How QEH Supports New Starters at Every Age

Starting a new school is a big step, whether you are seven or seventeen. At QEH, we understand the importance of helping pupils feel secure, confident and supported from their very first day. With new joiners arriving at various stages, from Year 3 in the Junior School to Year 7 in the Senior School and Sixth Form, our experienced staff provide tailored support to make each transition smooth and positive. Friendly Tutor groups, engaging taster events and a culture of care all help pupils settle quickly and feel at home.

Year 3: Laying Strong Foundations

Joining a new school at age seven is a big milestone. At QEH Junior School, our Year 3 team creates a nurturing, structured environment where children can grow in confidence and curiosity. Class sizes are small and every child is known well by their teachers.

Learning is built around discovery, creativity and strong routines that help children feel safe and secure. Communication with parents is a priority, ensuring families feel involved and reassured during the transition. Forest school sessions introduce outdoor learning in a gentle and engaging way, helping pupils develop independence and teamwork right from the start.

By the end of their first term, pupils are not just settled, but excited about each new day at school.

Year 7: A Confident Step into Senior School

The move from primary to secondary education is a significant change. At QEH, we offer a structured transition programme that begins in the summer term before pupils join. Welcome events provide early opportunities to meet future classmates and key staff, helping to ease any nerves ahead of September.

Before the school year begins, all new Year 7 pupils attend a dedicated welcome day. They have the school to themselves alongside their teachers, giving them time to explore, build friendships, and feel at home. Early in the autumn term, the entire year group also takes part in an adventure weekend away: a fun and active way to strengthen bonds and start the year with confidence.

On arrival in September, they are assigned a Form Tutor who sees them every day and gets to know them well. Pupils also benefit from our Peer Supporter Programme. Each pupil is paired with a Sixth Form mentor, meeting weekly in small groups to build confidence, share advice, and feel supported by an older role model. 

Beyond academic preparation, we place a strong emphasis on pastoral care. Our team supports pupils emotionally and socially, helping them feel confident and included. You can read more about our Senior School pastoral care and how we ensure every pupil feels part of the community from day one.

By creating this supportive structure, pupils are able to adjust quickly, form friendships, and begin making the most of all the opportunities that QEH has to offer.

Sixth Form: Independence with Individual Support

Sixth Form often brings a mix of excitement and nerves, which is perfectly normal. Our co-educational Sixth Form programme offers a friendly, inclusive environment that balances academic challenge with excellent pastoral support.

New students are welcomed into a year group where independence is encouraged, but never at the expense of feeling supported. Dedicated Tutors provide ongoing one-to-one guidance, whether it is to help with managing workload, explore university options, or deal with the step up in expectations.

Outside the classroom, Sixth Formers take part in leadership roles, community projects, and enrichment activities that help them prepare for life beyond school. You can find out more about Sixth Form life at QEH here.

For those arriving from different schools, there is a clear focus on helping them settle in quickly, both academically and socially, so they feel just as much a part of the QEH community as those who have been here for years. Year 12 is one of our main entry points, we welcome new students from all over the city. In September 2025 girls and boys joined us from 23 different schools.

Parent and Community Engagement

Supporting new starters goes beyond the classroom. QEH works closely with parents to provide reassurance and open communication during key transition stages. Whether it is a welcome meeting for Year 3 families, regular Tutor feedback in Year 7, or individual consultations in the Sixth Form, the school values strong partnerships with families.

This commitment reflects wider educational guidance, such as the YoungMinds advice on supporting school transitions, which highlights the importance of a joined-up approach between home and school.

A Warm Welcome at Every Stage

Transitions can feel daunting, but at QEH, they are handled with care, structure, and kindness. From the boys joining in Year 3 to new Sixth Form students, every individual is welcomed into a community that sees their potential, supports their journey, and helps them grow.

If you would like to learn more about joining QEH at any stage, visit our admissions page for further details.