Changing grades and schools means nerves and new adventures

Hi everyone! My name’s Jake. I’m in Year 8 now, but it feels like just yesterday I was in your shoes, feeling all the nerves about starting a new grade next year and moving schools. I remember those thoughts: What if it’s too hard? What if I get lost? What if the older kids don’t like me? Will I make new friends? Trust me, I know how scary it can feel, but here’s the secret … everyone feels that way! You’re not alone, and those worries are completely normal.

One thing I’ve learned is that starting a new grade, changing schools and moving to high school are all adventures — full of new experiences, challenges and exciting opportunities. Sure, it’s a big change, but it’s also a chance to discover new things about yourself, make awesome new friends and learn skills that will help you grow.

Let’s be real: any big change can make you feel anxious. I felt it too. But here’s the thing about nerves: they’re kind of like your body’s way of getting you ready for something important. Whether you’re moving grades, changing schools, or heading to high school, it’s a big step, but those butterflies in your stomach mean that you care. And it’s okay to feel a little nervous about the unknown.

In fact, did you know that even adults feel this way when they try something new? The good news is that nerves don’t last forever. Soon, you’ll be so caught up in all the fun and new experiences that you’ll forget you were ever worried at all.

Okay, so now that we’ve talked about nerves, let me share the best part about my big change: high school is packed with new opportunities. You’ll get to try subjects you’ve never even heard of, join cool activities and make new friends who might become your best mates for life. There are more sports teams, creative projects and leadership roles to explore. You get to choose what you want to learn and discover what you’re passionate about.

Starting high school also means more independence and responsibility. You’ll have more control over your time, and while that might sound a bit overwhelming, it’s actually really exciting. You’re growing up, and this is your chance to show what you can do.

Since World Mental Health Day is on Thursday 10 October, it’s a great time to remember how important it is to take care of our minds, especially during big transitions like moving to a new grade or school or into high school. It’s normal to feel stressed, but there are ways to manage it. Talk to someone, whether it’s a teacher, a friend, or your parents or carers. You’ll be surprised at how much better you’ll feel when you share your thoughts and feelings.

Life Ed’s Guide to Thrive is full of awesome activities to help you prepare for change, and high school. Teachers can run sessions that build your confidence and teach you skills to manage change. There are fun challenges to help you practice time management, staying organised, and even making new friends. Starting these activities early means you’ll feel more prepared and supported, even as you change grades, or move to high school.

It’s super important to start talking about these changes, or your transition to high school early. The sooner you ask questions and voice your worries, the better prepared you’ll be. And remember, support doesn’t stop once you enter high school; parents and carers, teachers and friends are there to help you long after you’ve started.

So don’t be afraid to get excited about high school. Yes, there will be challenges, but there are also incredible opportunities ahead. High school is a new chapter, and it’s going to be a great one.

Check out some of the activities on the Life Ed Guide to Thrive website that you can do with your teacher, parents or carers.

Good luck – you’ve got this!

Jake