I'm really nervous about secondary school because it is huge! All of the big kids are so scary and I'm not sure I'll pluck up the courage to ask them where to go.
Hi there,
It is totally natural to have worries like this and many other young people will be feeling the same way. Starting anything new can be daunting and making the change to a new school can be filled with lots of good things and opportunities, as well as some challenges.
There are few things you can do to make the first few days easier: take part in any events going on to meet teachers or that help you familiarise yourself with the building and classes. Some schools operate a buddy system, with older pupils helping the newer ones to settle in. Try not to be afraid to ask for help - staff are there to help and support you, but they won't know what you need help with if you don't say - asking classmates for help can also be a great way to get to know others as well.
It can sometimes help to plan your day and practice things like asking for help so you can feel more confident when you are doing it. Asking for help from the big kids can seem scary but once you do it once it usually gets easier from there one and, you never know, you might even make a friend or two as well.
The good thing is that the more time you spend in a new school the familiar you will become with the layout, and it may not feel quite as big as it did on the first day!
Remember, it’s ok to be nervous and if you want to talk to someone about how you are feeling the counsellors at Childline are always there to listen and help.
Take care.
Sam
You can talk privately to a counsellor online or call 0800 1111 for free.
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