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Year 6 Transition

At Atherton High School, we understand that the transition from primary school to high school can be a very big step for both pupils and parents/carers. We have built, and continue to build a strong working relationships with our local primary schools, in order to make sure that the transition process is as smooth as possible. Throughout the year we make sure that pupils and parents are welcomed through our doors, whether this be during school taster days, open day, personal guided tours, additional SEN taster days, transition days and parents evenings.

After we have received all of our admission information from the local authority in March, transition booklets are sent home for our Year 6 pupils to complete. Activities include: getting to know me, goal setting, a creative writing task and what do you want to know about Atherton High?

This booklet is a great starting point in getting to know pupils and allowing them to voice any questions or concerns they may have. We send out a second booklet in June, which includes more transition activities as well as a key staff document and ‘The Atherton Challenge.’ This challenges pupils and gives them an insight into work that is planned for year 7.

We believe that the very best way to get a feel for the school and find out more is to come and visit us during the school day. The Head of Year will show you around with the assistance of a Year 7 pupil. This will give you the vital opportunity to see the school and our pupils on a normal working day. Having a pupil present will also allow you to ask any questions in relation to school life at Atherton High School.

Your Path to Atherton High…

We know preparation is key, so here’s what to expect from the time you receive your school allocation, to the 1st day at Atherton High School.

March Introduction from Our Headteacher A personal letter to welcome you and outline what to expect in the coming months.
Welcome Pack Sent As well as a Microsoft form to complete with your details, this includes key information about Atherton High School, uniform guidelines,  important forms, and key dates for the year.
Parental Drop-in Parental Drop-in to meet key pastoral staff, complete data forms and meet the SENCO .

Monday 30th March 4-5pm OR Tuesday 31st March 4-5pm
Tours and Meet the Headteacher Students and parents/carers are invited to organise individual tours and meet with Mrs Turner (March – July available).
Information Gathering Mr McKie (Head of Transition) starts the work on gathering academic, personal and character information from Year 6 teachers.
April – May Visits from Head of Transition or Head of Year 7 Mr McKie visits each primary school to meet students and discuss more vulnerable students’ needs with primary school staff, including support staff and SENDCO.
June Parent Information Evening An in-person session to discuss timetables, transport, uniform, and how we support students during the transition and throughout their journey at Atherton High School.

  • Monday 29thJune 6-7pm – Red and Green Form Pupil and Parent Evening
  • Tuesday 30thJune 6-7pm – Yellow and Blue Form Pupil and Parent Evening
July Transition Day We are excited to invite external prospective students to our Transition Day. Our Transition Day runs from 9.00am to 2:50pm and offers children a fun, engaging, and hands-on experience of life at Atherton High School – including the chance to meet potential future classmates along the way.

  • Wednesday 1st July 1:30-2:50pm Additional SEN transition afternoon (invitation only)
  •  Thursday 2nd July: Transition Day is a full-day visit where students will meet their new classmates and teachers and get a taste of school life. (More information can be found in your welcome letter)
SEND transition coffee morning Coffee morning will be Friday 3rd July (invitation only)
August Final Reminders We’ll send out a reminder about start dates, uniform and equipment checks and what to bring on your first day.
Summer School

 24th – 27th August: Summer school helps smooth the transition by building confidence, making friends and getting familiar with the school building. It also reinforces key academic skills to ensure a strong start in September. Please complete the form with the student’s name and the dates they will be attending. Summer School sign up form (Please remember to pack a lunch.  This will be provided for Pupil Premium students)

“ Pupils are proud to attend Atherton High School. They value the positive relationships that they have with their teachers.”

Ofsted 2024