Starting Secondary school is a milestone moment. It’s a time filled with excitement, curiosity and, naturally, a few nerves too. At Alice Smith School, we know how important these first experiences are for our students. That’s why we begin every Year 7 journey with Thrive Week, a carefully designed programme to help students feel welcome, connected and confident as they step into this new chapter of their education.
Thrive Week blends fun activities and opportunities to get to know one another, making the transition into Secondary not only smooth but also inspiring. Here’s a look into what our Year 7s experienced during this action-packed week.
Building Connections
The week began with a warm Meet and Greet during Tutor Time, giving students the chance to meet their tutor, new classmates, and support staff. These sessions were more than ice-breakers; they set the tone for open communication and trust. Through Tutor Time Reflections, students explored their goals and aspirations, learning that everyone was on a similar journey.
A vibrant Launch Assembly in the Main Hall brought the entire cohort together, welcoming them into the Secondary community. With the introduction of key opportunities and the creation of a rubric for success, students began to see how they could shape their own learning pathways.
Exploring Digital Wellbeing
One of the highlights was the Introduction to Digital Wellbeing Day. Students were introduced to educators who will support them with devices and technology across Secondary. They also engaged in a series of workshops to understand more fully the challenges and joys of our modern world. By the end of the day, Year 7s not only understood how to use their technology effectively but also how to stay safe and balanced in the digital world.
Adventure and Team Spirit
A standout part of Thrive Week was the carousel of team-building activities during Relationships Day. Students rotated through sessions designed to challenge, excite and inspire:
- Paddleboarding fun encouraged trust and balance.
- Parkour promoted agility, confidence and risk-taking.
- Orienteering required teamwork and problem-solving.
- Mini Sports Day sparked energy and healthy competition.
- Classic team-building games built collaboration and laughter.
These experiences outside the classroom are just as important as the academic sessions, allowing students to make friends, discover strengths, and build resilience.
Learning the Ropes
Practical elements were woven into Thrive Week to ensure students felt at home in their new environment. From an Introduction to the Year 7 area and lockers to getting to know key support staff, every activity was designed to reduce uncertainty. Students quickly grew familiar with their spaces, routines and the people they could turn to for guidance.
Leadership also featured early on, with an Introduction to Leadership session. Students discovered how their voice matters, whether through class discussions, House activities or wider school initiatives.
Understanding Learning
One of the most meaningful parts of Thrive Week was the introduction of our Exploration Cycle for Learning. Students worked through this cycle as they explored what makes an effective learner. Activities like Speed Interviews helped them practise communication and empathy, while team activities encouraged them to be creative and collaborative throughout their learning experiences.
House Spirit and Belonging
At Alice Smith, Houses play a huge role in fostering friendship, competition and identity. Thrive Week introduced Year 7s to their Houses - Fairfield, Fleming, Muir and Scott - through interactive sessions in the sports halls and multipurpose spaces. From quizzes to collaborative challenges, students began to feel the spirit of belonging that comes with being part of something bigger than themselves.
Parents as Partners
Thrive Week also included parents, recognising that the transition to Secondary is a family journey. While students demonstrated their learning through activities like speed-build models and a gallery walk, parents joined a session on school communication and support. Together, families explored how to create a shared understanding of digital wellbeing and how to work in partnership with the school.
The week closed with a Celebration Assembly, where students reflected on their learning, achievements and new friendships. The sense of pride was palpable as they showcased what they had discovered, not just about the school, but about themselves.
Thrive Week is about more than settling into a timetable or finding a locker. It’s about sparking curiosity, building courage, and helping every child discover that they belong here. By the end of the week, our Year 7s were not only ready for the year ahead but also excited about the endless opportunities Secondary life offers.
We believe the first steps matter. Thrive Week ensures those steps are confident, connected and full of promise.