Successful Transition
Transitioning from primary to secondary school is an exciting milestone in every student’s educational journey. At Glenroy College, we understand that this change brings both new opportunities and challenges. Our transition program combines academic structure, wellbeing support and a strong sense of belonging to help each learner settle confidently into Year 7.
What’s Different
Some of the main differences between primary and secondary school are:
- A wider range of subjects and specialist teachers
- Higher expectations for independent learning and homework
- A faster pace of lessons and new routines to manage
- Schoolwork that encourages growth, deeper thinking and greater challenge
Students are supported to develop independence and responsibility by:
- Transitioning confidently between classrooms and teachers
- Arriving ready to learn for each lesson with the right materials and mindset
- Managing homework and study routines effectively, with access to our free after-school tutoring for additional support
- Communicating directly with teachers, seeking feedback and building positive relationships
- Engaging with our orientation, mentoring and wellbeing programs to strengthen confidence and connection
- Using technology responsibly through our Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) program.
- Participating in extracurricular activities, clubs and sports to build friendships and a sense of belonging
Preparing at Home
Families play an important role in supporting a smooth start to secondary school. Families can help students by:
- Establishing consistent homework and study routines – Year 7 students typically spend about 20 - 30 minutes each evening on homework and study
- Encouraging organisation - use a planner or digital calendar to track due dates, events and homework
- Supporting attendance - minimise unnecessary absences
- Promoting independence – encouraging students to communicate with teachers, pack their own bag and manage their schedule
- Setting up a healthy balance - plan time for sport, hobbies and rest alongside study
- Managing technology - create clear routines such as tech-free bedrooms after a certain time and agreed rules for device use at home
By working in partnership, we ensure every student experiences a positive, supported and successful transition into secondary school life at Glenroy College.
Welcome Evening
Our Welcome Evening marks the beginning of each student’s secondary school journey at Glenroy College. This event is designed to help families and students feel connected, informed and confident as they prepare for Year 7.
During the evening, families have the opportunity to:
- Meet the Principal, Year 7 Team, and key staff members
- Learn about our approach to learning, wellbeing, and student support
- Receive important information about daily routines, uniform, digital devices, and key dates
Orientation Days
Our two-day Orientation Program welcomes future Year 7 students to Glenroy College and helps them feel confident, connected and ready for secondary school.
Students take part in a range of engaging activities, including:
- A Welcome Assembly introducing the Year 7 team and our school values
- An Amazing Race adventure around the school — a fun, team-based challenge that helps students discover key areas and meet teachers along the way
- Getting-to-know-you activities that help students build friendships and connections
- Organisation sessions to help students prepare for the routines and expectations of secondary school
- A universal literacy assessment, where students complete short reading and writing activities that help teachers understand how best to support their learning from the very start
- Subject tasters offering a first experience of learning in specialist areas
In addition to the main program, Early Transition Days are offered for Solo Starters - students joining without primary school peers - and for students who may benefit from additional transition support. These smaller sessions provide extra time to explore the school, meet staff and build familiarity in a calm, welcoming environment. This inclusive approach ensures every student begins their journey at Glenroy College with a strong sense of confidence and belonging.
First Term
The First Weeks of Year 7
The beginning of the school year is an exciting time at Glenroy College as new Year 7 students settle into secondary school life. During these first few weeks, our focus is on building strong routines, positive relationships and confidence within the school environment.
First Day of Year 7
The first day of Year 7 begins with a Welcome Assembly in the Performing Arts Centre, where students are welcomed by key staff and learn about our school values. Students should attend in full school uniform and bring their laptop, planner and writing materials. For detailed uniform guidelines, please refer to the Uniform section on our website.
Year 7 Foundations Program
Following the initial Orientation Days, all Year 7 students take part in the Year 7 Foundations Program. This dedicated program runs during the first few weeks of Term 1 and supports students as they settle into secondary school expectations.
The program focuses on developing the skills and habits needed for success, including:
- Organisation and time management - learning how to use planners, prepare for lessons and manage materials effectively
- Learning and behaviour expectations – understanding what it means to be a Glenroy learner and how to contribute positively in class
- Study habits - developing routines for homework, revision and independent learning
- Resilience and wellbeing - building strategies to stay positive, manage challenges and support personal growth
The Year 7 Foundations Program ensures every student begins their secondary school journey with a strong foundation for learning, confidence and belonging.