Strong connections with local schools help make the transition to primary a positive, confident step for our tamariki. Through visits, routines, and new experiences, we’re building belonging and supporting each child on their learning journey.
As part of our Set for School programme, we have been building strong connections with our local primary schools, reflecting our centre value of whakawhanaungatanga — nurturing relationships and a sense of belonging.
Recently, we welcomed Mrs Watts, the new entrant teacher from View Road Primary School, who joined us for mat time. She shared with the tamariki what school looks like and some of the daily routines they can expect, including using lunchboxes. To support this, we organised a special lunchbox day, giving our tamariki a chance to practise this new routine and feel more confident about the changes ahead.
This visit sparked lots of curiosity and kōrero among the tamariki, with many asking questions about classrooms, uniforms, and what big school will be like. We used this interest to create opportunities for further learning — reading books about starting school, role-playing classroom routines, and setting up a monthly lunchbox day where children could practise opening containers and managing their kai independently.
Our Set for School experiences are designed to build confidence, support independence, and reduce anxiety about the unknown. Strengthening relationships with local schools not only supports our tamariki but also fosters a sense of community and shared purpose between our centre, whānau, and schools.