My DS is in Year 7 now. PM me if you like but a few things:
There is a big focus on being kind and respectful to each other. My DS loves this as he felt there was a bit of a 'boys will be boys' attitude at his primary school. He also loves how much everybody wants to learn.
My DS found it a steep learning curve in terms of organisation as he wasn't used to remembering so many things, but the school is very understanding about this period of transition. By the first half term though, they will be expected to be organised and there'll be less leniency if they are forgetful.
The lessons are brilliant. My DS has come alive with all the learning. He has so much to talk about at the end of each day. As well as the lessons, there are many optional competitions and challenges to engage them: enterprise, music, chess, STEM, poetry... just a few of the ones so far this year. The extracurricular in general is also great but he obviously only had a term of that. He still managed to play in ensembles, play football for the school's C team (they have A-E teams, so very inclusive), attend debating club, choir, ecology club, politics club, science club and Chess club.
There were two other boys from his school but they don't tend to be put together in form because most boys will not come with friends. He is really happy there and can't wait to get back next week to see his friends (although the home learning has been excellent and I don't think his learning has been hampered at all).
Well done to your son. 