Transitioning to High School: Adjusting to New Academic Expectations

For many students, the jump from primary to high school is significant — and one of the biggest changes is the increased workload and higher expectations. According to Aussie Edu Hub’s resident education expert, Dr Selina Samuels, understanding and preparing for these changes can make the transition much smoother for both students and parents.

Starting high school is often exciting, but it can also feel overwhelming — especially for students moving to a completely new school. Most Year 7 students will quickly notice that they’re expected to do and know much more than in primary school. Beyond just the academic shift, the way students are expected to manage their school life is also very different.

Some students discover that their primary school experience didn’t fully prepare them for secondary curriculum demands, leaving them to catch up on key skills or knowledge. Even high-achieving students may find certain new subjects challenging. Navigating a broader range of subjects requires organisational skills that many are still developing. In high school, there’s an expectation of greater independence — meeting deadlines and managing homework without constant reminders.

Another adjustment is moving from having one main teacher who knows them well to multiple subject teachers. While there may be a form teacher or year advisor, students often worry about not being fully “known” by each teacher, which can feel unsettling at first.

Homework: A Bigger Role in Learning

Homework generally increases in high school, and while it’s sometimes debated, research shows that secondary school homework can improve learning outcomes by up to five months. The most effective homework helps students both practise and apply class learning, as well as prepare for upcoming lessons.

For maximum benefit, homework should be integrated into each student’s learning plan and accompanied by regular teacher feedback. However, the extra workload can put pressure on both the student and the household, making it important to set aside dedicated time and space for learning at home.

Tips for Navigating the Transition

• Identify the real challenge – If your child says they “don’t understand” classwork, find out if it’s the subject matter itself or the new level of self-management that’s overwhelming them.
• Introduce assessment skills early – While the ATAR is years away, learning how to prepare for tests and assignments now will pay off later. If assessments cause anxiety, remind your child that progress matters more than perfection, and mistakes are learning opportunities.
• Address skill gaps promptly – The longer gaps in knowledge go unaddressed, the harder they are to close.
• Support social adjustment – Being the youngest in the school can be socially challenging. Until your child has a friend group — even just one close friend — social stress can distract from learning.
• Monitor homework time – For Year 7, aim for no more than one hour per night. If your child is doing much more or much less, clarify the school’s expectations.
• Create strong routines – Establish a comfortable, consistent study space, ideally in a common area, and set a regular time for homework each day.
• Maintain a positive outlook – Change can be intimidating, but it’s also a chance for growth. Your attitude toward the transition can significantly influence how quickly your child adapts.

Final Thought
High school is a big step for both students and families. By recognising the shifts in academic expectations, building effective routines, and supporting both the academic and social aspects of the transition, you can help your child approach these years with confidence and resilience.