THERE likely won’t be a tear in sight among the Prep class of 2023 at St Mary’s College Kingaroy on their first day of school (Tuesday 24 January).
That’s because the four and five-year-olds have been practicing being ‘big school kids’ for six months, thanks to an innovative and unique Get Set For Prep Program created by the school, which transitions parents and students from kindergarten to school life.
And the program has been so popular, it’s even created an enrolment boom at the Brisbane Catholic Education school.
“Our littlest students have been practicing everything for half a year now – from how to line up, unpacking our school bags and finding the water bubblers,” Principal Carmel O’Brien, who created the program along with her teaching staff, said.
“They know the basics and are ready to be learners on their first day.
“To help strengthen their children’s independence and confidence, their parents have come along to classes, workshops, and information sessions on a fortnightly basis from July last year.”
Prep parent Amy Drew said her daughter Violet age 4 feels “so well prepared for school thanks to the Get Set For Prep Program”.
“The program’s made the idea of the first day of school less daunting for the both of us,” she said.
“Since we started the program in July, she has wanted to go to school every day, which has provided me peace of mind as a parent.
“Through the program she has had the opportunity to practice drop offs and pick-ups, and order tuckshop.
“She’s also had the opportunity to wear her uniform to school, and when she looked in the mirror, you could see the pride on her face.”
As part of the program, parent information sessions werepresented by Parenting Author Maggie Dent, Child Health Specialist Dr Kaylene Hendersen, and Parenting Expert Dr Justin Coulson.
Ms O’Brien said she felt inspired to create the unique program to help her future students transition from kindergarten to school.
“We piloted the program in late 2021 for our 2022 Prep year, and due to its’ success started it even earlier in 2022 – bringing it forward to July,” she said.
“Since then, we’re seeing more parents choosing our school for their child.
“We have a big campus at St Mary’s College, and we know this can be a barrier for some Preps.
“The opportunity for students to know where they can play or how to wear their uniform prior to their first day at school, can make all the difference to their schooling journey.”