Year 6 Induction Day
Our Year 6 Induction Day is designed to help students feel confident and prepared for starting in September 2026. You’ll have the chance to explore the school, meet staff and fellow students, and take part in group activities, including tasters of the subjects you’ll study.
We work closely with local primary schools to ensure every student feels confident, prepared, and ready for September.
- Meet new friends and other Year 6 students
- Get to know teachers and school staff
- Explore the school and become familiar with the environment
This year also includes an additional Induction Week, hosted by The Big Step, running from 27th–31st July 2026.
For further details:
The Big Step Introduction Letter
The Big Step Transition Programme Leaflet
Starting secondary school is one of the biggest changes in your child’s education. New classrooms, new teachers, new friendships and higher expectations can feel exciting, but also overwhelming. That’s why we created The Big Step.
Over the past seven years, we’ve supported more than 8,500 children across the South West with their move from Year 6 to Year 7.
Delivered on-site at Gillingham School, our Summer Transition Programme helps children feel confident, settled and ready before September even begins. A structured week designed to help your child:
- Become familiar with the school site
- Meet other students joining Year 7
- Build confidence and independence
- Develop resilience and teamwork
- Learn practical strategies to manage nerves
Alongside this, students take part in exciting activities including:
- Immersive escape rooms
- CSI investigations
- Glow-in-the-dark dodgeball
- Archery, crazy golf and scavenger hunts
- Martial arts, cooking, team building activities and creative workshops
