Surviving High School (:

To all the year 8's that are going to high school next year. DONT freak out about it (like I did), its not as scary as it looks, and to be honest its not that different from intermediate or primary school, just bigger and there are a few more people.

On your first day of high school don't make the mistake most other year 9's will and take all your books to school, because the odds are that you wont have any classes for the first couple of days. All you need to take is a refill pad of a A4 notebook, pencil, pens, rubbers and pencil sharpeners.

When you start high school don't be scared to join sports teams or clubs that interest you, as its one of the fastest way to meet new people. In the first few months try not to do negative things that would draw attention to you because people will get to know you by the mistake you made without even knowing you. High school is not like the programs on TV, everyone is pretty friendly and they are all trying to do the same thing as you.. FIT IN! even if it doesn't seem like it.

Once you start classes, make sure you keep track of all the homework you need to complete and when it is due. The easy way to do this is to record it in you Whanau coloured diary. These diaries are really helpful and are your ticket to get out of class. So DONT lose it. Also make sure you find out from your teachers when your monthly assesments will be so you can be organized and study for them (: AND don't be afraid to ask for help from your teachers.