A LOCAL school has launched a new way for young people to get a taste of what secondary school life is like.

Launceston College has been holding ‘Super Saturday’ sessions with local primary school children.

‘Super Saturdays’ have been designed to give current Year 6s a better understanding of what secondary school is like and also to allow them to spend some time in new environments, such as science labs. It is hoped that spending time on site and getting to know some of the staff better will ease the transition for pupils when they start in Year 7.

The first of the events was a special morning of PE, with attendees taking part in a range of indoor and outdoor sporting activities including dodgeball, netball and cricket. This was followed up the next week with a morning focused on science and the final ‘Super Saturday’ on the October 4 will showcase the college’s design and technology offer.

The school also hosts transition days for Year 6 pupils to help them get to know their new tutor groups and peers. At the beginning of the new school year, they have staggered starts that allow new students another opportunity to move around the site before the return of older year groups.

Matthew Thompson, principal at Launceston College said: "Our ‘Super Saturdays’ are all about giving Year 6 pupils a real taste of secondary school life in a welcoming and fun environment.

“From enjoying sporting challenges to exploring science labs and discovering design and technology, these sessions help children feel confident, inspired, and excited about the next stage of their learning journey.

“Meeting staff, trying new activities, and spending time on our campus gives pupils a sense of belonging and makes the transition to Year 7 much smoother and less daunting."