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A look into the exciting start of the new school year.

Harris Girls’ Academy East Dulwich have officially welcomed their new cohort of Year 7 students, who were nervous yet excited to start their secondary school adventure.

It was our priority to ensure that Year 7 have the smoothest transition from primary school to Harris Girls’ Academy East Dulwich. To achieve this, we gave them their own transition day at the start of the school year, to familiarise themselves with the school layout and their teachers.

The two key worries that many Year 7’s face, are that they will not make any friends, and they will get lost around the school. To combat these anxieties Harris Girls’ Academy East Dulwich put each student into Coaching Groups, which provides a set time for them each day to discuss non-academic aspects of school.

‘I was worried that I would get really lost and be late to my lessons.’ - Emily

The Coaching Groups are a brilliant way for students to make friends and build a strong connection with their Coach. It is a safe space to ask questions and air any concerns they may have about their new school.

During their transition day, Year 7’s had a tour around the school and experienced a taster lesson, so that they could get a comfortable feel about how their day would look. This was a great opportunity for us to outline our values and our expectations from each student.

‘Coaching sessions help to gel closer into your group.’ - Khulud

Harris Girls’ Academy East Dulwich have a clear mission to develop students with ‘Character, Courage and Conscience’, to implement in their academic and personal success. This mission applies to our Year 7’s from day one, to instil excellence and resilience in themselves.

Coaching time also focused on friendship building, during the early stages of transition. This involved running fun games and team building exercises, which were a great way to make the girls laugh and break the ice amongst their peers.

‘I am excited for the residential trip to make more friends.’ - Naomi

The girls are officially in the buzz of Harris Girls’ Academy East Dulwich life, having formed some reliable relationships with each other and the wider school community. However, there are still many opportunities and enrichment activities for our students to look forward to.

There are wide range of clubs available, from Finance to Chess, and Glee to Volleyball. What is particularly special about our volleyball team is that we have our very own specialist volleyball coach, which ensures the girls are receiving the highest standard of training.

‘I want to do more of the sports I want and get into the leagues.’ - Aaliyah

Health and wellbeing are also our priority at Harris Girls’ Academy East Dulwich, which we highlight to all our students at the start of the academic year. The Health Hut is a space that is open for students to come and relax and speak to our Health Hut Manger, Ms Murray-Thompson. We organise special year 7 coaching sessions in the Health Hut, for them to familiarise themselves with the space and speak to someone about their transition.

We look forward to continuing our journey with the near Year 7’s and to watching them get involved in everything Harris Girls’ Academy East Dulwich has to offer!