Letter to Family and Friends

Dear Families, 

At Pilgrim School, our commitment to care, connection and community is reflected in our Buddy Program, which brings students together across the school. A key partnership within this program is the intentional pairing of our Year 6 students with new Foundation students, supporting them as they begin their journey at school.

Starting Foundation is an important milestone, and the Buddy Program plays a valuable role in helping students feel settled and secure. Through regular time spent together at recess and lunchtime, Foundation students build familiarity with school routines, playground expectations and social interactions. Having an older student to guide and reassure them helps build confidence and encourages positive relationships from the very beginning. In these everyday moments, students experience what it means to be welcomed and known, reflecting the biblical call to love and care for one another.

For our Year 6 students, being a buddy is a meaningful leadership opportunity. In supporting their younger peers, students develop empathy, responsibility and confidence, while learning the importance of patience, kindness and inclusion. Acting as role models allows Year 6 students to recognise the impact of their actions and to contribute positively to the culture of the school. 

The Buddy Program reflects Pilgrim’s core values in action. It strengthens a sense of Belonging, ensuring that Foundation students feel welcomed and supported as part of the school community. Through shared experiences and leadership roles, students are encouraged to Explore relationships, responsibility and community connections. As confidence grows, both Foundation and Year 6 students are supported to Flourish, developing social skills, resilience and independence. Central to the program is Service, as older students give their time and care to support others, modelling Christ-like compassion in practical ways.

The Buddy Program continues to be an important part of life at Pilgrim School. By fostering meaningful connections between students and grounding our actions in faith and values, it supports a caring, inclusive environment where every student is encouraged to feel confident, connected and ready to learn.

Blessings,

Julie Wicks

Deputy Principal