Can you share any tips for how to prepare for and get the best out of Y7?

[AnxousAnnie]

Hi - I was just wondering if you could use your hindsight to tell me how to help DC get the best out of Y7 - what should they be doing over the summer? Any hints as to how to settle down socially and academically? What should they expect? What standard of work will they need to attain? Should I be working with them over anything in particular? Is there anything you know now which you wish you'd know then? DC going into a good state comp - but I've been told the adjustment to seniors can be tough so I just want to make sure that they make the most of it. Thank you!!

redhat It might be worth seeing how often the computer is needed for homework. In my school (I know that's not a broad picture, sorry!) I would say students need the computer perhaps 1 or 2 nights a week for homework (including all subjects) and then it's either to print off a worksheet or to do some internet research. Teachers are often wary of setting work that requires a computer as there tend to be more excuses for not doing it...

Computing / I.C.T. homework tends to be done in school as the school computers have the relevant software, or the teacher sets written homework e.g. evaluating what was done in the lesson.

Overall, I'd say it's better not to have the computer in the bedroom, but I do understand your point of view too. It might be that the computer isn't used that often for homework and therefore it's ok to have it in another room and just have the books on the desk in the bedroom (gives a bit more space as well).

DS started doing most of his homework at the kitchen table, using a pen and paper, and finished year 7 lying on his bedroom floor with a computer!

Teachers very happy with his homework in both cases, so I have no idea whether they set more computer stuff or whether he changed his way of working.

I also was not keen in computers in bedrooms, but when they have several hours to get through, I don't actually have a problem where it is done.

Cut out as many after school clubs as you can between September and Christmas. They are utterly utterly knackered in year 7 and this hits about 4 weeks in once the shine has gone. Be prepared for lots of tears. Plan for lots of down time and a really relaxing half term.