Hi Sam. Basically i've been homeschooled since Covid and i used to love it, but i'd always get picked on a little for it. When your homeschooled everyone always assumes that your really dumb and don't do any work, which of course, isn't true. I did just as much work as everyone else. A little because of this, and because i wanted to make more friends (it can get a little isolated) i started signed up for secondary school. I wanted to get this opportunity for ages, and it took a long time for me to get, i would cry about it a lot, i was so desperate to go to school.
Anyway, i got in yesterday, and yesterday i loved it, but today, i'm just too overwhelmed. I do good in classes, but i find other things really hard and today, i've just been trying not to cry. Everything seems awful. Have i made the wrong choice? I just really miss my mum, and i want to go home.
Please help.
Sam
Hi there,
Starting secondary school after being homeschooled can feel like a big change. Lots of young people can feel worried or unsure starting somewhere new, but that doesn’t always mean you’ve made the wrong decision.
Homeschooling can feel safe and familiar when it’s been part of your life for a long time. Starting at a busy school can mean getting used to new routines, people, and sounds all at once. It’s natural for school to feel overwhelming at first, even when you’re excited to be there. Childline has loads of tips and advice for starting at a new school.
Sometimes people can feel pressure to prove themselves when they’ve been homeschooled. It’s also natural for people to have questions about what being homeschooled was like. No matter what other people might say, being homeschooled doesn’t mean someone isn’t smart or hard-working. When someone makes a false assumption about you then that’s completely their fault. Remember, being picked on is never okay, it’s a form of bullying and it’s not your fault.
While you’re adapting to your new school, it can help to plan for small things that offer comfort. This could be messaging home during breaks, taking something familiar to school with you, or setting goals for one thing to achieve each day. It’s also okay to check in with yourself about how things are going and what’s helping or making it harder. Big changes don’t have to feel perfect straight away. It can also help to be open with the adults in school who are there to support you. Sharing how you feel with a teacher, school nurse, or anyone you feel comfortable with can help you make plans for when things do feel overwhelming.
Take care,
Sam
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