Before you start

• Does your child have allergies, a health condition or additional needs? If so, talk to the high school principal as soon as possible.
• Encourage your child to participate in any transition to high school program offered to them.
• Buy school uniforms, books, stationery, school bag, drink bottle, house key and any other supplies.
• Label everything.
• Break in school shoes to make them more comfortable.
• Practise travelling to and from school with your child using their new mode of transport or travel route.
• Teach them how to use their transport app and read the timetable for the bus, train or ferry as appropriate.
• Join your school and the department on social media to get all the updates.
• Apply for a school Opal card if needed. Go to apps.transport.nsw.gov.au/ssts or phone 131 500.

At high school orientation

• Find out about school uniforms (including sports uniforms) – where and when to buy them.
• Get a map of the school to identify buildings, entry points and bike racks.
• Note school start and finish times.
• Get details on programs the school offers.
• Make a list of book packs and school supplies.
• Learn how you can become involved in the school.
• Meet the Year 7 adviser.
• Connect with other parents on social media.
• Find out whether your child requires a device such as a laptop.
• Find out the school’s position on mobile phones and discuss it with your child.

At home

• Talk positively to your child about the move to high school.
• Ask them what’s exciting about high school. Does anything worry them?
• Make sure your child has a quiet work area and extra stationery supplies.
• Organise personal hygiene items in school bags.
• Decide what your child will do before and after school, and what time they need to be home.
• Discuss emergency and safety issues with them.
• Remind them they can always speak to the counselling staff at their school.
• Discuss the dangers of being distracted when crossing the road or riding – including talking and texting on the phone, and wearing headphones.
• Work out a backup plan in case their travel routes change or they miss their transport

The first day

• Help set your child’s alarm. Encourage them to get themselves ready on time.
• Provide your child with money and your contact numbers in case of emergencies.
• Make sure you have the school’s phone number with you.
• Pack a healthy lunch or encourage healthy choices if your school has a canteen. Find out more about Healthy School Canteens.

The first week

• Photocopy school timetables to place in school diaries, inside locker doors and on the fridge.
• Remind your child to note all assignments, homework and events in their diary.
• Check through the timetable each night while your child packs their bag. Encourage your child to eat healthy food and get a good night’s sleep.
• Give the school your current contact details.