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Describe Your First Day at School – IELTS Cue Card Answers & Preparation Tips

By Sunita Kadian

Updated on Sep 22, 2025 | 1.04K+ views

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Among the four IELTS test sections, the Speaking test is often considered one of the most challenging for test-takers. Many candidates feel nervous about speaking in English compared to writing, reading, or listening. The IELTS Speaking test also includes a face-to-face interaction with an examiner, which adds extra pressure for some students. 

To make it easier, IELTS offers three IELTS cue card topics in Part 2 of the test. Candidates are given one topic and are expected to speak on it for 2–3 minutes. One of the most common IELTS Speaking cue cards is “Describe your first day at school cue card”, where aspirants can share personal experiences, memories, or even creative stories. 

In this guide, you will find sample answers, follow-up questions, and tips to help you prepare effectively for this IELTS Speaking test topic. If you want to explore more topics, check our IELTS Common Speaking Topics with Sample Answers for additional practice. 

You can also explore our detailed resources on IELTS Exam Preparation, IELTS Speaking Topics 2025: Latest Questions, analyse the generalized IELTS ideal scores or explore IELTS Score for USA for specific score requirements with respect to country and boost your chances of admissions abroad. If you’re also planning higher studies, check our guides on Study in USA and Study in UK to align your IELTS journey with your study abroad goals. 

Describe Your First Day at School: IELTS Speaking Cue Card Overview

Here, the IELTS cue card topic is “Describe Your First Day at School.” You should include the following points to frame your answers:

  • Where it was / Which school it was
  • How you felt before going
  • What happened on that day
  • How you felt at the end of the day

Also Read: IELTS Speaking Introduction: Sample Answers and Structure

Describe Your First Day at School IELTS Cue Card: Model Answer 1

IELTS Cue Card Topic: Describe Your First Day at School

Points to Cover:

  • Where it was / which school it was
  • How you felt before going
  • What happened on that day
  • How you felt at the end of the day

Sample Answer: A Nervous Start Turned Sweet

I still remember my first day at St. Xavier’s School in Delhi. I was only five years old, and everything about the school looked so big—the red-brick building, the long corridors, and the huge playground. That morning, I woke up extra early because my mum was super excited, but honestly, I was just scared. I didn’t want to leave home. I cried while putting on my oversized uniform and shoes, and the school bag felt heavier than me.

As we reached the school gate, I held my mum’s hand tightly and didn’t want to let go. Inside the classroom, the teacher welcomed us with a kind smile and told us to sit in a circle. She gave us crayons and asked us to draw anything we liked. I remember I was trying to draw a sun, but my red crayon broke. A girl next to me offered me hers without saying a word, and that small moment turned into my first friendship.

By the time the last bell rang, I was having so much fun that I didn’t want to leave. I had made a new friend, sung funny songs, and even enjoyed the lunch my mum had packed. That first day started with tears but ended with smiles, and it taught me that new beginnings can be scary but also beautiful.

Also Read: 

Describe Your First Day at School IELTS Cue Card: Model Answer 2

IELTS Cue Card Topic: Describe Your First Day at School

Points to Cover:

  • Where it was / Which school it was
  • How you felt before going
  • What happened on that day
  • How you felt at the end of the day

Sample Answer: From Tears to Laughter

My first day at school took place in a small town in Uttar Pradesh, in a modest government school with just a few classrooms and a large, dusty playground. I remember standing outside the school gate, clinging to my mother’s saree, absolutely terrified. My older cousin had told me that the teacher might scold me or make me stand if I made any mistake. So, I was already half in tears even before stepping into the classroom.

To my surprise, the classroom was not scary at all. The teacher had a soft voice and a warm smile. She asked us all to introduce ourselves. I was so nervous that I completely forgot what I had rehearsed with my mum and just blurted out my name. Instead of getting angry, the teacher clapped for me, which made me feel safe. She even gave each one of us a chocolate and a small welcome sticker.

By the end of the day, I had stopped feeling afraid. I remember swinging on the iron bars in the playground and laughing with kids I had just met. When I returned home, I was proudly telling everyone about how brave I had been. That one day changed my view of school forever, and I started looking forward to going every morning after that.

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Describe Your First Day at School IELTS Cue Card: Model Answer 3

IELTS Cue Card Topic: Describe Your First Day at School

Points to Cover:

  • Where it was / Which school it was
  • How you felt before going
  • What happened on that day
  • How you felt at the end of the day

Sample Answer: A Day Full of Surprises

My first day at Spring Blossoms Preschool in Bengaluru was not something I’ll ever forget. It was a colourful little building with cartoon animals painted on the walls and cheerful music playing in the background. I wasn’t exactly scared, but I was quiet and full of questions. I kept checking my new lunch box, which had my name on it, and kept wondering what school was going to be like.

As soon as I walked in, the room was full of toys, puzzles, and soft cushions. The teacher asked us to sit in a circle and sing a welcome song. I remember trying to sing along even though I didn’t know the words. Later, we went outside to a small garden area where the teacher blew bubbles, and we all chased after them. I made two friends that day while playing on the slide, both of whom I stayed close with for many years.

When my dad came to pick me up, I ran to him with a huge smile and proudly showed him a star sticker I’d received for being “active in class.” That evening, I couldn’t stop talking about school. It wasn’t just fun, it felt like a whole new world had opened up for me.

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Describe Your First Day at School IELTS Cue Card: IELTS Speaking Part 3 Follow Up Questions

Here are some common follow-up questions for the IELTS Speaking Part 3:

1. Why is the first day at school important for a child?
Ans. The first day at school is like a doorway into a new world for a child. It marks the beginning of learning, friendships, and independence. It’s also when many kids experience emotions like fear, excitement, or even confusion for the first time outside their home environment.

2. What kind of problems do children usually face on their first day at school?
Ans. Children often feel scared or shy on the first day. Some may cry, others might not talk at all. The fear of being separated from their parents and being in an unfamiliar place can make them uncomfortable. Even small things like finding the toilet or remembering their classroom can feel overwhelming.

3. How can schools make the first day easier for children?
Ans. Schools can organise welcome activities, storytelling sessions, or small games to make children feel relaxed. Friendly teachers and a warm environment can help kids settle down. Even something as simple as giving a sticker or a chocolate can create a sense of comfort.

4. Do you think parents should accompany their child on the first day?
Ans. Yes, at least for younger kids. Having a parent nearby gives the child emotional support and helps ease their fear. But it’s also important that they gradually let go so the child learns to adjust on their own.

5. Is it okay to cry on the first day of school?
Ans. Absolutely. Crying is just a natural response to fear or anxiety. Many kids cry when they are in a new environment. With care and patience, most of them settle in quickly and stop crying after a few days.

6. How does the school environment affect a child’s learning?
Ans. A calm and supportive school environment builds a child’s confidence. If the classroom feels safe and welcoming, children are more likely to speak up, ask questions, and learn faster. But if the environment is too strict or stressful, it may scare them away from learning.

7. What’s the role of a teacher on a student’s first day?
Ans. The teacher plays a huge role. On the first day, the teacher is not just there to teach, they are also a comfort zone. A smiling teacher who talks gently can turn a child’s fear into curiosity. It’s often the teacher who helps create a child’s first impression of school.

8. Do children in your country start school at an early age?
Ans. Yes, in India, many children start going to playschool or nursery as early as 3 years old. Formal schooling generally begins at the age of 5 or 6. The trend is slowly shifting towards early education and social exposure.

9. Is school more stressful now compared to the past?
Ans. Yes, I believe so. In the past, school was more about playing and learning through fun. But now, there’s pressure to perform well in exams, join tuition classes, and even do extracurriculars. It’s good to be active, but sometimes kids hardly get time to be kids.

10. Do you think children learn better at home or in school?
Ans. Both have their roles. Home gives emotional warmth, but school teaches discipline, social skills, and teamwork. At school, children learn how to interact with others, face challenges, and work in groups, which is hard to achieve through only home learning.

11. How do children usually behave on their first day at school?
Ans. It really depends on the child. Some are confident and curious, while others feel nervous and cry. Most children behave quietly in the beginning, observe a lot, and slowly start opening up as they get used to the environment.

12. What can teachers do if a student refuses to speak on the first day?
Ans. Teachers should stay calm and not push the child too much. Instead, they can give the child time, talk softly, and maybe involve them in group activities like drawing or singing. Slowly, the child will feel safe and start speaking.

13. What role does school play in a child’s overall development?
Ans. School isn’t just about academics, it shapes a child’s personality, thinking, and behaviour. It’s where they learn values, discipline, teamwork, and confidence. It plays a huge part in turning a child into a balanced and thoughtful adult.

14. Why do some children dislike going to school?
Ans. Some children feel school is boring or too strict. Others may have had a bad experience, like being scolded or bullied. If learning feels like pressure instead of fun, children start avoiding school. It’s important to make school a place they look forward to.

15. Do memories of the first day at school stay forever?
Ans. Yes, I think those memories never really fade. Even if they’re small moments, like crying at the gate or making your first friend, they stick with us. The emotions from that day are strong, and we often talk about them years later with a smile.

Conclusion

Questions like describe your first day at schoo come under common IELTS Cue Card topics. Use simple language to describe your feelings, what you saw, and what happened.  

Practice telling your story out loud and try recording yourself to check your fluency and pronunciation.  

If you want more sample answers or want to speak with confidence in your IELTS exam, Book a free session with IELTS experts and get personalized tips and feedback to improve your fluency, vocabulary, and score. 

Important IELTS Exam Resources

IELTS Exam Overview

IELTS is required to be taken by international students and workers who wish to study or work in a country where English is the primary language of communication. Know the complete details./

IELTS Online Test

IELTS Exam Syllabus

With the right knowledge of the IELTS exam syllabus and pattern, cracking the popular English test won’t be difficult./

IELTS Syllabus

IELTS Exam Pattern

The IELTS exam pattern encompasses four major sections, i.e. listening, speaking, writing, and reading. /

IELTS Exam Pattern

FAQs

How do I start my answer for the “Describe your first day at school” cue card?

You can begin with a simple memory trigger. For example: “I still remember my first day at school, it was both exciting and scary” or “My first day at school is a memory that always makes me smile.” A warm, natural start makes your answer more engaging. 

What details should I include when describing my first day at school?

Try to cover the basics: where the school was, how you felt before going, what happened during the day, and how you felt at the end. The examiner wants to hear a complete story, not just one moment. 

Should I focus more on emotions or events in this answer?

Emotions matter more. Events are important, but telling the examiner how you felt, nervous, curious, or happy, makes your story personal and memorable. 

How long should my IELTS cue card response be?

Your answer should last 2–3 minutes. If it’s too short, the examiner won’t have enough material to judge fluency. If it’s too long, you may run out of ideas. 

Can I make up a story if I don’t remember my first day at school?

Yes! IELTS does not check facts, only your fluency and clarity. You can use your real memory or create a simple story, just keep it believable and natural. 

Is it okay to mention the name of my school in the answer?

Yes, you can mention the school name once to add realism. Just avoid repeating it again and again; it doesn’t add value to your answer.

What vocabulary can I use for the “first day at school” cue card?

Use descriptive words like nervous, shy, excited, curious, overwhelmed, warm welcome, friendly teacher, colorful classroom, or new friendship. This shows range in your vocabulary. 

How can I practice the “Describe your first day at school” cue card effectively?

Write down a version of your story, then practice speaking it aloud. Record yourself, listen to it, and time it. Practicing with a friend also helps improve fluency and confidence.

What are common mistakes students make in this cue card?

The biggest mistakes are: speaking too briefly, using only basic words, going off-topic, or memorizing a script. The examiner prefers natural, fluent speech over a perfect but robotic answer. 

Can I use both past and present tense in my answer?

Mostly stick to the past tense, since you’re recalling a memory. But if you want to add a reflection, you can use present tense. Example: “That day taught me that new beginnings can be scary but exciting too.”

How can I handle follow-up questions after the cue card?

Stay consistent with your main story. If you said you were nervous on your first day, don’t suddenly say it was exciting in Part 3. Your answers should connect naturally.

Is “Describe your first day at school” only for IELTS Speaking Part 2?

Yes, it’s a cue card topic for Part 2. But you may also get related follow-up questions in Part 3, like “Why is the first day of school important?” or “How can schools make children comfortable on their first day?”

Sunita Kadian

IELTS Expert |163 articles published

Sunita Kadian, co-founder and Academic Head at Yuno Learning is an expert in IELTS and English communication. With a background in competitive exam preparation (IELTS, GMAT, CAT, TOEFL), interview pre...

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