Back To School

Starting the new school year!

Here are some tips to help you start the new school year smoothly and confidently:

1. Get Organised Early

• Set up your backpack, binders, or digital folders before the first week.

• Use a planner (physical or digital) to track assignments, deadlines, and activities.

2. Create Good Routines

• Go to bed and wake up at consistent times so mornings feel easier.

• Plan time for homework, relaxation, and hobbies— you’ll feel less stressed if you balance both.
  

3. Set Small Goals

• Academic: aim for steady improvement rather than perfection.

• Social: try talking to one new person in your class or at lunch.

• Personal: practice a healthy habit (like staying hydrated or limiting phone use before bed).
  

4. Prepare Your Space

• Organise your desk or study spot at home so it’s distraction-free.

• Keep supplies handy—pencils, chargers, sticky notes, etc.

5. Stay Open-Minded

• Teachers, classmates, and classes may be new and different- approach them with curiosity.

• If things feel overwhelming at first, remind yourself it’s normal to need time to adjust.

6. Build Positive Habits Early

• Keep up with homework before it piles up.

• Review notes a little each day instead of cramming before tests.

• Get involved in a club or activity you enjoy—it makes school feel more rewarding.
  

7. Take Care of Yourself

• Eat balanced meals (don’t skip breakfast if you can help it).

• Move your body daily, even if it’s just a walk.

• Check in with your mental health—talk to someone you trust if you’re stressed.

OK! Now, here's a First-Week-of-School Checklist you can follow:

Before School Starts

• Pack my backpack with supplies (notebooks, pens, planner, charger, etc.)

• Pick out first-day outfit / uniform and make sure it’s ready

• Set my alarm early enough for a calm morning

• Write down my schedule and know where my classes are.
  

During the First Week

• Introduce myself to at least 1–2 new classmates

• Learn each teacher’s rules and expectations

• Write down assignments right away in my planner

• Organize papers into the correct folder/binder each day

• Review notes for 5–10 minutes after school (keeps things fresh)

Self-Care

• Get 7–9 hours of sleep each night

• Eat breakfast (even something small like fruit or yogurt)

• Stay hydrated (carry a water bottle)

• Take 5–10 minutes to relax (music, journaling, stretching)
  

End of the Week Reflection

• Check: Am I keeping up with homework?

• Check: Do I feel comfortable with my schedule?

• Check: Did I try meeting someone new?

• Set 1 small goal for next week (example: “Ask a question in class” or “Join a club”)

All the best for your return to school!