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Transferring to Secondary School

Transitioning to secondary school is a major milestone filled with exciting new opportunities and a few natural jitters. At Medina Primary School, we are dedicated to supporting our Year 6 pupils and families through every step of this journey to ensure a smooth, reassuring, and inspiring move to secondary education across Portsmouth.

Key Portsmouth Application Dates

For families with children currently in Year 6, applying for a secondary school place is managed through the Portsmouth City Council admissions process. Please keep these crucial deadlines in mind:

Date Milestone
31 October 2026 Application Deadline: Submit your secondary school preferences via the Portsmouth City Council online admissions portal.
Monday 1 March 2027 National Offer Day: Secondary school place allocations are released to parents and carers.

https://www.portsmouth.gov.uk/services/schools-and-learning/schools/admissions/apply-to-move-to-secondary-school 

How Medina Prepares Your Child

Moving to secondary school means stepping into a larger environment with greater independence. Our Year 6 team provides structured support throughout the final primary year:

  • Primary-to-Secondary Liaison: Our Year 6 teacher and SENCO work closely with admissions and transition teams from local Portsmouth / Hampshire secondary schools to share academic progress and pastoral needs.

  • Transition & Taster Days: During the summer term, Year 6 pupils participate in dedicated transition days at their allocated secondary schools to explore the grounds, sample lessons, and meet their new classmates.

  • Secondary Readiness Curriculum: In Term 3, we focus on key independence skills—managing personal timetables, homework organisation, and self-advocacy.

Essential Guidance for Families

Area Focus & Advice
School Choices We recommend visiting local Portsmouth secondary school open evenings during September and October before submitting your preference form.
Practical Preparation Help your child practice the route to their new secondary school using public transport or walking paths ahead of their first term.
Routine & Independence Gradually encourage your child to take responsibility for packing their school bag, managing equipment, and setting morning routines.

Pastoral Support & Wellbeing

Adjusting to new routines, multiple subject teachers, and longer days takes time.

  • Targeted Workshops: Small-group sessions run by our pastoral team help address any anxieties about leaving primary school.

  • Year 6 Graduation & Celebration: We celebrate our pupils' time at Medina Primary with end-of-year events, building confidence as they look forward to their next step.

If you have questions about the secondary transition process or need assistance with the Portsmouth application portal, please contact the main school office.