We are delighted that you have been offered a place at The Halifax Academy and we look forward to welcoming you to our wonderful school. Throughout the summer term, colleagues from the academy will visit students in their primary school to talk to their current teachers. These conversations help us to make sure we are ready to meet all children’s needs in September. We have lots of other exciting plans to get to know you better throughout the summer term.
This is an opportunity to visit the school, meet key staff, make new friends and get excited about joining us in September. As with all good parties, there will be cake!
Throughout June and July, we will invite families to a Transition Evening. You will receive an invitation, based on which Primary school your child attends. This event is an opportunity to ask questions, share information, complete transition paperwork and take a tour of our fantastic facilities. We also hold additional transition meetings for students who require extra support. These days are designed, but are not exclusive to students who have Special Educational Needs or Disabilities, and students who may require additional support with the transition to secondary school. If you/your child feels an additional transition session is required, please contact Mrs Emma Goodman by email: egoodman@thehalifaxacademy.org or telephone 01422 301080.
Students across Calderdale will spend the day at their chosen Secondary school. Students must arrive in their current Primary school uniform for a prompt start at 8:45am, they will be dismissed at 12:50pm.
At The Halifax Academy we are proud of the links we have with our local community and know the importance of parents, teachers and students talking together and supporting one another. Should you wish to discuss your child’s transition to secondary school or arrange a school visit, please contact Ms Ghizala Saddique, Head of Year 7 by email: Y7@thehalifaxacademy.org or call 01422 301080.
Is there any work for me to do over Summer to prepare me for Year 7?
Check back soon as we will post a link to a Summer task here!
How can I get in touch if I have any concerns regarding transition?
In the first instance, please contact Ms Saddique, Head of Year 7: Y7@thehalifaxacademy.org
What happens if I am the only person from my primary school and I don’t know anyone?
As you can see above, there are lots of ways that we will get to know you before September. In your first week, your tutor will also support you in making new friends, finding your way around and understanding your timetable. We also have prefects (Phase 4 students) who are great role-models and will be happy to show you the way and help you settle in.
What equipment will I need on my first day?
On your first day at The Halifax Academy you will need to bring a school bag that is large enough to carry all of your books, stationery and P.E. kit. At our Family Transition Evening you will see the equipment packs that we ask all families to purchase ready for September. They contain the equipment you will need in lessons and can be paid for via ParentPay (see below).
What do I do if I forget something?
Your Teams page and student planner will help you to be organised each day. Remember to always carry your planner and timetable with you and pack your bag the night before school. Your Year Manager will be on duty as you arrive at school and you will see your tutor each day. You can also contact teachers quickly and easily via Microsoft Teams – we will teach you how to use this in September and you will be an expert in no time! There is a stationery stall each break time should you need to replace equipment.
What uniform do I wear?
More information will be shared about uniform at our transition events. Go to the Uniform page for more information: Uniform
We will be providing all new Year 7 students with an equipment pack, which contains all of the stationery that they will need, including a scientific calculator. We are asking parents to make a contribution towards these packs; payment can be made via ParentPay.
We will be sending out ParentPay activation letters over the summer holidays, so please keep an eye out for these – they will be posted to your home address. You will need to activate your ParentPay account to enable you to pay for school meals, trips and other items.
Click on the buttons below for information and advice on starting secondary school.
