By Fungai B Mutizwa

THE Grade Seven results are out and thousands of families across the nation are fi lled with excitement. For our children this is a culmination of nine years of hard work and dedication. For others, it may come with mixed emotions, as they refl ect on their journey and set their sights on the long road ahead.

For parents, it is a time of preparation, ensuring their children are ready to take the next big step into secondary school. It’s a season of new beginnings and at Makumbe Hilltop College, we understand just how signifi cant this transition is — for learners, for families and for our shared vision of shaping the future through education. Secondary school is a unique and transformative phase in a learner’s life. It is the bridge between childhood and young adulthood, a time when students begin to defi ne their identities, ambitions and values. It’s more than just an academic shift; it’s an opportunity for growth, discovery and the cultivation of lifelong skills. For parents, it’s also a time to deepen their involvement, providing not just material preparation but the emotional and moral support that children need to thrive. As learners prepare to transition into Form One, it’s important to acknowledge the mixture of emotions they might be experiencing — excitement, curiosity, maybe even a bit of apprehension.

Moving to secondary school comes with new expectations, challenges and opportunities. It’s natural to feel a little overwhelmed, but it’s also an incredible opportunity to embrace a world of learning that extends beyond the classroom. It is at this stage, that learners begin to uncover their unique strengths, explore their passions and lay the foundation for their future paths. Parents have a vital role to play in making this transition smooth and meaningful. Beyond the practicalities of arranging transport, purchasing uniforms and ensuring all the necessary supplies are in place, it’s equally important to foster a positive mindset. Encouraging your child to see this as an exciting new chapter can make a signifi cant diff erence. Listening to their concerns, celebrating their achievements and reassuring them of your unwavering support creates a sense of security and confi dence. Starting Form One is not only about academic readiness but also about emotional and social preparedness.

For learners, it’s helpful to approach this new stage with an open mind and a willingness to adapt. Secondary school introduces more subjects, each with its own unique challenges and rewards. It’s an opportunity to develop skills like time management, problem-solving and collaboration. Learners will also meet new peers, build friendships and encounter diverse perspectives that will broaden their horizons. These experiences are an essential part of their growth. At Makumbe Hilltop College, we have seen how these transitions, though daunting at fi rst, quickly become opportunities for learners to shine. We have always prioritised creating a supportive environment where every learner feels valued and empowered to reach their potential. Our goal is to nurture not just academic excellence but the kind of holistic development that prepares young people to navigate life’s complexities with confi dence and grace. For those learners who may feel uncertain about their performance in Grade Seven, it’s important to remember that results are just one measure of potential. Secondary school is a new beginning, a chance to explore fresh opportunities and set new goals. Every child has unique gifts and education is as much about discovering and nurturing those gifts as it is about achieving top marks. What matters most is a willingness to learn, grow and embrace challenges with determination. To parents, this is also a moment to refl ect on your role in your child’s educational journey. While schools provide the structure and resources, parents play an equally important part in fostering the right attitude towards learning. Your involvement and encouragement will make all the diff erence. Whether it’s attending school events, helping with homework, or simply being there to listen, your presence has a profound impact on your child’s confi dence and motivation. Makumbe Hilltop College has always seen education as a partnership.

Together with parents, we aim to create an environment that nurtures each learner’s potential while instilling values such as respect, responsibility and integrity. We believe that education should not only prepare students for examinations but also for life, equipping them with the tools they need to succeed in a rapidly changing world. Our commitment is to provide an experience that is both enriching and transformative, helping learners discover who they are and what they can achieve. As families prepare for this next chapter, it’s worth considering how secondary school shapes not just academic trajectories but character and purpose. Encouraging your child to explore extracurricular activities, such as sports, music, drama or debate, can be incredibly rewarding. These activities not only enhance skills like teamwork and discipline but also provide opportunities for self-expression and leadership. At secondary school, learners begin to see themselves as active participants in their communities, a perspective that will serve them well throughout their lives.

Transitions are never just about logistics; they’re also about setting the right tone for what lies ahead. For learners, this means cultivating a mindset of curiosity. For parents, it means being a steady source of encouragement and guidance. Together, this partnership can make the start of secondary school not just a milestone but a springboard for future success. As the new academic year approaches, it is a moment of excitement and possibility. Whether your child is full of enthusiasm or cautiously optimistic, this is a time to remind them that every journey starts with a single step. Secondary school will be fi lled with challenges, but it will also be a time of discovery, growth and incredible potential. At Makumbe Hilltop College, we are honoured to be part of this journey.

We are ready to welcome our new Form Ones with open arms, prepared to guide them through this important phase of their lives. Together, we will work to ensure that they leave no stone unturned in their pursuit of excellence and personal growth. To our learners and parents, as you prepare for this exciting new chapter, remember that this is not just about academic progress but about building a future where every possibility is within reach. Let us approach it with determination, hope and a shared commitment to making the most of every opportunity. The road ahead is bright, and the best is yet to come. Fungai B. Mutizwa is the founder of Makumbe Hilltop College as well as a social entrepreneur and educationist dedicated to transforming rural communities through the introduction of the latest technologies and innovations. For comments and feedback, call cell 0772 315 282, 0712 547 694.