FRIENDSHIPS have been forged as part of a kindergarten buddy program which aims to ease primary school transition for pre-entry students.
As part of the program, McArthur Park Kindergarten teamed up with Year 5 and 6 students from Newbery Park and St Anthony’s Catholic primary school throughout term three and four.
Kindergarten director Sally Gower said the buddy program was about making new friends, building relationships and increasing awareness and connection with others in the wider community outside of the kindergarten environment.
“We started connecting with students from the primary schools in term two and in term three we partnered children up with their school buddies,” she said.
“Pairs were formed by what school the children would be going to next year, so those going to Newbery Park were matched with students from there and so on.
“The buddy program eases the transition process into school and means the kindergarten kids will have a Year 7 friend when they start reception.
“It is really important they have a familiar face and are starting school with stronger connections to the school environment through their buddies.”
Ms Gower praised the program’s success and said children looked forward to having their “big friend” come and visit.
“This program is something we as a kindergarten believe in,” she said.
“It is such a positive connection for both parties, the children and the students enjoy building that relationship with each other.
“It also really helps with the transition program and makes the thought of starting school not as daunting.
“Last term the buddies worked together and created a monster, which the Year 6 students then made out of felt and gave to the children.
“They loved it.”
The buddy program also gives children the opportunity to visit their “big friends” in the school grounds.
A group catch-up was organised this week at McArthur Park Kindergarten to mark and celebrate the end of the school and kindergarten year.
Students enjoyed sharing lunch time together and exploring the outdoors.
