Back to school is never easy, but Melanie Sanderson Managing Editor of the Good Schools Guide is clear that year nine is the worst.
She says that when she gets parents calling her saying their chid is having a horrible time and they've got no friends the first thing she asks is what year they're in.
So often it's the dreaded year 9, and when I interviewed my kids for my podcast it was a resounding yes, it's the worst. If we know that then we don't need to panic and can be calmer in supporting our kids.
Her advice is to hang on for at least two terms and support your kid through the turmoil if you can.
She says she find a really good time to move is at around 16, when they know themselves better and have weathered the social storm.
What's your experience? Leave a comment because I'd love to know.