Transitioning to Junior Secondary School

The transition to Junior Secondary School presents multiple challenges in both academics and school life.

This summer, it is crucial for parents to support their children in preparing both academically and socially for Junior Secondary School. What are the secrets to ensuring a smooth transition?

Let's hear from Ms. Helen Gong, Head of Junior Secondary School at BBSG, as she highlights what sets BBSG Junior Secondary School apart and offers her tips for a smooth transition from Primary to Junior Secondary.

Ms. Helen Gong

Head of Junior Secondary

Ms. Gong graduated from Beijing Language and Culture University and was awarded a half scholarship for a Master’s in Private School Leadership from Teachers’ College, Columbia University in the U.S. She has held middle and senior management positions at many well-known international schools in Australia and China and served as an IBO Examiner, workshop leader for teachers as well as school accreditation visiting team member for a long period of time. She is a joint school visiting team member of CIS (Council of International Schools), WASC (Western Association of Schools and Colleges) and NEASC (New England Association of Schools and Colleges). Her school accreditation experience includes top-ranking international schools both in mainland of China and HKSAR.

In addition, Ms. Gong is also the founder and chief writer of an international education WeChat account. She especially focuses on thinking and research on children's philosophy and youth critical thinking and leadership.

What’s different in Junior High School?

Compared to primary school, junior secondary school offers a broader range of subjects. At BBSG, we not only provide the Chinese National Curriculum but also offer personalised counselling through our QUEST program for all students.

Student clubs are popular, enabling the exploration of specific areas of interest and fostering leadership development. Furthermore, BBSG's junior secondary school sets higher English proficiency expectations to prepare students for international standardized exams. Writing and speaking exercises become regular practices in each English unit.

In junior secondary school, students face increased academic pressure and heightened parental expectations. They will also need to navigate peer pressure and strike a balance between academics and social-emotional development. To support students' holistic development, BBSG has established full-time Counseling, Student Services, and Moral Education departments, with our staff ready to provide comprehensive support.

"Summer Homework"

Among all the preparations, managing expectations comes first. Growing older brings more freedom and choices, but also more responsibilities. Junior secondary students need to develop better time management skills to handle multiple deadlines, which will be essential as they progress to senior secondary school.

Despite the excellent boarding facilities at BBSG, the transition to dormitory life could be challenging for some junior high students. Boarding life is not just about sleeping on campus; it also requires interpersonal skills and the ability to fit into the dormitory community.

Lastly, as you get ready for junior secondary school, consider planning a trip with family or friends this summer as a reward. It's a way to celebrate the start of a new journey. Study hard, play smart. Remember, lifelong learning happens both inside and outside the campus.

Ensuring a Smooth Transition at BBSG

At BBSG Junior Secondary School, we have made significant efforts in our QUEST program this year. We have brought University Counseling down to the Junior Secondary level, allowing students to take their time to discover their true passions and avoid last-minute pressure, ensuring a confident academic journey towards their dream schools.

Additionally, our counsellors and personalized tutors are dedicated to addressing each student's individual needs through various forms of communication, such as meetings with subject teachers or one-on-one discussions between homeroom teachers, principals, students, and parents. Furthermore, our Junior Secondary staff regularly visit our primary school to share new initiatives or practices with parents, helping them prepare for a smooth transition. In the future, we will have more transition plans, including experience days and orientation days.

Want to share your story about transitioning to junior high school? Write your "comments" and share your advice for future junior high schoolers. BBSG is currently accepting applications for the Academic Year 2024-25. Contact us now to book a tour, we look forward to embarking on an exciting educational journey with your family!