Welcome back to our new families and welcome back to the community - Transition to the New School Year

 Hi there to everyone in the school community and welcome back to the new school year.

I am trying a new form of communication to you, the school community, in 2026 and I hope it will alleviate the need for copious amounts of information within the current newsletter format, and I am also hoping this new blog series will give families some insight into topics of interest and my view and opinion about such topics, as your child's school leader.

As we start the new year, I thought my first topic would be about transition to a new school year. This could mean starting school, as a new Kindergarten student, it could be starting at a new school, in a new community, and it is also a relevant topic for all students starting a new school year, in a new class, with new teachers, and new classmates.

Transitions and Continuity of Learning

The NSW Department of Education School Excellence Framework states that in a school that is excelling in its Learning Culture they will have a 'systematic approach for supporting the diverse range of student transition needs. This includes those at risk to ensure the continuity of learning and wellbeing of all students from entry to post school' and 'students and parents/carers are engaged early as key collaborators in all transition processes'.

In our school community, it is vital that we, the parents and the school staff, collaborate and share the process for each student to succeed in their transition. Our school collects and analyses information to inform and support students’ successful transitions. The school promotes strong partnerships with parents/carers including those with students whose continuity of learning or wellbeing is at risk.

Ideally, we would offer all children the foundational tools to progress seamlessly through their education and maintain their continuity of learning, no matter what their starting point and the relative advantages they bring to their education experience. 

Transition to School - Kindergarten

Starting school is a big change for your child and family, and a good start will help set your child up for long-term success. While successful transitions can better prepare children to handle challenges they may encounter, there is also evidence linking good transitions to academic success in later years. 

From a child’s perspective, they move from early childhood education and care (if they have accessed it) into formal schooling, and what’s being taught, what’s being measured, what’s being valued all changes. It changes again when they move from primary into secondary schooling. 

Welcome to 'big school'

Starting school is a big milestone for children and their families. The transition to primary school both challenging and exciting. Help your child through the transition by:

• encouraging them to explore their feelings
• helping them connect to their school
• supporting them in building friendships and relationships
• empowering them to build their confidence and independence.

Your child’s teacher is your partner in supporting their education. They will let you know the best way to keep in touch with them and find out about your child’s progress. Keep your child’s teacher informed of any changes in your child’s life that may affect their learning or enjoyment of school. 

Transitioning to a new school

To transition well to a new school, focus on preparation (visit, practice routine), positivity (frame it as an adventure), connection (join activities, use buddy systems, talk to staff), and patience (don't rush friendships, allow time to adjust). Open communication with your child and the school, plus establishing clear home routines, provides stability and support for navigating new social landscapes and academic spaces. 

First Weeks & Months (Settling In) for the student

Get involved: Encourage joining clubs, sports, or activities to meet peers with similar interests.

Utilize support: Connect with teachers, mentors, or the school's buddy system; they are there to help.

Be Patient with Friends: Don't rush to find a "new best friend"; strong friendships take time.

Avoid Comparisons: Focus on the new experiences rather than dwelling on the old school.

Maintain Routines: Keep consistent routines at home for homework, play, and relaxation. 

For Parents (Support)

Model Positivity: Your attitude influences your child; show confidence and adaptability.

Keep Talking: Have open conversations and acknowledge that feeling nervous is normal.

Connect with Other Parents: Build your own support network by meeting other parents.

Reach Out to the School: Don't hesitate to ask the school for help or resources. 

Transitioning to a new class

Emotional Management

Acknowledge Feelings: It's normal to feel nervous; talk about it with parents or teachers.

Use Positive Self-Talk: Remind yourself, "I can handle new things," or "I'm ready for this".

Model Positivity: Parents can share their own successful transition stories.

Stay Calm: A calm attitude from parents helps kids feel more secure. 

Actions in the New Class

Introduce Yourself: Say your name, share a hobby, and mention an interest to make connections.

Join In: Participate in school activities and clubs that interest you, to meet new people.

Ask for Help: Don't be afraid to ask teachers or older students (buddies) for directions or help.

Offer Help: Assisting others is a great way to build friendships.

Be Open: Don't rush to find a "best friend"; let new friendships develop naturally.