PREPARATION GUIDE FOR NEW SHS 1 STUDENTS REPORTING ON 18TH OCTOBER 2025

 

PREPARATION GUIDE FOR NEW SHS 1 STUDENTS REPORTING ON 18TH OCTOBER 2025

By : Honeybrowne Okaakyire, B.Ed. 

The moment thousands of young Ghanaians have been waiting for is finally here! On 18th October 2025, fresh SHS 1 students across the country will begin a brand-new chapter in their educational journey. For many, this will be the first time leaving home, meeting new friends, and experiencing boarding life.

It’s a season filled with excitement, curiosity, and a bit of nervousness and that’s completely normal. As a teacher, I’ve seen how the right preparation can make the difference between a stressful start and a smooth transition. Here’s how to get ready for this important milestone.

1. Prepare Your Mind and Heart : Starting SHS is a big step. You’re moving into a more independent stage of life where you’ll make many of your own choices. Prepare your mind and heart for this change.

Stay calm and open to learning new things.

Be ready to make friends from different backgrounds.

Remember, this is your opportunity to grow : academically, morally, and socially.

Have a positive attitude, and don’t be afraid to ask questions or seek help when you need it.

2. Get Your Academic Tools Read : SHS studies are more demanding than JHS, so begin with the right mindset. Revise key topics from your BECE subjects, especially English, Mathematics, and Science, which are the foundation of every course.

-Make sure you have all your academic supplies:

-Exercise books and pens

-Mathematical set and scientific calculator

-Ruler, pencils, and erasers

-School bag and notebooks for each subject

-Starting prepared helps you adjust quickly when lessons begin.

3. Pack Smartly : If you are going to a boarding school, check your school’s prospectus carefully and pack ahead of time.

-Essential items include:

-Bedding: bedsheet, pillow, blanket, and mosquito net.

-Personal care: soap, sponge, toothbrush, toothpaste, towel, and bucket.

-Clothing: uniforms, undergarments, casual wear, and sandals.

-Provisions: gari, milk, sugar, groundnut, and other small food items.

-Health kit: basic first aid, sanitary items, and prescribed medication.

-Label every item with your name or initials : things easily get mixed up in dormitories

4. Prepare Financially : Parents and guardians should budget early for school supplies, transportation, and small upkeep money.

-Students, learn to use money wisely:

-Avoid spending on unnecessary things.

-Keep money in a safe place.

-Ask for guidance before making big purchases.

-Financial discipline will keep you out of trouble and teach you independence.

5. Build Good Habits Earl : Senior High School is where character is tested and built. Decide now to:

-Be punctual and disciplined.

-Respect your teachers, seniors, and fellow students.

-Follow school rules faithfully.

-Stay focused on your purpose for being there; to learn and succeed.

-Your habits today will shape your success tomorrow.

6. Stay Spiritually and Morally Grounded : Never forget your values and faith. Pray, read your Bible or Quran regularly, and live a life that brings honour to your family and community.

-Peer pressure will come, but always choose what is right over what is popular.

7. Take Care of Your Health : A healthy student learns better.

-Eat nutritious food and drink clean water.

-Sleep well to stay refreshed.

-Report sickness early to the school nurse.

-Keep your environment clean to prevent diseases.

-Good hygiene is a sign of self-respect.

-Parents’ Corner: Helping Your SHS 1 Child Adjust

-Dear parents and guardians, your support is key to your child’s success.

-Encourage them emotionally; remind them that homesickness is normal and temporary.

-Communicate often - a simple phone call or message can make a big difference.

-Guide them financially - teach them how to manage money responsibly.

-Pray with and for them - your words of faith and blessing give strength and confidence.

-When parents and students work together, the SHS journey becomes not just successful, but beautiful.

My Final Encouragement : Dear new SHS 1 student, this is the beginning of a great journey. You’ve worked hard to get here, and now it’s your time to shine. Be confident, disciplined, and determined to make your family proud.

When you walk through your new school gate on 18th October 2025, remember - you are not just starting school; you are stepping into your future. Go with courage, stay humble, and never stop learning.