At Southbridge School we place a large importance on creating smooth transitions for our tamariki (children) in their learning journey. With one of the most significant transition points being as they enter our Kura (school), we work with our local Play Centre, Preschools & Home Based Carers to ensure we are doing everything possible to support each tamariki to make their transition to school as successful as we can. Our main goal is to establish beautiful relationships with each child, and work to do this through:

• Termly visits to Playcentre, local Preschools & Home Based Carers

• Each child’s three school visits that are held the two weeks before their Cohort Entry is due to begin

• As well as through our Preschool Programme

Our Preschool Programme runs in Terms 2, 3 & 4 of each school year, and is open to all 4 year old students who will be attending our Kura (school). Each session runs from 2pm – 2.45pm, and the dates will be confirmed the term before and added to our website, as well as shared with all Preschool & Playcentre providers to pass onto each family. You are welcome to bring your child along to as many Preschool Programmes sessions as possible.

The preschool programme is based on parents supporting their children during their transition to school. It is an opportunity for the children to start integrating into school with input from their parents in a school environment.

Your child will benefit most by being involved in cooperative activities in a learning community. During these afternoons we will have story time and a chance for students to engage in our play-based learning environment (where they can develop & use their cooperative skills through the provocations we have available e.g. arts & crafts, construction, play-dough, lego, painting etc). Parents are required to stay for the entire session, and unfortunately due to health and safety regulations, we are unable to have any younger siblings attend our preschool programme.

Preschool Programme dates for 2025:

Term 2:

Wednesday 21st May (Week 4)

Wednesday 18th June (Week 8)

Term 3:

Wednesday 6th August (Week 4)

Wednesday 3rd September (Week 8)

Term 4:

Wednesday 22nd October (Week 3)

What you can do for now:

• Please make sure you have pre-enrolled your child with us. Pre-enrolment booklets are available through Sonya in the office or please contact admin@southbridge.school.nz

• If you plan to attend the next Preschool Programme please RSVP to Ashleigh Tibbotts at ashleigh@southbridge.school.nz

If you have any questions about an upcoming Preschool Programme, or any other questions related to your child starting school at Southbridge, please don’t hesitate to be in touch.

Ashleigh Tibbotts

Ashleigh@southbridge.school.nz