What exactly is cohort entry?

Welcome to the world of cohort entry for new entrants!

After consulting with our community in Term 3 2023, the Board of Trustees considered all the feedback provided by current and prospective whānau and local pre-schools and made the decision to implement Cohort Entry from Term 1 2024.

Cohort entry is when new entrants start school in groups throughout the year rather than on their fifth birthday. After a child turns 5, their school start date is the first day of the next cohort entry date

In schools that have adopted a cohort entry policy, new entrants can start school in cohorts but only after they have turned five. There are two entry points per term, one on the first day of term and one at a mid-point during a term. The Ministry of Education sets these dates.

By organising students into cohorts, it allows for a sense of community and support as they embark on their educational journey together. It fosters a feeling of belonging and camaraderie among classmates, making the transition smoother and more enjoyable.

The Benefits of Cohort Entry

• Cohort entry helps children to settle more easily and have a successful transition to school.

• Starting school alongside other children helps children build relationships while benefiting their social and emotional well-being.

• enables educators to tailor their teaching strategies and curriculum to meet the specific needs and development of the group. This approach allows for a more targeted and personalised learning experience, ensuring that students are challenged and engaged at an appropriate level.

• facilitates the tracking of progress and growth. Educators can monitor the advancement of each cohort, identifying any areas that need further attention and providing timely support where necessary. This data-driven approach allows for more effective intervention and personalised guidance.
  

• There can be less disruption and stress for new entrant teachers who can prepare for groups of children arriving on a specific date rather than on an individual and ad hoc basis throughout the year.

• Schools are able to better anticipate student numbers allowing Principals to strategically plan for transitions and welcoming events.

• Supports whānau to connect with the school and enables teachers to address parents in a group about important points around schooling and school entry.

• Cohort entry would enable new parents to meet each other and make connections.

Q: My Child turns 5 that day after a cohort entry date, can they start on their birthday?

A: Unfortunately not. Your children would be starting at the next cohort entry date.

Q: My child turns 5 the day after a cohort entry date, can they begin a day earlier with the cohort?

A: Unfortunately not. Children in New Zealand can’t be enrolled until they are 5.

Q: When is the latest my child can start school?

A: In New Zealand, all children must be enrolled by their 6th birthday.

Q: My child is just 5 and has already been enrolled in another New Zealand school under a non-cohort policy and we are transferring to Lincoln Primary do we need to wait until the next cohort begins?

A: No, as your child has already been enrolled, they can begin immediately at Lincoln Primary.

So, what do you do next? 

Once you have checked your usual place of residence is within our school zone, you can complete our online enrolment form.  The School Office will then be in touch to request the necessary documents to confirm the enrolment.  You will then be sent further information about starting school with us including the date and time for your cohort pre-entry visit and parent information meeting. This normally takes place on the Wednesday before the children start.

For any further queries please feel free to contact the school office on 03 325 2571 or email admin@lincolnprimary.ac.nz