Transition to high school

Starting high school is an exciting milestone for students and families. Moving from Year 6 to Year 7 can feel like a big change. We help every child feel confident and supported during the transition to high school.

Find out more in the Getting ready for high school guide.

What to expect in high school

High school brings new experiences and routines, including:

a larger school with more subjects, teachers and classrooms
a timetable with different lessons each day
moving between classrooms and carrying books and equipment
more independence and responsibility for homework and study
new friendships and opportunities to join activities and clubs.

Before your child starts at Fort Street High School

Getting ready at home

You can help your child prepare by:

talking positively about starting high school
buying and labelling uniforms, shoes, stationery and school supplies
checking if your laptop or device meets the minimum specifications
making sure they're aware of important school dates
practising their travel route to school
making sure they know your phone number and emergency contacts
encouraging routines such as packing their school bag
encouraging them to check their timetable and school bell times the night before day 1 of Term 1.
ensuring you are aware and up to date on school policies

For more advice, see the Getting ready for high school guide.

Enrolment process

Before your child begins, families may be asked to provide documents regarding the following:

medical conditions or allergies
family circumstances that may affect your child’s start
any learning or wellbeing needs.

We will also explain the supports our school provides, such as:

support for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students through personalised learning pathways
extra support for students learning English as an additional language or dialect (EAL/D)
support for students with disability or other learning needs through inclusive education programs.

Learn more about additional learning support and enrolment requirements at our school.

Our transition program

We work closely with local primary schools to help students feel ready. Our transition to high school programs help Year 6 students get ready for Year 7. Activities may include:

orientation days and school tours
parent information sessions and meet the teacher events
subject tasters and classroom visits
peer support activities with older students.

Students, parents and carers can join these sessions to learn about daily schedules, uniforms, lunches and communication. If you need an interpreter, let us know.