Transition Pre-School to Prep

PURPOSE

To ensure that effective and positive interaction and communication occurs between teachers, students, parents, local pre-schools and child care centres, during the transition process. We will ensure that new parents and students feel happy, safe and confident in their new environment.

IMPLEMENTATION

1.    A close liaison between Great Ryrie Primary School and local Pre-School and Child Care Centres will be maintained.

2.    Parents of/and with pre-school students will be encouraged to visit and observe facilities and programs in action. School tours and open days/nights will be advertised through the pre-school facilities.

3.    Each year, the Principal, Assistant Principal and the Prep teachers will implement a program to promote and enhance the transition process from pre-school to school including:   Information evening in November and Orientation sessions in early December.  Parents will be invited to join the Principal for an informal discussion while pre-school students are involved in the orientation process.

4.    Each year the school’s Information Booklet will be upgraded and distributed to new parents on Orientation Day.  This booklet will provide:  general school information, Prep  information, a list of items needed, student safety and welfare information and other relevant items.

5.    The Parents and Friends Association will be invited to arrange morning teas and displays of uniform and other school requirements on specified days for the parents of beginning pupils.

6.    Contact will be made between the local pre-school teachers and the Prep grade teachers during the year to discuss individual student needs. This will ensure that transition fosters a caring and supportive program.

7.    During the January break each student will receive a letter from their class teacher, welcoming them to Great Ryrie and expressing excitement at having them in the class.

8.    A Buddy program will begin with the Level 4 students during Term 1.

9.    A buddy and parent picnic will occur during Term 1 so that parents have the opportunity to meet their child’s buddy.

10.  An area of the playground will be set aside for Prep use during Term 1.

11.  One to one student/teacher assessments and parent/teacher interviews will take place during Term 1.

Reviewed: May 2008

Approved: