Transitioning from kindergarten to Prep School marks a significant milestone in a young student's academic journey. At LEH International School Foshan, we understand the importance of ensuring this transition is seamless and enjoyable for students and parents. So in this article, we invite Ms Bateman, Head of the Prep School, to share the key concept about the British national curriculum and essential tips to support your little ones as they embark on their journey to LEH Foshan Prep School.
Ms Bateman is the Head of the Prep School and has 30 years of experience as an educator and leader in both British and international schools in the UK, Portugal, and Egypt. Her journey in education has been wide-ranging. In 2009 she established herself as a leader when she became the founding Headteacher of an independent school in the UK. In her last position, Ms Bateman worked as The Headteacher of Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) and Primary, a 6-form entry school at a well-regarded British International School in Cairo, Egypt. Mrs Bateman holds a BA (Hon) in Education from Staffordshire University, a PGCE from Edge Hill University and an MA SEN Education from Cambridge UK. She is currently completing her NPQH.
A School Journey through
the British System
LEH Foshan follows the British national curriculum. The British national curriculum builds on strong foundations, encompassing a comprehensive array of subjects and standards. Structured into distinct phases known as 'Key Stages,' the national curriculum guides a student's progression through years of education. Upon concluding each Key Stage, educators conduct formal evaluations of your child's performance. Notably, Key Stage 1 commences with Year 2.
Age Placement Guidelines at LEHF
The national curriculum is just one element in the education of every child. There is time and space in the school day and in each week, term, and year to range beyond the national curriculum specifications. The national curriculum provides an outline of core knowledge around which our teachers can develop exciting and stimulating lessons to promote the development of pupils’ knowledge, understanding, and skills as part of the wider school curriculum.
Communication:
The Key to Comfort
Your child is bound to be wondering what school will be like when they arrive and what sort of things happen during the day. Share the school's name, teachers, and relevant details to aid your child's adjustment to this significant change. If a friend or classmate will join them, inform your child; a familiar face fosters a smoother transition. Yet don't fret if this isn't the case; children adapt remarkably well.
LEHF Prep School will provide information about the first day and expectations. This insight helps your child grasp the upcoming experience. Be candid – children are perceptive. Explain that it is ok to feel nervous or sad and they will get tired, but they can always tell their teacher, as well as emphasise the importance of communicating with teachers promptly.
Setting the Stage
for a Confident Start
Preparing your child for their first school day begins at home. Familiarising them with the daily routine sets a confident tone, ensuring a smooth entry into the school environment. This proactive approach fosters independence, a crucial life skill. Also, prioritise a consistent bedtime routine, ensuring quality sleep for better school day performance.
Infuse excitement into the transition by making school uniform preparation enjoyable. Try it on, embark on shoe shopping adventures, and let them choose their stationery, to reduce nervousness and enhance readiness. Encourage your child to be as independent as possible by practising dressing and undressing themselves. Elastic waistbands and Velcro shoes can help build your child’s confidence with these tasks. Empower your child to embrace these tasks, bolstering their confidence for a successful school experience.
Fostering Parent-School
Collaborative Partnership
While the school offers comprehensive academic assistance and pastoral care to students, maintaining a strong partnership between parents and the school is paramount to ensure the holistic well-being of each student. Effective communication between parents, educators, and students is essential throughout the transition process. At LEH Foshan, we maintain open channels of communication to address any concerns or questions that may arise. Regular updates on a child's progress, coupled with opportunities for parents to engage with teachers, create a supportive network that contributes to a positive transition experience.
Finally, the journey to Prep School represents a remarkable chapter in your child's educational voyage, and at LEH International School Foshan, we are dedicated to accompanying you and your child every step of the way. Rest assured that our collective efforts will pave the way for a confident, empowered, and successful start to their Prep School journey.
