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Building confidence

Having fun

Encouraging growth mindsets

Sparking curiosity

Teaching & learning for the 21st century

Alumni Story 9

Pupil in green school uniform.

How did you feel before you started at your new school?

Before I started at my new school, I felt a mix of excitement and nerves. I was eager to meet new people and take on new challenges, but also a bit anxious about adjusting to a new environment. Overall, I was looking forward to the experience.

How did you feel after your first day at your new school?

After my first day at the new school, I felt a mix of overwhelm and excitement. There was a lot to absorb, but I was eager to meet new people and adjust to the unfamiliar routine. Overall, I left feeling optimistic and positive about the experience ahead.

Are you used to your new uniform and routine?

Yes, it was pretty easy to adapt. It naturally got more comfortable each day. The routine is quite different, though I’m adjusting pretty well.

What are the biggest differences between West Lodge and your new school?

The biggest difference, I think, is the level of responsibility I’m taking. My new school feels much bigger, with more students and teachers to connect with, and a wider range of subjects. There’s also more independence, like moving between classrooms for different lessons and managing my own schedule. The workload is definitely more demanding too.

What did you learn at West Lodge that has helped you in your first weeks at secondary school?

At West Lodge, I learned how to stay organised, manage my time efficiently, and build confidence in asking for help when needed, which made adjusting to secondary school much easier.

Which of your learning powers have you used most at secondary school?

I have used resilience the most so far. It reminds me not to give up whenever I come across a challenge. In my secondary school there is a wider variety of subjects, and each subject requires more detailed understanding and critical thinking. Therefore, resilience helps me a lot in focusing and solving problems independently.