A: Yes, Transition to School Statements are highly beneficial and increasingly considered necessary in Australia. While not legally mandated nationwide, they are strongly encouraged by state education departments to support continuity of learning and emotional well-being during the move from early childhood education to school.
What Are Transition to School Statements?
These are structured documents completed by early childhood educators that:
- Summarize a child’s learning, strengths, interests, and developmental progress
- Share strategies that support the child’s well-being and engagement
- Help schools understand the child’s context, including family insights and cultural background
They align with the Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF) and support a smooth, respectful transition into formal schooling.
Why Are They Considered Necessary?
According to the NSW and Victorian Departments of Education:
- Continuity of learning: Statements help schools build on what children already know and can do
- Emotional safety: They reduce anxiety for children and families by ensuring schools are prepared to meet individual needs
- Inclusive practice: They highlight strengths and support strategies for children with learning difficulties or diverse backgrounds
- Collaboration: They foster communication between early childhood services, families, and schools
Are They Mandatory?
- NSW & VIC: Strongly encouraged and supported with templates and guides
- Nationally: Not legally required, but widely adopted as best practice
- Services: May choose to complete them for all children or based on family consent
Transition To School Statement Template
This template provides details on the child's interests, strengths, preferred learning methods, and more prior to starting school. The purpose of this transition statement is for educators to share their knowledge of the child with the schoolteacher in order to gain a better understanding on the best way to assist the child to transition from an early childhood setting to a primary school.
Download here: Transition To School Statement Template
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