Moving from Primary to Vale of York Academy

Starting secondary school is a big step for your child. In most instances, they will be moving from being the oldest in a small school to the youngest in a much bigger school. Some children will be moving with friends and classmates from primary school; others may not know anyone in their new school. For all children, there will be a lot to take in and to learn, particularly in the first few weeks.

We want all students who choose Vale of York Academy to get used to their new routines and school organisation with great ease; develop new friendships and improve their self-esteem and confidence. In order to prepare them for this transition process, we normally have an intensive programme in place throughout year 5 and year 6, in conjunction with our primary feeder schools.

This year, we are all living, working and learning in unprecedented times, so we know there will be lots of questions about how we can provide a smooth and effective process of transition from primary to secondary school this summer. Please rest assured that we are making every effort to ensure the process continues under these very different circumstances. 

Important information 

Please take a look at the following information:

• Letter from the Principal – the first in a series of letters to our new Year 7 students and their parents/carers
• Admission Form for new students – parents/carers should complete and return this form by email to: transition@voy.hslt.academy 
• City of York Council have also provided this useful information for parents/carers: www.york.gov.uk/guideforparents
• Transition Guide 2023-24 – essential information to help students and parents during the transition from primary to secondary school 
• SEND booklet – Special Educational Needs and Disability Support at Vale of York Academy
• Music Tuition Letter

Moving to Vale of York Academy

We hope you enjoy this video message from our Transition Lead, Mr Orr. 

Important Dates

Tuesday 5 July – Transition Evening

During this evening you will have the opportunity to watch presentations from key staff at the school including the Principal and your Progress Leader. This evening will be your chance to find out everything you need to know about joining the school and of course, you’ll get the chance to ask any questions you may have too.

Wednesday 6 July – Transition Day. This is a city-wide event where all Year 6 children go to their new secondary school.

Thursday 7 and Friday 8 July. Two further transition days where your child will attend Vale of York and start to experience lessons and the daily life of the academy. These days will help parents too, as your child will enjoy the summer break having experienced a good amount of time at the academy prior to the September start.

Please also be aware that we shall be holding a Year 7 residential at the YMCA at Newby Bridge in the Lake District from Wednesday 21st to Friday 23rd September 2022 

Primary taster events

We run a full programme of Primary Taster events which happen throughout the year, so that your child can get a really good feel for Vale of Academy. Hopefully your child will have had the opportunity to take part in our programme this year. 

Links with feeder primary schools

We also sustain strong links with our partner primary schools. Our facilities, for example our Technology rooms, the Astro Turf and our music equipment, are available to partner schools. Our staff also host master classes for students throughout the school year. This is a great aid to the ‘familiarisation’ process.