Wellbeing
Cha Cha, Lucy and Sophie love this particular spot in our playground
Transition: Moving into 2026
As we prepare for the new school year, we recognise that change — even positive change — can bring a mix of emotions. Transitioning into a new class, meeting new friends and teachers, going to new schools and adapting to new routines can be exciting but also a little daunting for some children. With thoughtful preparation and support, we can help make the start of 2026 as smooth and positive as possible.
Strategies to support a smooth transition
Here are some ideas parents can use to help their child feel confident and settled before the new year begins:
- Foster open conversation — talk with your child about what to expect next year. Encourage them to share their hopes and any worries, and let them know it’s normal to feel nervous, curious or excited.
- Visit and familiarise — spend time passing our school grounds together during the holidays to help reduce the “unknown” and make change feel more familiar.
- Establish stable routines — getting back into regular bedtime, morning and after-school routines can help children feel secure. Don’t overdo the extra curricular in term 1!
- Build excitement and ownership — involve your child in preparation such as choosing school supplies or organising their workspace.
- Maintain connection — encourage friendships and social catch-ups to strengthen a sense of belonging.
If your child is sad about their 2026 class placement
Some students may come home uncertain or upset about their new class. You can support them by:
- Acknowledging their feelings: “I can see you’re disappointed — that makes sense. It’s okay to feel this way.”
- Highlighting what stays the same: reassure them that friendships, routines and familiar spaces remain part of their school life.
- Encouraging curiosity: help them imagine new friends to meet and new opportunities the year may bring – shift focus to the positives and possibilities.
- Keep connection: remind your child that friendships extend beyond the classroom and into the playground, so there are still opportunities to see friends they might miss. Our classes do a lot together anyway, so they’ll still see each other in class.
- Offering reassurance with time: remind them that it often takes a few weeks to settle into a new class — and many students end up enjoying their new group more than they expected.
Helpful resources
Victorian Department of Education – Transition resources for families https://www.vic.gov.au/transition-school-resources-families
School TV has also been updated to include resources supporting transition