September is return to school month and while for many it means moving up a year, for those starting Secondary School, it can seem like a whole new scary world. Members of the Youth Parliament Advisory Group Ruby and Noah have got your back, as newly Year 7s themselves, they have some great guidance and insight.

Every year, in September, thousands of students across the UK transition into Year 7 and suddenly everything changes!

Some of your friends might go to a different school or have different lessons so you see them less and less. You have to go from lesson to lesson, learn new names and stay in touch with your friends. The change can be stressful but you have to understand that many new opportunities come from the transition.

Although it can be scary, Secondary Schools usually offers a new world of opportunity. You can meet new people, make new friends, join new clubs and explore new lessons and facts.

At our Sunday meeting this month, we shared our experiences of moving into a new school year group, transitioning from Primary to secondary school and college for some. The group got the chance to talk about things they may be nervous about, worried about and what we’re looking forward to. What was obvious was that no one was alone – despite the age difference of members, everyone was there to listen and ready to support as we move into our Autumn term!

Ruby

When you are starting secondary school, there are lots of challenges to overcome. Don’t worry though because if you just be yourself, follow instructions and have fun, you’ll have a wonderful time.

I have only just started myself and whilst I have overcome some of the challenges posed by starting secondary school, I certainly haven’t overcome them all yet! Don’t worry if you don’t know anyone; chances are, there are other people in the same boat as you.

Noah

Not just elected members

Did you know that Somerset Youth Parliament isn’t just it’s elected members? Any young person in Somerset aged 10-25 years can become a member of the Somerset Youth Parliament Advisory Group.

For more information about becoming a member of the Somerset Youth Parliament Advisory Group and to join, visit our Join Us page.

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An illustration of a rocket lifting off, with school elements in its wake, like books, a globe and pencils

About this article

December 18, 2025

Paul Mitchell

Noah

Ruby

Youth Parliament Advisory Group