Transitioning into a New School Year with Confidence

As the Head of Counselling here at Arndell Anglican College I’ve had the privilege of working across all age groups, from Pre-Kindergarten to Year 12, providing therapeutic support, life skills guidance, and facilitating workshops, programs, and psychometric assessments.

Most recently, I’ve enjoyed meeting the new families joining us for Pre-Kindergarten and Kindergarten, as well as those coming into Years 1–6 for 2025.

Transitioning into a new school year can bring a mix of excitement and nerves, but with a little preparation, it can be a smooth process for students and parents alike. Here are some helpful tips for making the transition as stress-free and successful as possible!

Tips for Students:

Be Prepared the Night Before - Pack your school bag and lunchbox the evening before, and lay out your uniform and shoes. This small habit can save time and reduce stress on school mornings, helping you start your day calmly and confidently.

Get a Good Night’s Sleep - Rest is essential for focus and energy during the day. Make sleep a priority, especially in the days leading up to the first day of school.

Know Your Timetable (for Secondary Students) - Familiarise yourself with your schedule, classes, and any specific materials needed for each subject. This will help you feel more confident and organised.

Tips for Parents:

Check in with Your Children - Ask how they’re feeling about the new school year. It’s normal to feel a bit nervous, and normalising those emotions can help ease their anxiety - and yours!

Make the Morning Fun - Turn the car ride to school into a positive experience by playing music or having a lighthearted conversation. A quick hug, kiss, and goodbye at drop-off can help set a positive tone for their day.

Prepare Ahead for Uniforms - In the weeks leading up to school, ensure uniforms and shoes fit well. If new items are needed, book an appointment with the College Uniform Shop by clicking here.

Enjoy the Holidays!

The holiday break is a wonderful time to relax and recharge. However, in the last couple of weeks before school resumes, begin re-establishing sleep and waking routines to make the transition back to school smoother.

End-of-Year Events

We look forward to seeing you at our upcoming End-of-Year Presentations! Keep an eye on the Weekly Bulletins, sent out each Friday afternoon, for all the details.

Wishing you all a joyful holiday season and a confident start to the new school year!

Ms Anna Ponnudurai
Head of Counselling

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