RSBC's top 10 tips for blind and partially sighted children starting secondary school

Moving from primary school to secondary school is a big step. Many children and young people feel excited about starting Year 7, but it is also totally normal to feel nervous.

For blind and partially sighted young people, the move can bring extra worries. A new school may be bigger, busier and unfamiliar. The good news is that there are lots of ways to prepare and plenty of support available.

So here are ten practical tips from our Family Practitioners to help make your transition to secondary school easier.

1. Talk about any worries you have

If you are feeling anxious about starting secondary school, try writing down your worries and talking them through with a parent, carer or trusted adult.

Sharing concerns can help you feel less overwhelmed and may lead to practical solutions.

2. Focus on your strengths

Think about the skills and qualities that have helped you succeed at primary school.

For example, you might be:

·        Good at asking for help

·        Independent and organised

·        Confident meeting new people

·        Determined when facing challenges

Remember that these strengths will help you in secondary school too.

3. Make a list of what you are looking forward to

Starting secondary school is not just about challenges.

You might be excited about:

·        New subjects

·        New friends

·        School clubs

·        Greater independence

·        Learning new skills

Writing down the positives can help balance any worries.

4. Get organised before your first day

Most secondary schools provide a list of equipment, uniform and supplies you'll need.

Getting everything ready in advance can help reduce stress and make you feel more confident when term starts.

5. Learn your route to school

If you will be travelling independently, practise the journey before your first day.

You could:

·        Visit the route with a parent or carer

·        Learn key landmarks

·        Familiarise yourself with public transport options

A Habilitation Officer may also be able to support you with mobility and independent travel skills.

6. Get to know your new school layout

Many schools offer transition days, maps and virtual tours.

Before you start:

·        Explore the school website

·        Review maps of the site

·        Visit key areas if possible

Some schools may also allow blind and partially sighted students to leave lessons a few minutes early to move around more safely between classes.

Top tip: The Clew app can help blind and partially sighted people record and follow routes indoors.

7. Ask for help when you need it

Getting lost during the first few weeks is completely normal.

Starting secondary school takes time and nobody expects you to know where everything is straight away.

Teachers, support staff and other students can help you find your way around.

8. Know what support is available

Your Qualified Teacher of Vision Impairment (QTVI) should visit you after you start secondary school.

You should also know who your school's Special Educational Needs and Disabilities Coordinator (SENDCo) is.

These professionals can help with:

·        Learning materials are accessible

·        Teachers understand your needs

·        Reasonable adjustments are in place

9. Give yourself time to make friends

Making new friends does not happen overnight.

Try to:

·        Join clubs linked to your interests

·        Say hello to new people

·        Start conversations where you can

Many young people find friendships grow naturally over time.

10. Stay connected with old friends

If your primary school friends have gone to different schools, try to keep in touch.

Regular catch ups can provide reassurance while you settle into your new environment and build new friendships.

What should you do if you're struggling to settle into secondary school?

Many blind and partially sighted children feel unsettled during the first few weeks of secondary school. This is completely normal.

If you are finding things difficult:

·        Talk to your parents or carers

·        Speak to your form tutor

·        Contact your QTVI or SENDCo

·        Visit your school's wellbeing or pastoral support team

·        Reach out to us at RSBC

Remember that adjusting to a new school takes time. Things often become easier as you get to know your surroundings, develop routines and make new connections.

Support for blind and partially sighted children and young people

At RSBC, we support blind and partially sighted children, young people and families across England and Wales.

Whether you're preparing for secondary school, building confidence or looking to connect with other young people who understand your experiences, we're here to help.

Find out more about RSBC's services and support for children, young people and families.