The Aureus School in Didcot has marked the arrival of its incoming Year 6 cohort with a special evening featuring musical acts, conversations and first-hand accounts from enrolled pupils.

Around 160 young people alongside their family members participated in the school’s annual Post Offers Evening, an occasion designed to support the move to secondary education for pupils commencing their studies the following September.

Headteacher Kirsty Rogers explained that the event enables the institution to establish connections with new families straight away. It offers an opportunity to greet every pupil who has secured a place at the school, while current students relate their own experiences of transitioning. This helps prospective Year 7s feel reassured and adapt to their fresh surroundings. The gathering also allows newcomers to meet one another and gives parents the chance to socialise.

Attendees were welcomed with refreshments, before watching presentations that included speeches from current Year 7 learners and a musical performance by the school choir.

Three students talked about their initial year at the establishment, describing how they initially felt anxious before eventually feeling at ease.

Mrs Rogers observed that the student presentations were impressive. Reuben, Mary and Vardahn openly discussed the apprehensions they experienced during their time in Year 6, and how those concerns faded as they developed friendships and found their footing within the school community.

The occasion was arranged by deputy head responsible for pastoral support Vicki Knight, together with Year 7 leader and transition coordinator Callie Fisher, along with the participating student speakers.

Aureus School forms part of the GLF School multi-academy trust.