As part of our Transition project between the Secondary English faculty and Year 6 Primary classes, our Year 7 students recently took part in a heartwarming letter-writing activity designed to support and welcome Year 6 students as they prepare to move up to Secondary, either here at Patana or elsewhere.

For 3 weeks in May, during their English lessons, Tutorial time and Well-being sessions, Year 7s reflected on their own feelings from a year ago—how it felt to leave Primary, face new routines, and begin life in the Senior School. They explored the concept of empathy, practised giving meaningful advice, and honed their communication skills by responding to real questions posted by Year 6 classes on a Padlet.

From worries about getting lost, to curiosity about lockers, lunch and making new friends, our Year 7s answered every question with care and insight—although we must admit, the most popular topic was definitely ice cream! Clearly, the Year 6s have their priorities straight.

The project culminated in each Year 7 writing a personalised, supportive letter to a student in their assigned Year 6 class. 7A was paired with Ms Sarah’s class, and the moment of delivery was full of smiles, conversation, and connection.

Here’s what some of the Year 6s had to say about the Transition letter writing project:

“It was so nice to see friends again as we don’t normally see them in school.” – Maya and Kryssa, 6F

“It was really good because the Year 7 kids explained more about Secondary School. They talked about emotions around class mix and how we will soon get used to things. They reassured me and made me feel happy and relieved that Secondary isn’t scary.” – Adrina, 6S

“We felt like the Y7s were confident, kind, and did a great job of making us feel better about Year 7.” – Panther and Aiden, 6S

It was a joy to watch our Year 7 students step into the role of mentors. In doing so, they not only developed their writing, empathy, and interpersonal skills—they also helped make the transition journey for the Year 6 students a little less daunting (and hopefully filled with plenty of ice cream).