Year 6 to 7 Transition

Lower School (Year 7) is very much a ‘school within a school’. We understand that moving to Senior School can feel like a big step, so we work hard to ensure that our Lower School has a warm, welcoming atmosphere where every pupil is known and supported from day one.

The Lower School has its own unique character and environment. Pupils see their form tutor every day, allowing strong relationships to form quickly. Tutors are always available to answer questions and provide guidance. Many academic lessons are taken with their form group, helping pupils to build friendships and settle in quickly.

At Merchant Taylors’ Senior School, we pride ourselves on creating a friendly and inclusive environment where all pupils can thrive. The positive relationships between staff and pupils are central to this, and we’re confident that both pupils and parents will find the School a supportive and inspiring place. Many pupils go on to form friendships that last a lifetime.

Before the start of term, we host a full Induction Day for all new Year 7 pupils. This gives them the opportunity to explore the school, meet some of their teachers, and begin forming new friendships.

To support the settling-in process further, a group of Sixth Form pupils are appointed as Peer Supporters. They lead activities during PSHE sessions and are on hand to offer advice and encouragement as pupils get to know the school.

Pupils join the Lower School in Year 7 and progress to ‘Middle School’ (Years 8 & 9), by which time they will have begun their GCSE journey. Each pupil is placed into one of four Houses and is supported by a Head of House. There is a strong sense of community and friendly competition through a wide range of inter-house events, including football, cricket, quizzes, debating, chess, and Sports Day.

We encourage all our pupils to make the most of the many opportunities available in Seniors, to grow in confidence, explore co-curricular interests, and develop a love of learning that extends beyond the classroom.

Our advice is simple: work hard, be open to new experiences, take opportunities, treat others with kindness and respect, and if you ever need help, just ask.

Pastoral care is at the heart of everything we do in Senior School. We want all our pupils to feel happy, safe, and supported during their time with us, because we know that happy pupils are more likely to thrive, both in and out of the classroom. Effective pastoral care is built on strong, trusting relationships between staff, pupils, and parents, and on truly knowing each child as an individual.

Our pastoral team is here to support pupils throughout their school journey, helping them to grow into confident, responsible, resilient, and compassionate young people.

While all teaching staff play a role in supporting the wellbeing of pupils, there are key members of staff with particular responsibility for pastoral care.

The Form Tutor is the first and most important point of contact for pupils and their families. Pupils see their Form Tutor twice a day for registration and three times a week for Form Periods or PSHE. This regular contact helps build strong relationships, and Form Tutors are well placed to offer guidance on everything from academic organisation and friendships to subject choices and future aspirations.

In Year 7, pupils are supported by specialist Form Tutors who are experienced in helping new pupils settle in and make a positive start to life in Merchant Taylors’ Senior School.

Form Tutors are also the main link between school and home. They are always happy to discuss any concerns and equally enjoy celebrating pupils’ successes and achievements.

The school is structured into four sections:

– Lower School (Years 7)
– Middle School (Years 8 & 9)
– Upper School (Years 10 & 11)
– Sixth Form (Years 12–13)

Each section is overseen by a Head of Division and Assistant Head of Division. These are experienced pastoral leaders with specialist training in safeguarding and pupil wellbeing. Heads/Assistant Heads of Division support and guide the work of Form Tutors, ensuring that every pupil receives the care and attention they need to flourish.

Pupils in Year 7 follow a broad and balanced curriculum designed to spark curiosity, build strong foundations, and encourage a love of learning across a wide range of subjects. As part of their weekly timetable, pupils study:

– English
– Mathematics
– Science
– History
– Geography
– French
– Spanish
– Latin & Classical Civilisation
– Religion, Philosophy & Ethics
– Design Technology
– Music
– Art
– Drama
– Computer Science
– Physical Education

The academic timetable is complemented by lessons in PSHE (Personal, Social, Health and Economic Education), a weekly Games session, and Learning to Learn

Homework and Assessment

In Year 7, pupils typically receive three homework tasks each evening, with each task expected to take around 20 minutes. All homework is set as Microsoft Teams Assignments, and parents can monitor deadlines and progress via an app.

Assessment is ongoing throughout the year to help pupils understand their progress and identify areas for improvement. In addition to regular class assessments, a more formal set of summer assessments takes place in May/June, helping pupils consolidate their learning from across the year. Not all subjects set a summer exam, this year, pupils completed assessments in six subjects.

Progress is reported through half-termly grade cards and reports, which include both academic performance and an evaluation of pupils’ attitudes to learning.

Learning support is a vital part of our educational approach at Merchant Taylors’. We aim to provide a caring and supportive environment for our pupils who may have additional needs and believe each pupil has the ability to succeed and achieve in all aspects of life.

It is our job to support pupils on their journey, by recognising their strengths and building independence and confidence, whilst promoting well-being.

During the school day, we ensure all teachers understand and provide support for pupils in the classroom and by providing Learning Support Lessons to help with any aspect of learning. Most importantly, staff are always available if you have any concerns or worries regarding learning.

We offer a range of support and interventions tailored to individual needs, including:

– Reasonable adjustments and in-class support to help pupils access the curriculum effectively

– Small group sessions focused on study skills, reinforcement of core subjects, and targeted practice

– Weekly or fortnightly one-to-one lessons for pupils who benefit from personalised support in areas such as organisation, writing development, revision techniques, exam strategies, and study skills

Most pupils follow the full curriculum. However, in certain cases, some may receive timetabled learning support that allows them to concentrate on core subjects while still enjoying a rich and challenging educational experience.

If a formal assessment is needed to better understand a pupil’s learning profile, our Learning Support team, can carry out an appropriate evaluation or arrange for an Educational Psychologist to conduct an assessment in school.* We also also provide assessments to gather the necessary evidence for applying for access arrangements in external examinations.*

If you have any questions or would like to discuss learning support further, please contact us at: [email protected]

*Please note: formal assessments may incur an additional charge.

Counselling provides pupils with a confidential space to discuss and explore various concerns, including worries, fears, self-confidence, relationships, and self-identity. Pupils can be referred by teachers, parents or self-refer without parental consent.

Accessing counselling is straightforward; simply email our School Counsellor, complete a couple of forms, and start weekly sessions during school hours. Our staff at Merchant Taylors’ are committed to supporting pupils holistically addressing academic, social, emotional, and mental wellbeing, and we value feedback on how best to achieve this.

At Merchant Taylors’, we believe that every pupil should have access to an education that is not only academically rigorous but also deeply enriching. By nurturing intellectual curiosity and encouraging exploration beyond the classroom, we aim to develop independent, lifelong learners who are equipped with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to lead happy, healthy, and successful lives.

A key part of this enrichment comes from the wide variety of activities and events that take place outside of lessons, during lunchtimes, after school, and at weekends.

Sport plays a central role in school life. With expert coaching and excellent facilities, pupils of all abilities are encouraged to participate, compete, and develop their talents in both team and individual sports. Our programme includes:

-Traditional team sports such as rugby, football, hockey, netball and cricket

– Individual and endurance sports like swimming, rowing, cross country, and orienteering

– A full calendar of fixtures and inter-house competitions, including regular Saturday matches

We support pupils at all levels, from those trying a sport for the first time to those competing at county or national level. Our philosophy is simple: sport should be inclusive, enjoyable, and character-building.

The Music Department is a vibrant and creative hub, housed in a purpose-built Music School. Facilities include:

– A large rehearsal and performance space with digital recording equipment

– A second teaching room with electric keyboards and music software

– Six practice rooms for instrumental tuition

Many pupils take individual music lessons in school, supported by a team of visiting music teachers covering a wide range of instruments and voice. Pupils can also join ensembles such as:

– Concert Band

– Swing Band

– Strings Plus

Regular concerts take place throughout the year, both in school and in the wider community, giving pupils the chance to perform and grow in confidence.

Drama is a thriving part of school life, with many opportunities for pupils to get involved in productions both on stage and behind the scenes. We have a strong tradition of excellence in theatre, with recent joint-school productions including Oliver, Matilda, Hairspray, School of Rock and Fame.

Productions often involve large casts and play to packed audiences in the Williams Hall. Pupils gain valuable experience in performance, teamwork, and creative expression – and many go on to pursue drama beyond school.

Our co-curricular programme is rich and varied, with something for everyone. Pupils can join clubs such as:

– Badminton Club

– Board Games Club

– Debating Society

– Jigsaw Club

– School Council

We actively encourage pupils to start their own clubs, especially in the Sixth Form, where many take on leadership roles and develop organisational skills by running societies themselves.

From Year 9 onwards, pupils can take part in the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, which is hugely popular and well-supported. Each year, around 60 pupils begin the Bronze Award, with many progressing to Silver and Gold levels.

The Award encourages pupils to:

– Contribute to their community

– Develop new skills and interests

– Take part in physical activity

– Complete adventurous expeditions

Training for the Bronze Award begins in Year 9 through the Tendo programme, with expeditions taking place between April and October.

Merchant Taylors’ is proud to host the largest voluntary cadet contingent in the North West, with over 270 pupils from both the Boys’ and Girls’ Schools participating.

From Year 9, pupils can join one of three sections – Army, Navy, or RAF – and take part in weekly training sessions every Thursday after school. The CCF helps pupils develop:

– Leadership and teamwork

– Resilience and problem-solving

– Confidence and self-discipline

Cadets also have the opportunity to attend camps and courses across the UK and abroad, taking part in activities such as mountaineering, sailing, flying, and more. The CCF is largely pupil-led, with senior cadets taking on key leadership roles – a testament to the strength and spirit of the programme.

The School welcomes the co-operation of parents in seeing that the pupils pay proper attention to their appearance and that they look after their uniform and wear it correctly. Hair-styles should be neat, simple and suitable for school. Long hair must be tied back. School uniform must be worn by pupils on their way to and from school and when they are engaged in activities connected with the School, unless permission to the contrary has been given.

Parents are reminded of the importance of naming all items of clothing and sports kit.

Girls Uniform

Autumn/Spring

– School blazer* this may be worn inside school in winter.

– Plain navy skirt or plain navy trousers. Skirt should be no more than 8cm above the knee when kneeling and always worn appropriately. Trousers should be straight leg in style.

– Long-sleeved open-necked blouse* in School material. Must be worn tucked into waistband of skirt/trousers.

– School V-necked, long-sleeved jumper* with light blue stripes at neck and cuffs.

– Y10 – 11 may wear a plain navy V-necked jumper.

– Plain dark navy knee-length socks or tights.

– Plain black shoes, flat heels only without motif or contrasting material. Open sided/sling back shoes or trainer style are not allowed.

– Coat (optional) Navy or Black outer coat, plain in colour with no trimmings (Coat or Blazer must be worn to and from School.) Coats are strongly recommended for those pupils not travelling by car.

Spring/Summer

– School blazer*(must be worn to and from School).

– Short-sleeved, open-necked blouse* in School material. May be worn with winter skirt/trousers. Must be worn tucked into waistband of skirt/ trousers.

– School V-necked, long-sleeved jumper* or School cardigan* with light blue stripes at neck and cuffs.

– Y10 – 11 may wear a plain navy V-necked jumper.

– Plain dark navy knee-length socks or tights.

– Plain black shoes, flat heels only without motif or contrasting material. Open sided/sling back shoes or trainer style are not allowed.

PE Uniform

All articles of clothing MUST have name tapes on the OUTSIDE, NOT inside. Socks, racquets, training shoes and swimming caps should show the full name in special indelible ink.

– Navy crested Polo Shirt*.

– Navy Games Skort*.

– Navy blue Tracksuit Trousers* or Navy blue athletics leggings*.

– Games Socks*.

– White Ankle Socks.

– Navy Blue half-zip Sweater*.

– Swimming Costume (Spring Term)*.

– Swimming Cap – latex (Spring Term)*.

– Navy Blue Sports Holdall.

– Gum shield/shin pads for Hockey (Autumn Term).

Please note – pupils are expected to wear Sports Trainers (these are sturdy trainers suitable for a wide variety of indoor and outdoor activities). It is advisable to wear Astro boots for Hockey.

Any Team kits will be ordered by the PE staff.

Accessories

– Navy/Black gloves.

– School scarf*.

– Plain navy or blue elastic ties or ribbons.

– Plain navy or black slides of simple design.

– No jewellery is allowed except simple earrings, Not jewels – maximum of one in each ear. A plain gold or silver chain with a religious symbol may be worn under blouse.

– Bags should be black / navy and large enough to accommodate all necessary exercise / text books.

The School welcomes the co-operation of parents in seeing that the pupils pay proper attention to their appearance and that they look after their uniform and wear it correctly. Hair-styles should be neat, simple and suitable for school. Long hair must be tied back. School uniform must be worn by pupils on their way to and from school and when they are engaged in activities connected with the School, unless permission to the contrary has been given.

Parents are reminded of the importance of naming all items of clothing and sports kit.

– School blazer* to be worn at all times unless you are invited to remove it or Shirtsleeve Order is declared.

– White shirt with the top button fastened. Your shirt must be tucked into your trousers.

– Plain black jumper (optional) with a V-neck (no logos). Pupils may wear V necked pullovers with emblems for representative honours in sport if they wish.

– Plain black, straight leg, trousers.

– School/House tie*. As Houses have changed, pupils may wear any colour of the House tie. House badges will be issued to each pupil.

– Plain black or grey or grey socks.

– Formal black polished shoes. Training shoes are not permitted.

– Plain, dark coloured coat (optional). Note that coats and scarves must not be worn indoors.

General Information

– No boots.

– No visible jewellery.

– No visible tattoos or piercings.

– If you wear a belt, it should have a modest buckle.

– Ties must be tied so that your top button is not visible and so that they hang at an appropriate length.

– Hats of any sort are not permitted.

– Hair must be of your natural colour and off the collar, but no shorter than a “number 2”

– Your face must be clean shaven.

PE Uniform

– Reversible rugby top*

– Crested Boys PE T-Shirt*

– Black PE shorts

– Black crested tracksuit*

– Hooped PE socks*

Please note – pupils are expected to wear Sports Trainers (these are sturdy trainers suitable for a wide variety of indoor and outdoor activities). It is advisable to wear Astro boots for Hockey.

Any Team kits will be ordered by the PE staff.

– Accessories

– Navy/Black gloves.

– School scarf*.

– Bags should be black / navy and large enough to accommodate all necessary exercise / text books.

Term Dates

School Buses & Timetables

Policies

Governance

Terms & Conditions

Future Immunisation Information

Over the years we have been asked many questions when talking to Year 6 pupils who are looking forward to joining us at Merchant Taylors’ Senir School. You may have already asked some of the questions below or they may not have crossed your mind yet but, hopefully, this information will help!

If there is anything else that you would like to know, please do not hesitate to ask when you see us next or you could always email our Head of Admissions, Mrs Roberts via [email protected].

1. How should I get into school in the mornings and where should I go?

When you arrive in School whether you have caught the school bus, travelled in by car or walked from home, you will enter School by the main gate and head to your form room ready for registration. You will be shown where your form room is during your Induction Day in September.

2. What time do I start and end the day?

All pupils should be in school by 8.30am at the latest and registration is at 8.40am, although you can arrive any time after 8.00am. We finish lessons at 4.00pm and at this time you return to your form room to collect your belongings and then you are free to go home unless you have any after school clubs to go to!

3. What if the bus is late or I get stuck in traffic?

If you arrive after 8.40am, then you must go straight to the Reception Desk in the Lodge and explain what has happened and you will be registered there.

4. When are lunch and break times?

Morning break is from 11.15am-11.35am, so there is plenty of time to have a drink, snack, have a chat with friends, visit the bathroom and get yourself ready for the next lesson. Lunchtime runs from 12.40pm until 1.45pm and each year is given a particular time slot to go to lunch.

5. Do I need to bring money in to school for lunch and breaks? Can I bring my own food to school?

You do not need to bring money for lunch as your parents have already paid for this. At break time, snacks are available to purchase from the Dining Room or you can bring your own snack from home. All food must be eaten in the Dining Room or outside. You may not take food or drink into the classrooms. Our catering team are excellent and there is always a wide variety of hot and cold food to choose from. Your parents will have confirmed any dietary requirements to us and we will cater for them. If you wish to purchase food during break, please be aware that you will need a card for payment; you will not be able to use cash or your phone for payment.

6. What can I do at lunch time?

Either before or after you have eaten lunch, there are all manner of different subject clinics, clubs and general training sessions for you to attend as part of our extensive extracurricular programme. Joining these clubs is a great way to make friends but if you want some free time, then that is fine too – we do want you to relax and make friends. However, we do encourage you to sign-up for at least two lunchtime activities a week.

7. Do I choose which form I am in and who will be in my class?

We will put you in forms so you do not have to worry and you will meet pupils in your form and teaching groups during your Induction Day at the start of term. You will very quickly get to know the pupils in your form, your teaching group, your year group and in your House and soon you will know a lot of people very well.

8. Will I always be with the pupils in my form and how many pupils are there in each form?

You will be with the pupils in your form during registration and a number of academic lessons, but you will also be with a different group of pupils for some lessons. This means that you will very quickly get to know lots of pupils and make friends with quite a range of different people. There will be about 20 pupils in each form, and in each teaching group.

9. Are there lots of new subjects?

Yes, there are lots of new subjects and new teachers for you to meet. Some subjects you will be familiar with but there are also some exciting new ones. This is all part of the adventure.

10. How many languages will I learn? Can I choose which ones I study?

In Year 7 you will study both French and Spanish.

11. Do I have my own timetable?

Yes, you will be given a timetable during your Induction Day and on your first day in September you will be spend time looking through this. You will also be given a homework timetable. For the first week Year 7 do not receive homework; we understand that there is a lot to take in when you start a new school.

12. Why do I have to walk to different classrooms?

Each subject has a specific teaching area in the school because it is where their specialist equipment and books dedicated to that subject are kept. You will find Science Laboratories, Art, Design Technology Suites, MFL rooms and Music, ICT and PE specialist areas – this means that you must move around the school to experience each of these state of the art facilities.

13. How will I know where to go?

Although Merchant Taylors’ Senior School is probably a lot bigger than your Primary School, it is not as huge as many other secondary schools and you will soon find your way around. You will have received our Year 7 Induction Booklet and in that there is a map of the school and you will be able to practice using this map to find your way around the school. Merchant Taylors’ Senior School is a very friendly school and everyone here will be looking out for you – feel free to ask any member of staff or pupil for help if you need it.

14. Can I sit where I want in lessons?

For the first few weeks your teachers will sit you in alphabetical order until they get to know you. After that the teachers will put together a seating plan, so you may sit with different people and this may change lots throughout the year.

15. Am I allowed to visit the toilets when I want?

Pupils are encouraged to have toilet breaks during the break or lunchtime to avoid missing lessons. However, the teachers understand that sometimes nature calls and you may need an extra visit during a lesson, just politely ask the teacher if you can be ‘excused’.

16. Do I carry all my books around with me during the day? How do I remember which books to take to different lessons?

You will soon get used to your timetable and new routine. Our teachers know that it takes time to get used to so many things at once, but you will soon get there! We will help you to use your locker to store your books during the day so that you only carry your books for your next lesson and then swap these over at break and lunchtime.

17. Do we have lockers? What do I use it for and do I need a lock?

Yes, you have your own locker that that is your space to keep your exercise and text books in during the day. You can also use your locker for storing other personal items so that you do not have to carry a heavy bag around with you during the day. Your lockers do have a key that you will be given at the start of the term and you must look after this key as you have to pay to replace it if you lose it! The school will have a spare key in case you do lose or forget it but keep it safe on your own keyring and hopefully this will avoid losing it!

18. Will I get a lot of homework? Can I do homework at lunchtime?

When you join us in Year 7, you will be given a homework timetable which will tell you what homework you can expect. Most nights this will be homework in just two or three subjects and you should allow for an hour of homework each night. We encourage homework to be done at home so that you can enjoy your lunchtimes and be involved in some of the enrichment activities we offer.

19. Are there non-uniform and dress-up days?

We do run, about once a term, a ‘mufti day’ when you are given the chance to come to school in your own clothes. These are often associated with a fund raising initiative for the many different charities that we support so you may be asked wear something associated with a particular charity and for a small donation for that charity.

20. Will I get House Points or Merits in Year 7?

If you do a great piece of work or a teacher thinks you have been really kind or helpful, they will give you a merit. These are recorded for you and also recorded as points for your House and if you get a certain number of merits, your name will be called out in assembly and you will get a certificate. All of the House points achieved by individual pupils in this way are added to those points won by the House in various competitions and the House Trophy is then awarded at the end of each term and finally at the end of the school year to the top House.

21. What happens if I do something wrong?

We will do our very best to try to help you not to do things wrong but these things do happen. If you have done something wrong, we will try to talk to you to find out why this has happened and then advise you on how to avoid getting into trouble again. We are understanding and aware that everyone makes mistakes, but if you do something serious you will be given a detention. We all make mistakes from time to time but it is how you deal with those mistakes and what you learn from them that is the most important and we are here to help you to overcome them and learn from them.

22. Can I bring a mobile phone to school?

You may bring your mobile phone into school but it must be switched off and kept secure in your locker until the end of the day for you to collect and take home. Phones may not be used during the school day, and phones will be confiscated, with detentions for repeat offenders.

23. How do I make friends?

Try to smile lots and be interested in other people. Just be yourself and take your time to get to know others. Try as many lunchtime and after school activities as possible and get involved in as much as you can. You will make friends very quickly by doing that and remember you are coming to a very friendly school.