The Yarrabah School Age Transition Program stands out for its distinctive approach.

At the conclusion of each academic year, students undergo a week-long transition period in their upcoming classrooms with new teachers and support staff. This intentional process has proven highly effective in facilitating a seamless transition for students into the next school year. By the end of this transition week, students are familiar with their class, peers, and staff.

A crucial aspect of this transition involves engaging with the students' families. Before the transition week, a final parent-teacher meeting takes place to discuss the progress achieved during the year, individual goals, and the potential for new targets in the upcoming year. This meeting serves as a valuable opportunity to ensure that information is retained, enabling a swift start to the next school year with the necessary details for establishing new goals and strategies, thereby minimizing disruptions to teaching and learning.

Transition week at Yarrabah School is characterised by activities designed to foster connections and an emphasis on enjoyment. Each day, students receive support from therapists and specialists who facilitate regular programs, particularly assisting those who require extra guidance and care during this period.

To further enhance the transition experience, the school ensures that students receive ample notice and opportunities to familiarise themselves with their new environments before transition week. Additionally, students and their families receive a social story and a transition booklet, providing valuable assistance during this transitional phase.

Over the years, feedback from parents, staff, and leaders consistently highlights the significant positive impact of this transition week on the successful start of the following year.

We have also developed a number of transition videos that provide additional information about the section each child will be learning in the next year.

• Moving into Lower Secondary