeder primary schools to set up Rock Bands. The children are collected and brought to the Girls' Model, where they receive tuition. Equipment has been purchased and placed into the Primary schools so that the bands can perform in school assemblies and on special occasions. A celebration concert is to be arranged in May 2008 and parents, friends and community are to be invited. One pupil stated: "This is the best day of the week."

Our aim is to help the young people to overcome their fear of moving schools and to encourage them to settle into Year 8 more quickly. If a child is happy and ready to learn then they should achieve more both academically and personally.