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 letter to our new Year 7 students and their parents/carers (sent via email on 1 May 2020)
• Admission Form for new students – parents/carers should complete and return this form by email to: transition@voy.hlt.academy by Friday 15 May please.
• City of York Council have also provided this useful information for parents/carers: www.york.gov.uk/guideforparents
• Transition Guide – essential information to help students and parents during the transition to secondary school in these unprecedented times
• SEND booklet – Special Educational Needs and Disability Support at Vale of York Academy

Moving to Vale of York Academy

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

Virtual Transition Evenings

As we are unable to meet our new Year 7 students and their parents/carers in person, we held a series of virtual meetings using Zoom during the week commencing Monday 6 July.

These provide parents and students with information about the academy and arrangements for the start of next term, as well as providing an opportunity to ask questions.

Please see below for a recording of one of the sessions:

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.