Back to school: Are you excited to start a new term?

Image source, Getty Images

Pens... check, books... check! If you live in England and Wales, you'll be getting ready to head back to school soon.

That's right, the summer holidays might be coming to an end, but there's lots to look forward to when the new term starts this week.

From new subjects, teachers and stationery, to catching up with all of your pals again!

For some of you it might even mean moving from primary to secondary school.

Here at Newsround we've got loads of tips to help you get back into the (school) swing of things again!

And you can let us know what you're excited about in our comments below!

Moving up to high school

Video caption, These guys have got some top back to school tips

Some of you might be going through a big change this year - heading up to secondary school.

While it can seem a bit intimidating at first, there are so many exciting things to look forward to, from new lessons, teachers, clubs and even friends.

Video caption, These secondary school kids have some top advice for younger pupils

Moving up to secondary school, or moving schools, can be a great opportunity to make new friends, but if you don't know anyone there it can also make you feel a bit worried or anxious.

So, we asked child psychologist Dr Hazel Harrison for some of her top friend-finding tips...

Video caption, How to make new friends

Back to school - top tips

Video caption, How to boss going back to school
  • Get organised - Over the holidays think about what you might need to go to school with? Do you need some new pens or notebooks? Have you grown out of your uniform or shoes? Or, is it finally time to repair that hole in your backpack?
  • Planning is key - Take a look at your timetable the evening before, so you know what you'll be doing and where you'll be going. Get your school bag, uniform and PE kit prepped, so you're ready for the morning and you don't need to rush. Trust us you'll feel better for it!
  • Sleep is important - Making sure you get enough sleep means that your body and mind feel rested and full of energy the next day. Over the holidays you might have been staying up a little later than usual, or having more of a lie-in, so try to get back into a regular sleep pattern in the days before you start back at school to make sure you are refreshed and ready!
Quiz time!
  • Food focus - Eating a healthy breakfast, lunch and dinner, and making sure you drink lots of water will help keep your body and mind focused throughout the day.
  • Ask for help - Don't be afraid to ask for help if you can't find your way around, or you're having any difficulties on your first few days. It might feel a little embarrassing at first, but asking a teacher or a new classmate for advice will help you to find out everything you need to know in no time at all.
  • Be yourself - It's hard not to compare yourself to your friends or other classmates, but try to just focus on being your best, and try not to get hung up on what everyone else is doing. You're YOU, and you're brilliant!

Image source, Getty Images