At BWPS, we prioritise seamless transitions between key educational stages, including early childhood to Kindergarten, ensuring we create an environment where students can thrive academically, socially and emotionally. Through strategic planning, collaboration with families, and targeted support programs, the school intentionally facilitates transitions with care, ensuring that students feel supported and empowered to navigate changes confidently. π±ππ€
The Ready, Set, Go! (RSG) Program evolved in 2018 as a school readiness program. It is refined each year in semester two, targeting preschool-age students enroled in our school. These sessions are run by our expert teachers. The very popular program is supported by policy and processes. πβ¨π
An application for student enrolment is required through an expression of interest form to ensure equity and transparency. Students may access a term or the semester depending on supply and demand. To be eligible for the program, students must be enroled to start Kindergarten the following year. πβοΈπ
BWPS also facilitates Headstart sessions in term 4. This is a more formal preschool to school transition program. It aims to promote positive connections and a shared commitment to our school culture. π€π«π
During Headstart sessions, the school facilitates parent information sessions. In the classroom, students complete work with teachers and support staff. π¨βπ©βπ§βπ¦ππ©βπ«
To support families who question whether their child is ready for school, several processes are implemented. These include:
- School readiness checklists πβ
- Parent meetings with the Kindergarten AP and Principal π©βπ«π€π¨βπΌ
- Ongoing observations conducted on students during RSG sessions ππ
- Preschool visits π«π§π¦
Consequently, our parents make informed decisions about their childβs school readiness before the school year commences. π§ β π
Through this process, relationships based on open communication and trust are established with new families. π€π¬β€οΈ
Importantly, 95% of our children who are enroled in Kindergarten the previous year actually attend the following year. πππ
With all transition programs in place, students and parents/carers are engaged early as key collaborators. π€π¨βπ©βπ§βπ¦
By emphasising continuity of learning across different stages and settings, our teachers create a cohesive educational journey that builds upon students' prior knowledge and experiences, fostering a strong foundation for learning and growth. ππ±π§
Through these efforts, BWPS cultivates a culture where transitions work as opportunities for students to flourish and reach their full potential, demonstrating a systematic approach for supporting the diverse range of student transition needs at BWPS. πππ
