Settling into life at Habs Senior school

The transition from junior to senior school is a milestone every student remembers — filled with excitement, nerves and a whole new world of possibilities. For Year 7 students, the first term in senior school is a time of big changes – new subjects, new friends, larger campuses and the challenge of finding their way in a more grown-up environment.

Ayana (7 Gillett) shares how she found her first term in Year 7 here at Habs:

“Standing at the front of my new school, (10 times the size of my primary school),

I was daunted. It was the induction day. Not a single person from my old school was coming to Habs. I had worries about making new friends, as well as getting round the school on time for lessons. On the first day, as expected, I got lost. However, there was always someone there to help me. After a week, I was using my own shortcuts, with my new friends, and shortly after, all my worries had dissipated. I am now taking the coach to school. This is a completely new experience because I haven’t travelled on a bus alone. I have now gotten used to it and have made some good friends that travel with me. Everyone has been so kind and welcoming, I already feel part of the school community, and it has only been half a term!

I have started so many new subjects and some of my favourites so far have been Chemistry, English and Art. Chemistry is a novel experience, using Bunsen burners and conducting experiments. I love English because I am passionate about creative writing and I am really looking forward to our upcoming topic, ‘A Christmas Carol’! Art provides a sense of calm, and it uses a separate part of my brain. It is a space where I can unwind and express myself with colour. The teachers have eased us in really gently, in both lessons and with homework, so we could build up our confidence in a new environment.

I have started lots of clubs and societies, many of which I have never tried before. I found myself a passion for lacrosse and am looking forward to trying out for the team and developing my skills further. I am also a member of dance club where we are learning a new routine. I have joined debating society, which is joint with the Boys School, and I have thoroughly enjoyed the topics we have discussed so far. I play the flute and have joined the wind band, and I will be participating in the Spotlight Concert later this term.

My most memorable moment so far has been the music concert, where I sang songs from our music lessons with my House, Gillett.

I am so glad that I chose Habs over the other schools where I was offered a place, and I could not have felt happier anywhere else. Overall, this first half term has been challenging, inspiring and fun and I cannot wait to see where my Habs journey leads me.”