Starting A New Grade: Secondary Students’ Reflection

Starting secondary school brings new experiences, challenges and opportunities to learn. In their English blogs, EMASI Nam Long Secondary students share their first four weeks of the school year, reflecting on the adjustments they have made, the friendships they have built and the goals they have set for themselves.

A New School Year, A New Set of Challenges

Moving from Primary to Secondary means adapting to a different learning environment. Students describe getting used to new timetables, moving between classrooms for different subjects, remembering teachers’ names and keeping track of books and homework.

For some, the increased workload and more demanding lessons came as a surprise. Others found themselves working on skills beyond academic learning, from speaking confidently in front of the class to becoming more organized and managing their time effectively.

Their reflections offer an honest look at the transition to secondary education, including the moments that feel exciting, unfamiliar or challenging.

Learning to Adapt and Grow

As the first weeks passed, many students began to find their rhythm. They discovered new interests through subjects such as Science and STEM, reconnected with friends and made new ones, and explored extracurricular activities ranging from basketball and football to Taekwondo.

Some also identified personal goals for the year ahead, such as improving their grades, becoming more responsible with homework or developing better study habits. These small but meaningful steps reflect how students learn to take greater ownership of their learning and daily routines.

Student Voices, in Their Own Words

Written as part of their English learning, these blogs give students an opportunity to express their thoughts, practise writing and communicate their experiences to a wider audience. These activities also reflect the role of writing in developing literacy and communication skills, as highlighted by the National Literacy Trust.

Read the student blogs below to discover their first weeks of Secondary school through their own words, experiences and aspirations.

What does starting a new school year look like through a student’s eyes? Explore their stories below.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the transition from Primary to Secondary school like?

The transition to Secondary school often involves adapting to new teachers, subject-specific classrooms, different timetables and increased academic responsibilities. EMASI students describe how they gradually adjust to these changes during their first weeks.

2. What challenges do students face when starting Secondary school?

Students may need to manage a heavier workload, organise their books and homework, navigate different classrooms and adapt to more demanding lessons. Some also work on building confidence in class discussions and presentations.

3. How can students prepare for Secondary school?

Students can start by checking their timetables regularly, preparing their school bags in advance, keeping track of homework and test dates, and asking teachers or classmates for help when needed. Developing these habits can make the transition easier.

4. How does writing help students express themselves in English?

Writing gives students opportunities to organise their thoughts, practise vocabulary and grammar, and communicate personal experiences in English. Through their blogs, EMASI students reflect on their learning, friendships, challenges and goals in their own words.

Have questions about EMASI Nam Long’s Secondary students’ learning pathway or other programs? Send us a message: