How to Settle into a New School When Things Don’t Go as Planned
Going from GCSEs to A-levels can sometimes feel like a big step. Experiencing that transition, especially at a new school can feel exciting, but it can also feel overwhelming. You might have imagined walking through the doors and instantly making friends, and settling in. For some, that happens quickly. For others, it could take time, and that’s completely normal. If you’re finding it difficult to settle into a new school, you’re not alone. With patience and by taking small, proactive steps, you can start to feel more comfortable and confident in your new environment.
Get Involved in Clubs and Activities
One of the easiest ways to meet new people is to join a club or society. At Ashbourne, there’s something for everyone: Model United Nations, Creative Writing, Medical School Programme, Football, Badminton, and more. Clubs bring together students with shared interests, which makes it easier to strike up conversations and form friendships. Even if you feel nervous at first, remember that everyone there has chosen to take part because they enjoy the same activity as you. That common ground gives you a natural way to connect. These clubs are not only about hobbies or career preparation, they’re about community. Whether you want to debate global issues, improve your fitness, or share your passion for writing, you’ll find that engaging in something you enjoy helps make college life more meaningful and social.
Ashbourne also organises regular trips and activities that are perfect for bonding with classmates outside the classroom. Whether it’s a bowling night, a theatre visit, or a trip to Europe, these experiences are a chance to relax, laugh, and create memories together. Sometimes, friendships form more naturally in these informal settings than they do in lessons. Saying yes to opportunities like these allows you to step outside your comfort zone and discover new sides of yourself. You might be surprised by how much fun you have and how quickly these shared experiences help you feel part of the community.
Notably, at Ashbourne around 90% of our year 12 students have not studied here previously, hence a big majority of students are trying to settle in, so you have the chance to have a genuine fresh start.
Speak to Teachers and Other Members of Staff
When it feels difficult to connect with students right away, try turning to your teachers, or other staff members. At Ashbourne, students and teachers, and other staff members including the principal address each other on a first-name basis. This helps break down barriers and encourages open communication. Teachers here are approachable and genuinely invested in their students’ wellbeing. This dynamic is further enhanced with the small class sizes where students feel comfortable and confident about speaking, asking and answering questions. Don’t hesitate to arrange a meeting with your personal tutor, the Director of Studies, or even the Principal. They can offer guidance, share practical tips, and reassure you that what you’re experiencing is completely normal. Building a relationship with your teachers can also make you feel more supported and confident in your academic journey.
Alongside staff members, you also have the opportunity to reach out to the student council members at Ashbourne. They are always ready to help and provide some advice about life at sixth form whether it is about academics or the social life.
Take Advantage of Peer Mentoring
Settling in becomes much easier when you know someone who’s been in your shoes. That’s why Ashbourne offers mentoring opportunities where Year 12 students can be paired with Year 13 mentors. A mentor is able to provide subject specific advice, helping students in a subject area which they are finding difficult. However, alongside helping academically, by mentoring a student or being a mentee, you can form friendships and connections which can help you in other ways outside of academics.
Attend Subject Clinics
If you’re feeling anxious about your studies, subject clinics can help you feel more in control. At Ashbourne, lunchtime clinics give you the chance to ask questions, get extra support, and connect with others studying the same subjects. Teachers are always available to help, but what makes these sessions even more valuable is the sense of community they create.
Sharing a challenge, whether it’s a tricky chemistry problem or a difficult physics concept, can lead to conversations and even friendships. Subject clinics are about more than just academics; they remind you that you’re not facing challenges alone.
Be Patient and Take Small Steps
The truth is, settling in doesn’t always happen overnight. It’s okay if things feel slower than you expected. The important thing is not to give up. Focus on small steps, attending one club meeting, having one new conversation, or trying out one clinic. Over time, these small efforts build up and make a big difference.
It can help to focus on your academics in the early weeks while giving yourself time to adjust socially. As your confidence grows in lessons, you’ll find it easier to branch out into other areas of college life. Remember, everyone has their own timeline, and yours doesn’t have to look the same as anyone else’s.
Reaching Out for Support
If you’re still finding it hard to settle, the most important thing is to talk about it. There’s always someone who can listen and help, whether it’s a friend, a mentor, a teacher, or a member of staff. At Ashbourne, we’re committed to supporting every student through their journey, and we want you to feel at home here. Our safeguarding team spends a significant amount of time on pastoral care, and sometimes they even meet students before they start their journey at Ashbourne, and they are always here to help.
So if things don’t feel like they’re falling into place just yet, don’t panic. Take one step at a time, make use of the opportunities around you, and keep going. Additionally, if you feel like things are not falling into place at your current school, you can always let us know and maybe we can help.
1. How can I settle into a new sixth form after GCSEs?
Settling into a new sixth form can take time, but joining clubs, attending events, and reaching out to teachers can make the transition smoother. At Ashbourne, most Year 12 students are new, so you’ll be starting fresh alongside many others.
2. What clubs and activities help students make friends at sixth form?
Clubs and societies such as Model United Nations, Creative Writing, Football, or Badminton provide natural opportunities to meet people with shared interests. These activities not only support social life but they can also enrich your sixth form experience.
3. How does Ashbourne College support students who are struggling to settle in?
Ashbourne offers small class sizes, approachable teachers, personal tutors, and a dedicated safeguarding team to ensure every student feels supported. Staff and student council members are also available for advice and encouragement.
4. Why is peer mentoring useful when starting sixth form?
Peer mentoring allows Year 12 students to connect with Year 13 mentors who can provide academic support. This one-to-one connection can help new students feel more confident and included.