Supporting Early Years learners to transition successfully to new school environment

Starting school is an exciting but scary time for a young child, although it may cause anxiety too. Here at BVIS, our youngest children start full time school in Foundation 1 at age 2 and we are committed to working alongside parents to ensure the smoothest transition possible from home to the classroom.

When transitioning into a new school environment, it is important to remember that every child is different. Some children may adapt to the environment quickly, waving their parent or carer goodbye and embracing classroom life just as though they have always been there. Others may need a little longer and need a familiar adult with them for their first few days or weeks. At BVIS, we run a ‘staggered entry’ programme, tailored to each child to allow them to confidently transition into full time school.

‘Staggered entry’ is used as a means of getting to know your child and of giving them the time, care and attention that they need as they start a new school. It allows your child to get to know the routines and rules of the environment gradually, so that they do not become overwhelmed by all the new things that they have to learn. Our Foundation 1 children usually take a little longer during the staggered entry programme compared to the Foundation 3 children, but all children are different, and we work with you as parents and carers to decide on the most appropriate schedule for your child.

Harper (Hoang Phuong Nghi) joined our F2 class in October 2018. At first, her family was quite nervous and worried whether Harper could adjust to the new environment. Understanding the initial difficulties that she might confront, the EYFS team worked hard to help Harper and also her family connect successfully with the school's routines by sharing advice  and insight into young learners' emotions and the best approach for starting school. "The cooperation between family and school at this stage plays a vital role for children's progress," Ms Tara - F2 Class Teacher shared.

After 5 months at BVIS, Harper's mother happily gave positive feedback about her daughter’s progress saying, "I really like how school offers activities such as the BVIS Christmas Fun Day or children's performances so that families and children can connect and adapt quickly to a new environment. Through interaction with the school's leaders and teachers, I can sense the dedication and care of the BVIS team to help children gain progress and participate in the very best learning experiences. Harper has now become more confident and enjoys class activities with friends and teachers rather than playing with an iPad. We are now no longer worried about Harper's move to BVIS."

To successful support your child through the transition to a new school environment, we offer the following advice for parents:

• Visit the school environment before your child starts: This will enable your child to build a memory of the classroom and the teacher(s) that they will be with.
• Talk positively about their new school and class: Ask your child what they are excited about, what they are worried about and share these feelings with your child’s class teacher.
• Get into a school routine before your child starts school: Get up, have breakfast, get dressed for the day. Start your day at the time when your child will be getting up for school.
• Be on time: The start and end of the school day are two very important parts of your child’s school experience. Ensuring that your child is going into school with their friends and being there to collect your child at the end of what is a long day for them will help reduce anxiety and stress. It will help your child to gain more confidence and ultimately assist them in settling into the school environment.
• Be patient: Transitioning into a new school environment is a huge change for your child. They may be more anxious, upset or angry during this period. Take time to reassure your child that you will come back to collect them.

Mrs. Catherine Roach

EYFS Coordinator and F3 Teacher