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How to settle in at school
School is a big part of life, so it’s important to feel happy there. If you’re feeling worried about school, there are things you can do to make it better.
Going back to school
Going back to school can bring up lots of feelings. You might be happy to go back, wish you were still at home or want to be somewhere else completely. You might be wondering – or be worried – about:
- what the school will be like – if you’re starting a new school
- how you’ll find the work, including homework, and how you’ll be assessed
- seeing friends again, and how to make friends at school
- being bullied
- starting a new morning and evening routine
- how to deal with exam stress
- coping away from home
- keeping safe at school, and on the way there and back.
You might also be worried about problems at home getting worse when you return to school. Whatever’s worrying you about school, we can help.
6 tips to help you settle in at school:
- talk to a teacher, parent or carer
- talk to Childline
- find how to be assertive so you can stand up for yourself
- use the Art box to draw a picture of how you feel and what you want to change.
- read our top tips for making friends.
Building your confidence about homework and revision
Studying, homework and revision are all part of going to school. But what if you don’t understand things?
There are a few ideas you could try:
- tell a teacher – they might be able to explain things differently or arrange extra support
- ask a brother or sister – they might be able to help, especially if they’ve studied that subject before
- talk to your parents or carers – if you’re worried, try writing down your thoughts before you speak to them
- contact Childline – there are lots of ways you can get in touch with us
Five things you could try
School might seem very different since you’ve been back, and how you feel about it might have changed too. Here are some ideas to help you get settled and feel more confident.
Write down your worries and hopes
Write down everything you’re looking forward to at school, and everything you’re worried about. You could show the list to an adult you trust so that they can help you cope with the worries.
Ask questions
Ask your parents, carers or teachers about anything you’re not sure about. You could ask about things you’ll need at school, who will be in your lessons or anything else that’s on your mind.
Use routines to help you prepare
It can help to stick to a routine each morning and evening, to help you get used to being back at school. Writing it down might help you remember.
Every evening, you could make sure your bag is ready for the next day, and your uniform too (if you wear one).
If you’re not used to getting up early, it can help to start setting an alarm and going to bed earlier before you start back. If you do things in the same order every morning, they'll be easier to remember.
Keep a journal
Writing a journal can help you to let your feelings and worries out. Why not use it to write about how you’re feeling before going to school, and how it’s gone after.
Take your time
It can take time to adjust to being back at school, and it’s okay if it doesn’t feel comfortable at first. Even when you’re back at school, make time every day to do something you enjoy.
