Transition to high school

A connected learning journey from Kindergarten to Year 12

Our community brings together:

Together, our schools provide a connected and supportive educational pathway from Kindergarten through to Year 12. This continuity is vital in fostering a consistent, high-quality learning experience for every student. By working closely with our local primary schools, Cherrybrook Technology High School (CTHS) helps students feel confident and prepared as they move from primary to secondary education. Through shared programs, joint activities and ongoing communication, students and families can build strong connections with the school community long before Year 7 begins.

Our four schools are committed to educational excellence, student wellbeing and lifelong learning. We are proud to foster a learning community where every student is supported to achieve their full potential from Kindergarten through to Year 12.

A strong and supportive transition

Moving from primary school to high school is an exciting milestone. It can also bring new routines, environments and expectations for students and families.

Our transition program is designed to help students:

• become familiar with the high school environment
• meet teachers, student leaders and future classmates
• understand high school routines and expectations
• build confidence and independence
• feel supported socially, emotionally and academically
• develop a sense of belonging within the wider school community.

Our partnership with local primary schools allows transition to begin well before the first day of Year 7.

Working together across our schools

Cherrybrook Technology High School and our partner primary schools collaborate to create meaningful opportunities for students throughout Years 4, 5 and 6.

These opportunities may include:

• high school students coaching junior sporting teams
• CTHS students volunteering at primary school activities and events
• transition visits and orientation activities
• shared sporting, cultural and academic programs
• leadership and mentoring opportunities
• visits from CTHS staff and students
• opportunities to explore high school subjects, facilities and learning environments
• information sessions and communication for parents and carers.

Learning from older students

Our students play an active role in supporting the Cherrybrook Community of Schools.

CTHS students regularly share their skills, experience and enthusiasm with younger students, through junior sport coaching and volunteering at primary school activities. These connections give primary students the opportunity to meet positive high school role models and become more familiar with the CTHS community.

For our high school students, these experiences also strengthen leadership, communication and community engagement skills.

What to expect at Cherrybrook Technology High School

Cherrybrook Technology High School provides a challenging, supportive and technologically advanced learning environment where students are encouraged to reach their full potential.

Students are supported to grow academically, socially and culturally through a broad range of learning experiences and opportunities, including:

• engaging and future-focused learning
• academic extension and enrichment
• sport and physical activity
• creative and performing arts
• student leadership
• wellbeing and learning support
• extracurricular and community activities.

Our diverse and vibrant learning community celebrates achievement and encourages every student to contribute their strengths, interests and ideas.

Before your child starts Year 7

Enrolment interview

Before your child begins, families may be asked to meet with our principal. This is a time to share:

• medical conditions or allergies
• family circumstances that may affect your child’s start
• any learning or wellbeing needs.

We will also explain the support our school provides, such as:

• support for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students through personalised learning pathways
• extra support for students learning English as an additional language or dialect (EAL/D)
• support for students with disability or other learning needs through inclusive education programs.

Learn more about additional learning support and enrolment requirements at our school.

Our transition program

We work closely with our partner primary schools throughout the year to help students feel confident and prepared for the move to high school. Our transition program provides Year 6 students and their families with opportunities to become familiar with Cherrybrook Technology High School, meet staff and students, and experience school life before Year 7 begins.

Activities may include:

• orientation days and school tours
• parent information sessions and meet the teacher events
• subject tasters and classroom visits
• peer support activities with older students
• transition activities with our partner primary schools
• opportunities to meet student leaders and explore the school.

Students, parents and carers can take part in these activities to learn about daily routines, uniforms, technology, wellbeing support and school communication. If you require an interpreter, please let us know.

Getting ready at home

You can help your child prepare by:

• talking positively about starting high school
• buying uniforms, shoes, stationery and school supplies
• checking if a laptop or device is needed
• practising their travel route to school
• making sure they know your phone number and emergency contacts
• encouraging routines such as packing their school bag
• encouraging them to check their timetable and school bell times the night before day 1 of Term 1.

For more advice, see the Getting ready for high school guide.

Enrolment and local intake area

Cherrybrook Technology High School is a comprehensive NSW public high school with a designated local intake area.

Families should use the NSW Department of Education’s School Finder to identify their designated local high school, as some students attending nearby primary schools may live within the intake area of another high school.

Have questions about starting high school?

Our team is here to help families understand the transition and enrolment process.

Contact us