FAQs for Students
Answers to frequently asked questions from students moving from Year 6 to Year 7 at NHGS.
Here is a list of questions answered in this section. Please click on the question to be taken to the answer:
>>What are the teachers like? Are they strict and scary?
>>How much homework will I get?
>>What happens if I don’t do my homework?
>>How many subjects are there?
>>How will I find my way around?
>>I’m coming on my own from my primary school. Will I make friends?
>>What will I need on my first day?
>>Where do I go on the first day?
What are the teachers like? Are they strict and scary?
The teachers are all really friendly and approachable. They want you to learn as much as possible and therefore are always happy to help you if you get stuck or have a question.
How much homework will I get?
You will be given a homework timetable so you wont get all your homework on the same night. You could have up to 3 pieces if homework an evening, with each piece lasting 20-30 minutes, so a maximum of 90 minutes homework per evening.
At the start of the year, the only subjects that homework is set for is Maths, English and Science, but even after that period, the teachers sort of ease in the harder homework. So at first the homework will be easier and over time it becomes harder, but you get used to that gradual change.
Male Student, Year 7 Student 2022/23
There is absolutely nothing to worry about! We get homework from each subject and they will give us a deadline of around one week. If you're thinking that you might not be able to remember all of the homework you have been given, don't worry! You are given planners, which will organise your homework and any other events that you will need to go to, and it is a great way of remembering your homework and the deadline of that work. The average time that the homework will take is about 30 minutes. Also, the teacher will explain the homework so there are no concerns or worries.
Amelia, Year 7 Student 2022/23
The most I have found myself doing is three pieces a night which take around 30 minutes each. Yes, there will be homework however, if you balance time and manage it well, it seems rather easy and simple! Some may be digital, drawings, essays or a poster. It really does vary.
Jessica, Year 7 Student 2022/23
What happens if I don’t do my homework?
Your teacher will ask if there is a good reason why not. If there is you will get an extension. If there isn’t a good reason you will get a late homework comment sent home and will be asked to bring the homework in the next day. If you don’t bring it in the next day or regularly don’t hand your homework in on time you will get a detention.
Are there detentions? What would you get detention for?
Yes, there are detentions, These are held at lunchtime and/or after school depending on the reason as to why the detention has been issued. Students should ensure they follow the school Behaviour Policy and the Respect Charter at all times.
What is the food like?
Fantastic! Almost all the students and lots of the teachers choose to have school dinners because they are delicious! You get to choose what you eat. There is always a good selection of 3 or 4 hot main meals to choose from, including a vegetarian option, plus everyday there are jacket potatoes and fillings (tuna mayo, cheese, beans), pasta pots and a sandwich bar. Main meals include fish and chips, pizza, wraps, lasagne, curry, kebabs and roast dinners. There is also a hot pudding each day such as chocolate pudding and chocolate sauce, sticky toffee pudding and custard or jam roly poly, as well as cakes and biscuits. The chocolate brownie is fabulous and very popular!
How many subjects are there?
Lots; Maths, Science, English, Art, PE, Technology, Music, History, Geography, French, Spanish, Cultural Studies and RPSE (Religious Personal Social Education)
What clubs are there?
There are all sorts of clubs to get involved in. We have lots of different sports clubs such as football, hockey, rugby, netball, table tennis, gymnastics and athletics. We also have lots of different musical clubs such as choirs, orchestras, bands and guitar ensemble as well as individual or group instrumental lessons. We have several drama opportunities such as First Bow and an annual production. In addition there are lots of other clubs such as Science club, book club, chess club, Art club and debating society. It doesn’t matter if you have any experience or are any good, everyone is welcome to join any of the clubs! At NHGS we think getting involved in extracurricular activities is very important so you should join as many as you have time for!
How will I find my way around?
It is natural to worry about getting lost but there really is no need! To begin with as soon as you arrive you will be met at the front door by sixth form prefects who will guide you to our meeting point. From there you will meet your Student Progress Tutor (SPTs) and your Sixth Form Prefects will remain with you for the day, taking you around from one place to the next. Over the first 2 weeks your Form Prefects will always take you from one lesson to the next so you don’t get lost. For the most part you will have all your lessons with the other students in your form, so you will be moving around the school together. You will also be given a map!
What if I get lost?
It is unlikely you will get lost, but if you do all you need to do is ask any older student or teacher you can see and they will either walk with you to where you need to go or will explain to you how to get there. Alternatively, you can go to Mrs Cockroft at reception who will tell you how to get where you need to go.
I’m coming on my own from my primary school. Will I make friends?
Yes!!! Almost half of the new Year 7 students come from primary schools all on their own! For the others, just because there might be someone else from their primary school coming, it doesn’t mean they are friends or actually like each other anyway! You will find that the other Year 7 students are desperate to make friends and are friendly and approachable.
I was really nervous because I was the only person coming from my primary school. I was worried that everyone else would know people and would already be friends. The VLE* helped a lot because I met people who were in the same boat as me. I met my best friend on there by talking to her as we both liked the same things and didn't know anyone at our new school.
Maisie, Year 7 Student 2022/23
*VLE is the Virtual Learning Environment, a safe and secure online chat room hosted by the school so that incoming Year 7 students can get to know their form and ask Year 8 VLE Buddies questions about NHGS school life.
I have made friends since starting and the best way to do this is to be yourself and start a conversation with someone you don’t know yet.
Male Student, Year 7 Student 2022/23
What is the uniform?
Grey skirt or trousers, grey blazer, white shirt and NHGS tie. See the Uniform section for a more detailed description.
What will I need on my first day?
A bag with a pencil case, reading book and bus pass. See the Equipment List page for a full list of recommended items.
Will we get lockers?
Yes, the opportunity to have a locker will be made available early in September. Please check ParentPay closer to the time for more details.
Where do I go on the first day?
As you come into school, you will be met at the front door by Sixth Form prefects who will escort you into school.