Supporting children during transitions for a successful new year.
As we approach the end of the school year, educators have been preparing students for the following year. Whether transitioning within the school or joining for the first time, St Peter’s Woodlands is committed to ensuring every child feels supported in their transition to the next year level to give them every opportunity for a successful start to the new school year.
Why Transition Programs Matter
It is normal for children to experience feelings of anxiety and uncertainty whilst transitioning from one year level to the next. Our carefully curated transition programs aim to support students adjust to their new environments, teachers and classmates by focusing on familiarity, routines, excitement and opportunity. By providing children with reassurances as well as the tools to work through any challenging feelings, it is our hope they build confidence within themselves to embrace the new academic year.
Our Heads of School and educators have specifically tailored the programs for different age groups to give children a structured approach to settling in for the year ahead.
Early Learning Centre Transition Day
The Early Learning Centre Transition Day is designed to gently introduce these young learners to a new environment, with the opportunity for children and their families to meet with the child’s educators. Children spend time exploring the new classroom setup to start building familiarity with their play spaces, engaging in activities similar to those they’ll experience regularly. The morning focuses on building comfort and excitement, ensuring these youngest students look forward to starting the new year.
Flying Start Program – Reception Transition
For children entering Reception, the Flying Start Program introduces students to the broader concept of school by gradually familiarising them with their new environment, peer group and teachers. The program includes several meet-and-greet sessions with their teachers, play-based activities to help build friendships, and structured learning experiences that introduce them to routines and basic skills they’ll develop throughout the year. Starting in Term 3, children attend various visits to the Reception classes finishing with the final visit in their 2025 class with their 2025 teacher. This phased approach fosters a sense of belonging and confidence and helps these young learners feel ready to start Reception and their primary school journey with as much confidence as possible.
For further details, you can view the full article here.
Powering Up to Primary – Year 2 to Year 3 Transition
Moving from Year 2 to Year 3 often brings new challenges and responsibilities. Powering Up to Primary is a program that supports students as they transition to the next phase of their primary education. Activities are designed to introduce new expectations, opportunities and routines while emphasising independence and teamwork. Children participate in classroom visits, chat with the Head of Primary and meet with their new teachers in a series of enjoyable, supportive sessions.
For further details, you can find out more here
Year 5 Stepping Up Day
For Year 5 students, entering Year 6 and their final year of primary school is a significant milestone. Stepping Up Day is tailored to help them prepare for leadership roles and increased responsibilities in Year 6. During this transition day, students are introduced to activities that highlight teamwork, problem-solving, and leadership skills, which they will continue developing throughout the year. This day is designed to help them feel empowered, confident, and ready to step into the role of school leaders, while fostering a sense of pride and community among what will soon be their Year 6 cohort. In addition, Year 5 children and their families attend an evening launch of the DARE Graduate Diploma to ignite excitement and momentum for the amazing experiences undertaken through this bespoke program
Year 6 Transition Secondary School Program
The Year 6 Transition to Secondary School Program, part of the DARE Graduate Diploma, prepares students for the move to high school by building resilience, communication, and adaptability. Throughout the year, Year 6 teachers have conducted a range of activities and strategies to help support our students in making a successful transition. This concludes with our Year 6 Transition Day, a day dedicated to discussing how students can ready themselves for next year. The day also features a Q&A panel with former SPW students who are completing Year 12 and Year 7, who share their experiences and strategies for a smooth transition. The program aims to equip students with skills and confidence for their new journey, celebrating their growth and readiness for high school.
Supporting New Students
New Student Visiting Day
For new students entering Years 1–6, this day offers a warm welcome starting with a welcome from an allocated peer buddy and then classroom visits, teacher introductions, and a community BBQ for parents and students.
New student program throughout the year
Students starting at any time throughout the year are personally welcomed by a leadership team member and paired with a buddy to help them settle in. Trial days and ongoing support ensure they feel embraced by the SPW community from day one.
Moving On Day
Moving On Day provides a valuable opportunity to experience the new class dynamic, meet future classmates, and get familiar with the upcoming year’s teachers. For new students, it serves as an introduction to the school’s culture and values, providing them with a welcoming experience before they officially join. The goal of Moving On Day is to ensure that every child feels a sense of belonging and looks forward to the new year.
Parental and Teacher Support in Transition Programs
Each transition program emphasises the importance of support from both parents and teachers. The school hosts tours, orientation sessions, open mornings, and information sessions where parents can learn about what their children will experience. Teachers are actively involved in observing students’ interactions, identifying areas where additional support might be needed to help students adjust confidently.
Getting to Know You Meetings
As part of the new year transition initiatives, Getting to Know You Meetings are scheduled for early in the new school year. These sessions are designed to foster strong connections between teachers, students, and families from the outset. During these meetings, parents and teachers will have an opportunity to discuss the child’s unique needs, interests, and any areas where additional support might be beneficial. This one-on-one time allows educators to gain valuable insights that help them personalise their approach to each child, creating a caring and responsive classroom environment.
The Getting to Know You Meetings also give parents the chance to address any specific concerns or ask questions about their child’s classroom routine, curriculum expectations, and social dynamics. By establishing a supportive relationship with the child’s teacher from the beginning, parents can feel reassured that their child will be welcomed and understood in their new classroom. Families are also asked to complete a Getting to Know your Child form which allows parents to share any sensitive information that they may wish to discuss at a time when their child is not present.
Preparing for the Future with Confidence
It is our hope that with these tailored programs, students enter the new year feeling supported, equipped, and excited for what lies ahead.
Parent Resources
Last year’s article by Positive Minds Australia, Class Placements: Helping children adapt to a new teacher and peer group in 2024 offers some great advice to parents seeking to support their children through class transitions.