Year 6 - 7 Primary Transition

Transition to secondary school is such an important and momentous journey and we value this and always try to offer a comprehensive transition package that sets the highest expectations for our students, embeds our core values and gives them a friendly, warm, engaging welcome to the Chelmer Valley family.

It appears this year’s Transition journey will again be slightly more restricted than usual. There are still a number of restrictions placed on schools and this will obviously impact on what can be delivered this year. 

What is certain is that we still want to offer the best, most meaningful Transition that we can in these circumstances. We have created a special section within this area (click here) that will contain useful information and resources for both you and your child/children as currently we will be unable to meet face to face. Information regarding this will be communicated with you as much as possible.

If you have any questions regarding transition, Chelmer Valley or any other query, please get in touch with the school and we will be happy to assist.

Contact details:

Mrs M McCorry – mmccorry@chelmer.essex.sch.uk

Mrs T Ratty – tratty@chelmer.essex.sch.uk

What is the school day like?

You are expected to be in school for 8.30am. Registration is at 8.35am. There are two one hour lessons from 9.00am. Break is between 11.00am and 11.30am, followed by another two, one hour lessons. Lunch is from 1.30pm to 2.10pm. Last lesson starts at 2.10pm until the end of the school at 3.10pm.

The school day changes a little when we have examinations going on but don’t worry, your tutor will let you know about that nearer the time.

You alternate between different “weeks”, week A and B. This is so that you can have a variety of different lessons; this also enables you to have lessons one a fortnight.

8:35 - 9am Registration/ Form time
9 -10am  Lesson 1
10 - 11am  Lesson 2
11 - 11:30am  Break Time
11:30am - 12:30pm  Lesson 3
12:30 - 1:30pm  Lesson 4
1:30 - 2:10pm  Lunch Time
2:10 - 3:10pm  Lesson 5

 

How do you find your way around the school?

Once you have got used to the school, finding your way will become much easier. You will receive a map of the school when you join. The school does operate a one way system in certain places but this is well signed-posted.

What do I need to bring on my first day?

On the first day, only Year 7 and Year 12 will be in. Year 7 will start by going to the school hall for an introduction, lasting one hour. You will then have one hour in tutor time when you will be given your timetable and other things such as your planner.

After this you will have break time and start with the three lessons that remain on that day.  You will need to bring in your writing equipment but not your P.E. kit.

On the second day the rest of the school comes back and you will follow your normal timetable after Period 1.

What do I do about food?

At break and lunch time you are allowed to eat in the school hall only, not outside. You can bring in a packed lunch or buy food from the school canteen. The school uses the Caterlink company who provide fresh, healthy food. We operate a cashless system called WisePay to purchase food.  Students have an online account  which should topped up on a regular basis.  A fingerprint scanner at the tills is used to pay for food.

What can you do at break/ lunch times?

At break and lunch times there are lots of different things to do. The school runs a variety of different lunch time clubs and activities. You can choose to go to one of these or you can go to the school hall where the canteen will be open for you to buy food. In the summer you can go onto the field, play football or for other games you can go to the playground.

Does the school offer any extra-curricular activities

There are lots of clubs and depending on the season, the extra curricular sessions change. Some of the clubs require an invitation, for example, you have to audition to get into the senior choir.

What are the transport options to and from school?

Depending on where you live, it is possible to qualify for free transport on one of the school buses. There are options where you can pay for the bus. The bus will come near to your house and pick you up, it then drops you at school in time for registration. The bus then leaves to take you home at the end of the day. Any transport queries should be forwarded to Mrs P Hill.

You can also make your own arrangements (car, walk etc). Please note if you are travelling by car - Parents/Guardians are not permitted to drop you off in the school grounds.

The school does have a bike shed which is locked during the day, where students may store their bikes. Remember that to ride to school you must wear a cycle helmet.

What do I need to bring to school on a daily basis?

On a daily basis you will be expected to bring in:

  • Diary
  • Exercise Books for that day
  • Completed Homework
  • 2 blue or black pens
  • 2 Pencils
  • Coloured Pencils
  • Ruler (30cm is best)
  • Protractor
  • Compass
  • Rubber
  • Pencil Sharpener
  • Calculator
  • Reading book

Obviously if you have Food Technology, PE, Computer Studies or other specific lessons, you will need to bring the right equipment for these lessons. A copy of this list can be found in the school planner once you receive one.

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