From the Head of Junior School

Transition Time!

Transition to Kindergarten is crucial as it sets the foundation for a child’s educational journey, fostering a sense of security and belonging. In Australia, research highlights the importance of building positive relationships and trust between children, families, and educators to support a smooth transition (1)  

At Kinross Wolaroi School, Pre-Kinder students continuing to Kindergarten have participated in an 8 Week transition to Kindergarten program. This has been an opportunity for students to become familiar with the Kindergarten routine, environment, teachers and curriculum. The aim of these afternoon sessions is to ensure a smooth and successful transition to the Junior School. These visits have taken place during the afternoon in small groups. This program will conclude this Friday with Kindergarten Orientation Day. Ensuring children feel physically and emotionally safe is fundamental for their successful start in school.

This week we have welcomed our new 2025 Pre-Kinder students and their families for Meet the Teacher interviews. Early childhood education is a crucial time for developing social, emotional, and cognitive skills. Our program focuses on creating a nurturing and stimulating environment where children can explore, learn, and grow.

Enrolling now for Pre-K 2026 and Kinder 2027

Enrolments for Pre-Kinder in 2026 and Kindergarten in 2027 are now underway, with interviews and offers for these two groups scheduled for April 2025. 

Our Junior School is increasingly popular, so don't delay if you are considering enrolling your child. 

Take the first step and lodge your ONLINE ENQUIRY - then we'll be in touch to help you with the next steps. You can also book in for our next Junior School Group Tour at 3.30pm 27 November - just REGISTER HERE. A private tour can easily be arranged, if preferred, by emailing us at admissions@kws.nsw.edu.au

Year 7 Transition 

Over the course of Term 4, Year 6 students have had the opportunity to participate in a number of transition to Senior School opportunities.  Supporting our students as they transition from Year 6 to Year 7 is critical because this is a significant period of growth and development for children as they move through adolescence to adulthood. 

Research by the NSW Centre for Education Statistics and Evaluation (CESE) identifies that students who are positively engaged at school, experience positive peer relationships and display positive behaviour can be up to 6 months ahead in their expected learning. They also identified that a students’ sense of belonging in Year 7 is significantly influenced by their prior sense of belonging in the primary school, their relationships with peers and teachers, and the support for learning they receive at school and at home.

Year 6 have had the opportunity to meet with the Year 7 Coordinator, participate in a Q&A session with current Year 7 students, unpack queries or questions they might have about the Senior School with our School Psychologist and other key members of staff.  These sessions are designed to help our Year 6 students transition smoothly into the next phase of their education. Year 6 are eagerly anticipating their Year 7 Orientation Day on Friday.  

Remembrance Day 

On Remembrance Day, we honour and remember those who have served and sacrificed in wars, conflicts, and peacekeeping operations. It is a time to reflect on the bravery and dedication of our armed forces and to acknowledge the profound impact their service has had on our lives and freedoms. Junior School tolled the bell three times and observed a minute’s silence to honour and remember those who have given their lives. 

Intensive Swimming K-2 

Our intensive swimming program for Kindergarten to Year 2 is currently underway and will continue each day for the next two weeks. All students will participate in one, 30-minute lesson per day throughout the school day with qualified Learn to Swim instructors in our fabulous swimming pool. The purpose of these sessions is to develop water confidence, survival skills and some stroke technique. Learning to swim equips children with a vital life skill that enhances their safety, fitness, and confidence in and around water.