Supporting Students
Student Transition
During the second stage of consultation, the community highlighted concerns about the pastoral care differences between primary and secondary schools, the mixing of various age groups and the readiness of students.
While the Middle Years approach helps ease the pressure and uncertainties associated with moving from the primary school environment, parents and students will need support during this time of change.
One of the most important aspects of the Middle Years is to ensure our students receive the care and support they need in this critical stage of their lives. The ease of this transition will often depend on the student’s teacher. Transitional programs will ensure students who were well served by the current system will lose nothing in a systemic move towards the Middle Years approach to teaching and learning.
Some primary and secondary schools have already been working together in a variety of ways to help support students moving into and out of the Middle Years. Schools will be encouraged to continue these programs.
Programs for specific student groups, such as those with special needs or who are at risk, will continue with the Middle Years.
Aboriginal and Islander Education Workers will work with Indigenous students and communities to provide targeted support for Indigenous students.
Transitions will be addressed both systemically and at the school level through a focus on the Middle Years Policy and Principles Framework, and the requirement for schools to develop a School Implementation Plan that specifically addresses these issues. Schools will work with parents to best prepare students moving into and out of the Middle Years.
Local Area Implementation Groups consisting of senior DET representatives, principals and stakeholders from relevant schools will develop transition arrangements for 2008. Student Services Division will provide specific advice to schools on transition.
Information for Parents and Students
The department has prepared the Parent Guide to the Middle Years, which will be provided to all parents of Middle Years students. Teachers are encouraged to read all the information available so they are able to answer questions and reassure parents and students during the transition period.
