Primary school vs. secondary school: What to expect moving schools

Moving on from primary school to secondary is often an exciting and daunting time for both parents and kids as the prospect of a whole new experience looms. With the familiarity of primary school and all of their friends coming to an end, the prospect of secondary school is often one of mixed emotions. Primary school vs. secondary school brings both similarities and differences for kids and parents alike.

We’ve previously covered some tips for shifting back to school in the new school year to help manage nerves from both sides as it can often feel overwhelming for both parents and children. The jump to a new secondary school feels huge but there are some similarities and differences between primary and secondary school, which can also be comforting.

Our blog shares some of these similarities and differences to help ease into a new school and set expectations for both parents and children.

For anyone outside of the UK, primary school is the first school kids go to from the age of 4 to 11. Primary school is a great introduction to the world of education, with smaller classes and the core subjects of maths, english and science covered. Teachers will introduce children and parents to school life including homework, PE classes and school trips.

Secondary school is the next step in education for kids aged 11 to 16 and are typically much larger schools compared to primary schools. Secondary school teachers will teach a wider range of subjects and expect more independent learning from students. For parents, this might mean more homework being read through at home.

The transition from primary to secondary school is a big one and as parents, you’ll notice some big differences between the two for your child. There are, of course, some similarities that can help ease anxiety and make the move a smoother one for both of you.

For many kids, moving to secondary school in the same area will mean they move with some if not all of their school friends. Perhaps they’re moving to the same secondary school as their siblings or older friends too which will help ease them in as they’ll already know someone.

Homework is similar to that at primary school, where teachers will ask them to complete tasks or finish reading activities over the weekend. Secondary school will have the same expectations for homework, and often more of it – so don’t let that come as a surprise.

At secondary school, they’ll have a teacher who will remain as their class teacher throughout the school year, just like primary school. This is another positive similarity which will help kids transition into a bigger school with more subjects to learn as they’ll always have one teacher they can speak to or share concerns with.

Both primary and secondary schools have a uniform so children will be familiar with wearing one. Uniforms and other school essentials like shoes and school bags stay consistent throughout their school life which helps with setting expectations even when starting a new school.

There is more emphasis on independent learning at secondary school, with students being encouraged to read and research subjects in their own time.

Unlike primary school where teachers will teach more than one subject, secondary schools will have more subjects and teachers. Students will be expected to get to class on time and move between lessons promptly at secondary school too.

Secondary schools also have a great range of ‘extracurricular’ subjects for kids to enjoy such as extra sports lessons, food technology, graphics and woodwork classes. These are a great way for students to explore their creative sides and start developing interests in hobbies outside of the classroom.

There are many differences when exploring primary school vs. secondary school; whilst it’s a necessary move for all children, it’s also an exciting new chapter to embrace. Looking for more ideas? Read our Back to School hub for ways to help with perfecting the shift back to school, deal with back to school blues and get ready for homework and grades . Also if you’re looking for tips on How to give your child that crucial after-school independence, we’ve written a handy article to help you navigate their newfound freedom, giving tips on curfews and tracking apps to help settle your nerves.