Works are ongoing to develop a “well rounded” new course for Year 9 pupils, the Ministry of Education said, with middle and senior schoolteachers collaborating.

Crystal Caesar, the Minister of Education, said the modules will offer interactive lessons, practical strategies and consistent support to help students confidently navigate the challenges and opportunities of senior school.

She said as previously announced, Middle 2 level students will not physically move to the senior school site in 2025.

However, she said: “They will remain at their respective middle school sites and complete a Year 9 Senior programme.

“Parish schools Year 8 students will transfer to a middle school site in September 2025 to complete the Y9 Senior programme.”

Lisa DeSilva, education reform team leader, said the initiative was a work in progress.

She said it reflects a shared commitment with teachers and school leaders to provide students with a strong foundation of transferable skills that support both academic success and personal growth.

She said: “The forthcoming Senior Seminar aims to prepare students for the demands of senior school.

“The course will equip Year 9 students with essential academic, organisational and social-emotional skills necessary for success in the classroom and beyond.”

Ms DeSilva said that, in the wake of professional development held on April 17, teachers agreed to continue meeting regularly, even on weekends, to ensure the programme’s quality.

She added: “As with all teachers working on reform after hours and weekends, they receive remuneration for their work.”