School life can be complicated, especially when you're starting at a new school like a secondary or high school for the first time.
You might have extra worries on your mind. From nerves about being late getting lost on the way to class, having more homework, or getting to know new teachers - it can be overwhelming.
But don't worry you are not alone. We've got you here at BBC Bitesize.
We spoke to students from across the UK who recently started secondary school to share what they were worried about most. They explain how they managed to overcome their worries and adjust to a new school life.
Here are their top tips to tackle the following challenges.
How to adjust to changes at a new school
Student 1: Secondary school in three words… Big, fun and different.
Student 2: That I might get lost. And the big change in the school.
Student 3: I was most worried about not finding my classes or not knowing anybody.
Student 4: I didn't know where the private bus would be or where I would find the bus to get there.
Student 5: There's a lot of people in the school too, so I was a bit nervous about the numbers and the crowds.
Student 6: I was frightened about the teachers that they were going to be strict and horrible.
Student 7: Remembering my timetable and where my classes were.
Student 8: Me and my big sister, we did like a run through of how to get to school. So yeah, after that I knew my way.
Student 9: This place is massive. My first two weeks I was late to every class, I didn't know where anything was.
Student 3: It wasn't that hard to find my classes, because all I had to do is ask the people around me for help.
Student 10: Once you get to know your way around, it can be really fun to move lessons because you see friends when you're walking through the corridors.
Student 1: In primary school, we never dressed like we're going to a wedding. Whereas in secondary school, we wear a suit and everything shirt, tie, like, look at you, ready to learn.
Student 7: I just say that always wear your tie. Yeah.
Student 11: I've heard there's going to be a lot of homework. And that is true, there is a lot of homework, but it does help with the actual learning in the lessons.
Student 3: It wasn't that hard to adjust because they teach you it step by step.
Student 5: In Year 7, I found the work a bit harder. I've gotten more used to it and more clever.
How to deal with bullies
Dr Amir Khan:
If you experience bullying, speak up.
Schools take this really seriously and you don't have to handle it alone.
The sooner you speak to someone, the sooner it will get better. If you find it hard to talk about, think about writing it down and giving that to an adult.
Remember, you're not telling on someone, you are standing up for yourself and that's a good thing.
When is Anti-Bullying Week 2025?
This year, Anti-Bullying Week runs from Monday 10 November to Friday 14 November 2025. The theme is "Power for Good," which aims to empower people to use their voices and actions to support others and create a world where kindness wins.
Here are some tips from Dr Amir about what you can do if you are experiencing bullying.
Dr Amir says that there is no place for bullying – at school, home or anywhere.
Dr Amir explains that if you experience or are experiencing bullying – it's really important to speak up.
He says: "The sooner you speak to someone, the sooner it will get better. If you find it hard to talk about, think about writing it down, and giving that [your note] to an adult.
Remember you are not telling on someone. You are standing up for yourself and that's a good thing - Dr Amir
How to make group chats work for you
Dr Amir Khan:
Online group chats can feel like pressure. If they stress you out - mute them.
You don't have to reply instantly.
When it comes to social media and text messaging, if you are on it, set daily or weekly limits on screen time and take regular breaks from your computer or phone.
And whenever you feel the pressure of social media, turn it off and go outside for some fresh air.
Trust me, it works wonders.
You might find yourself being invited to different group chats before or after you join a new school.
These can be exciting and a great way to connect with your mates.
But Dr Amir says, they can sometimes "feel like pressure."
He adds: "If they stress you out, mute them. You don't have to reply instantly. When it comes to social media and text messaging, if you are on it, set daily or weekly limits to screen time and take regular breaks from your computer or phone."
And whenever you feel the pressure of social media, turning it off and going outside for some fresh air will help, according to Dr Amir.
If you need support
You should always tell someone about the things you’re worried about. You can tell a friend, parent, guardian, teacher, or another trusted adult. If you're struggling with your mental health, going to your GP can be a good place to start to find help. Your GP can let you know what support is available to you, suggest different types of treatment and offer regular check-ups to see how you’re doing.
If you’re in need of in-the-moment support you can contact Childline, where you can speak to a counsellor. Their lines are open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
There are more links to helpful organisations on the BBC Bitesize Action Line page for young people.
How to cope with bullying and peer pressure in secondary school
Part of the school journey is learning to deal with challenges like bullying and peer pressure in positive ways. Bitesize is here to support you every step of the way.
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