Will I be in the same class as my friend, Matthew?

Probably not, is the simple answer. But you'll see him at breaks and lunchtimes and you'll soon make new friends too.

Is there really three hours of homework a night?

Sorry to disappoint you… there isn't. The homework timetable makes sure that you get a maximum of 3 or 4 subjects a night and the teachers set about 30 minutes worth for each subject. The important thing is to have a homework routine – get things done on time; don't build up a backlog of work.
You get a homework diary called a 'Pupil Planner' to write down the evening's work and when it's due in.

I'm going to be coming by bus. Will I be there on time?

Lots of people come by school-bus. You are rarely late, and if you are you will might miss assembly but not any lessons. Assembly is at 8.40 and the first lesson starts at 9.15.

Just one tip: find out from the driver or people on the bus where it is going to leave from at the end of the day. There are various stops around the school. That's especially important on the first full day of school.

What do we do in the breaks?

During morning break people go to the tuckshop or canteen and buy a snack. Others eat their lunch! Some play a quick game of football or four-square. At lunchtime you can go to the library, go to a club activity, play a game on the field, buy lunch or take your packed lunch to the canteen to eat.

What do I do with all my books?

There are a lot of these! And don't forget you have to lug them from class to class between lessons. So try not to overload your bag.
You get a locker outside your classroom. BRING A PADLOCK ON THE FIRST DAY WITH TWO KEYS. Your teacher keeps one key in case you forget or lose your key. (Don't be tempted to get a combination lock. It just tempts passers-by to try to 'crack' the code)
You can use it to store books, labcoats and games kit during the day.