Monbulk Primary Preps have made a great start to their first year of school. Starting ‘Big School’ can be exciting and scary at the same time. At Monbulk Primary School the teachers and students do everything they can to help the newest students feel welcome and happy.
They begin transition to Monbulk Primary through the Step into Prep program. In Step into Prep children meet teachers, become familiar with their classroom and the different rules and routines of school. The Step into Prep program lasts for four weeks, and children become familiar with the classroom environment, and begin to feel more confident every day.
In early December the new Preps attend Orientation Day where they meet their Grade 6 buddies, and have their first taste of real Primary school. The Buddies give the Preps their yellow Prep hat to welcome them to Monbulk Primary School. Monbulk Primary Buddy program helps the Prep students feel connected and seen. They know there is always someone to play with and someone who can help them in the yard. Buddies spend time together throughout the year; playing together at recess and lunchtime, drawing together, or even having a Pyjama Picnic to remember the letter ‘P’! Monbulk Primary Prep students look up to their buddies and feel very special when they play together.
Monbulk Primary also recognise the value of being Buddy for the Grade 6 students. The senior students display excellent responsibility and maturity and become caring role models for their Buddies. They take on their role with enthusiasm, and show great care and kindness to their Buddies, and any other Prep needing help or company.
Monbulk Primary Buddy program helps the Prep and Grade 6 students form bonds for their whole school life, and creates connections and memories which will last a lifetime. In spite of all of the disruptions of the year so far, both Prep students have made a settled and happy start to the year thanks to their Buddies. Buddies make everything better!
