Secondary school places: How to handle disappointment
March 3 is National Offer Day - the day that Year Six's across England and Wales find out what secondary school they are going to in September.If you are in Year 6, you and your parents/guardians will receive an email or letter with an offer from your new school.Last year, 83% of applicants in England got their first choice of school, and 94% of applicants got offers from one of their top three choices.However, some of you may find out you are going to a different school from the one you wanted to go to, or a different school to one where your friends are going.
Secondary school is a new start and can feel exciting but also might make you feel a bit nervous. Laverne Antrobus and Dr Radha Modgil shared some tips with Newsround about how to tackle any concerns you might have.
1. Take timeTake time to think about how you're feeling. "We can often feel the need to move on straight away or ignore our feelings, but if we take time to process them and talk them through, we can move forward in a healthier way," says Dr Radha.2. Some things are out of your controlLook at the decision as an "opportunity" not a "failure".Dr Radha says: "Nothing is ever a failure if it doesn't work out the way we want it to. It's actually an opportunity for things to move and develop in a new and potentially exciting way."Laverne says: "Don't be too quick to blame yourself when things don't happen the way you want them to. Sometimes things are simply out of your control."3. Talk it outTalking to an adult you trust about how you're feeling might make you feel better.Laverne says: "Don't bottle up these feelings, talk to friends and family as sad and angry feelings can be easier to manage when you talk about them."You can tell a friend, parent, teacher, or another trusted adult.
Whilst Year 6's in England and Wales will get offers today, it isn't the same for all children across the UK. In Scotland, no offers are made, as the decision is made by the council. And for pupils in Northern Ireland, you have a little bit longer to wait as places aren't sent out until 10 May. But if you did find out if you are going to your preferred today, or maybe you have some advice for those who haven't, share your thoughts in the comments below.
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