From Grade 8 to Grade 9
Your Child’s Journey to Secondary School Starts Here
Grade 8 is an exciting year for students and families.
As your child prepares for the move to Secondary school, they’ll have opportunities to explore new interests, discover future pathways, and begin imagining what the next chapter of their learning journey could look like.
At the DSBN, we know that moving from Elementary to Secondary school is an important milestone. That’s why our schools work together to ensure students feel welcomed, supported, and ready for the transition.
Discover Secondary School at High School Open House
High School Open Houses give students and families a chance to experience their future school before September arrives.
Whether your child is excited, curious, or unsure about what high school will be like, our High School Open House event helps bring their future school to life.
During High School Open House, you can:
- Walk through the school and explore learning spaces
- Meet teachers, administrators, and support staff
- Learn about programs, courses, and pathways
- Discover clubs, teams, arts opportunities, and student activities
- Ask questions about academics, and student supports
- Start building a connection to your new school community
For many students, High School Open House provides an opportunity to picture themselves in the classrooms, hallways, teams, and programs that will shape their next four years.
We encourage all Grade 8 students and their families to attend.
This Year’s High School Open Houses
Our Secondary schools look forward to welcoming future students and families at Open Houses in November 2026.
Check back this fall for dates, times, and event details.
New to DSBN? Welcome! If your family is new to joining DSBN, Open House is a great place to get to know your new school, meet staff, and learn about the opportunities available to your child.
What Else Happens During Grade 8?
Throughout the year, students will participate in transition activities designed to help them feel prepared and confident for Secondary school.
Depending on the school, these opportunities may include:
- Learning about Secondary school pathways and course options
- Conversations about goals, interests, and future plans
- Visits and transition activities with Secondary schools
- Opportunities to ask questions and learn what to expect in Grade 9
Your child’s school will share information throughout the year about upcoming events and important dates.
Explore What’s Possible
At the DSBN, high school is about more than earning credits.
Students can explore their interests, build new skills, and create a pathway that supports their goals, whether they plan to pursue university, college, apprenticeships, the skilled trades, or enter the workforce.
Visit our Secondary Hub to learn more about:
- Programs and pathways
- Student supports and resources
- Co-op, SHSM, and experiential learning opportunities
A Note for Families
Families play an important role in helping students feel confident about the transition to Secondary school, but you don’t need to have all the answers. Simply staying engaged, asking questions, and exploring opportunities alongside your child can make a meaningful difference.
A few ways to stay involved:
- Attend your future school’s Open House
- Visit Secondary school websites
- Talk with your child about their interests and goals
- Reach out to school staff if you have questions about the transition process
Together, we can help your child feel prepared, connected, and excited for the journey ahead.