Fostering the successful transition to school and the role of ECE

Moving from kindergarten to school is a major step. A positive transition gives children and their families, a great start to school. The Ministry of Education recently commissioned a review, focusing on what successful transitions to school look like, the factors that play a role in how well children transition from ECE to school, and the ways in which children can be supported in this transition.

Overall, one of the key findings was that successful transitions depend on the nature of the relationships between all involved. For children; their friendships, peer relationships and the relationship with their teacher are central. Respectful, reciprocal relationships between the adults involved are also key in a successful transition. This is important for all children but seems to be especially influential for the success of Māori children. Having a 100% qualified teaching team, can only enhance these relationships and the other factors that influence the transition.

Relationships permeate the other key themes for success that were identified in the literature, such as a sense of belonging and wellbeing at school, engagement in learning, learning dispositions and identity as a learner. These are the principles underlying the early childhood education curriculum Te Whariki. Children who have teachers that take time to get to know them, affirm their culture, recognise and build on their prior learning, and support children to reach their potential, reflect many of the attributes of a successful transition.

The report can be found here.

Some articles on transitioning to school can be found here and here.