It has been a smooth transition to school for the 17 Prep students at St Paul’s in Monbulk. The Prep students began 2022 confident and eager to learn due to the success of the transition programs at St Paul’s.
The St Paul’s “Ready, Set, Prep” program runs every second Friday. Three year old, four year old and five year old pre-school children are invited to the school on a fortnightly basis for ‘a taste of school’. This involves sessions that focus on cooking, gardening, dancing, singing, art and even a science fair!
“The “Ready, Set, Prep” program aims to support pre-school children and has a focus on fine motor skills and gross motor skills. The program is centred on getting ready for school life,” said principal Michael Watt.
Deputy principal Stephenie Peels and Prep teacher Maria Cook said that by creating the ‘Ready, Set, Prep’ programs, the school was able to build relationships with local pre-schools and the pre-school children, as well as their families. Now the whole school community is benefiting.
Mrs Cook could see benefits for both families and the school.
“Our Prep children begin school life at St Paul’s excited about all the things they’ll learn. The children already know us through their transition program, they are familiar with the surroundings, and we know the names of all the family members, including younger siblings.”
Mrs Peels added, “By experiencing what school looks and feels like, the students feel comfortable, valued, relaxed and are more able to nurture new friendships”.
Mr Watt agrees.
“At St Paul’s, the ‘Ready, Set, Prep’ program equates to a socially and emotionally confident child who demonstrates a love of learning from the very beginning of their primary school life.
“Getting the opportunity to engage in school lessons and activities is a wonderful opportunity for pre-school children to experience what belonging to a school will be like the following year. St Paul’s know that these are memories the Prep students will hold on to for a long time.”
The ‘Ready, Set, Prep’ programs are an annual occurrence at St Paul’s, located at 59 Moores Rd Monbulk. The invitation is extended to all 3, 4 and 5 year old pre-school students from any kinder or child care centre. Families are encouraged to register today by calling the school office on 9756 7201.
