The end of the year is quickly approaching, and as a school, we are well into planning for 2026. Class structures and staffing are being finalised, along with the school budget and the development of our Annual Implementation Plan. A key part of this process is preparing our students for what to expect as they move into next year.
Two significant milestones in schooling are the transitions into Prep and into secondary school. Both mark important times of change. While these transitions are exciting, the unknown can also create some anxiety for young people and families alike. Our transition program aims to prepare everyone for what lies ahead. This includes practical information — such as what to pack in a lunchbox and uniform expectations — as well as guidance on managing the emotions that come with this next big step.
A successful transition program doesn’t just focus on students as they enter or leave our school; it also ensures that all students feel connected and supported as they progress through each stage of their schooling.
Our whole-school transition program mirrors the experience we provide for our incoming Preps at Badger Creek Primary School. The transition dates and times are:
- Tuesday 28 October, 2:30–3:30pm
- Tuesday 11 November, 2:30–3:30pm
- Tuesday 25 November, 2:30–3:30pm
- Tuesday 9 December – Statewide Transition
- Grade 6 students attend secondary school
- Whole-school transition, 11:30am–1:30pm
During transition sessions, students will build relationships, set goals, and establish expectations for the year ahead. Our current Grade 6 students are also focusing on maintaining respectful relationships and online safety.
These sessions also give staff the opportunity to work with students in their new groupings, trial different combinations, and establish routines that will support cohesive classrooms in 2026. The observations gathered during these periods will guide us in finalising class structures for next year.
Requests for 2026
In 2026, we will have multi-age classes across the school, with a straight Prep class. The development of class groups involves input from all staff, with the goal of creating harmonious and productive learning environments for every student.
In the coming weeks, students will be asked to nominate peers they believe they work well with and would like to be in a class with next year. This isn’t necessarily their closest friend, but rather peers who create positive and productive learning partnerships.
Families are also invited to provide input. If you have a request based on your child’s educational needs, or on positive or challenging past experiences, please email these to scott.crawford@education.vic.gov.au by 4pm Friday 31 October.
While we can’t guarantee that all requests will be accommodated, every submission will be carefully considered as we form classes for 2026. Requests received after the deadline will not be able to be considered.
