Our Prep enrolment process has been developed with care to ensure a smooth and supportive transition for both children and their parents. Below, you will find detailed information about our approach to the Prep enrolment process, reflecting our commitment to nurturing a positive and inclusive learning environment from the very start.
Initial Interview
Choosing the right school is a significant decision, and we understand that parents and carers endeavour to find the most fitting environment for their child's development and learning. During the initial interview, our primary objective is to gain insights into your child's history and development from your perspective, as their first and most influential educators.
Prep interviews are usually held in Term 1 or 2 of the year before your child begins Prep, with your child also joining you for this meeting. We understand that many children are still settling into Kindy at this stage, so we aim to make the experience relaxed, enjoyable and engaging for them. We also recognise that children grow and develop signficiantly in the year prior to Prep, and this initial interview is just one of several opportunities for us to get to know your child.
The initial interview also serves as an important occasion for you to ask questions and ensure Mater Dei aligns with your family’s values and expectations. It is a time for open dialogue, where you can explore our educational philosophy, curriculum, support services, and the overall community environment to confirm it is the right fit for your family.
Getting to know your child
Following your decision to accept a place a Mater Dei, we will continue to engage with you and your child throughout the year. These moments allow us to get to know your child in a relaxed and natural setting, ensuring that by the time Prep begins, they are familiar with our educators and the school environment.
Example schedule:
- Teddy Bear 'Meet & Greet' Picinic (Term 2: Thursday, 30th April 9am to 10am)
- Book Week Parade and playdate (Term 3: Tuesday, 25th August 8:45am to 10am)
- 'Getting to Know Our Prep Learners' Transition Day (Term 4: Thursday, 8th October 9am to 10am)
- Kindergarten Visits (Term 4: From Monday, 26th October )
- Orientation Morning (Term 4: Thursday, 12th November 9am to 10:30am)
Partnering with Kindergartens and Allied Health Professionals
Collaborating with Kindergartens
We prioritise a smooth transition for children moving from kindergarten to 'big school' and place great importance on understanding each child's unique journey through close collaboration with local kindergartens. By aligning our transition activities with the natural readiness of children, we ensure they are prepared for the next phase of their educational journey. Strategic observational visits during Term 4 allow us to observe potential Prep students in an environment that fosters readiness for 'big school'. These visits enable us to engage in meaningful dialogue with kindergarten educators, ensuring we have a comprehensive understanding of each child's development, strengths, and needs.
Engaging with Allied Health Professionals
Expanding our support network to include allied health professionals (when applicable) is crucial for a well-rounded approach to each child's transition. Recognising the invaluable insights that professionals such as speech pathologists, occupational therapists, and psychologists provide, we actively seek collaboration. This partnership allows us to delve deeper into a child's history, challenges, and strengths, ensuring a tailored and effective transition plan. Through detailed discussions and planning with allied health professionals, we can incorporate strategies that have proven beneficial, ensuring a seamless and supportive start to their journey at Mater Dei Catholic Primary School.
We are dedicated to providing a nurturing, inclusive, and stimulating environment where your child can grow, learn, and thrive and encouage you to contact our friendly team should you have any questions about our Prep enrolment process.
P. 07 3514 4100
E. pashgrovewest@bne.catholic.edu.au