By Callum Ludwig
Exploration, connection and discovery were the key themes for the new Preps starting their school journey at Yarra Junction Primary School.
For returning students, the focus is on re-establishing connections, reviewing routines and setting the tone for a successful year as classes resumed on Wednesday 29 January.
Foundation Curriculum Leader and Prep Teacher at Yarra Junction Primary School Tania Scott said both Preps and returning students will leave the first week feeling supported, valued, and ready to embark on an exciting school year.
“Making a strong start to the school year is absolutely vital for students, their families, and staff, as it sets the tone for a positive and productive year ahead,” she said.
“Ultimately, a strong start benefits the entire school community by fostering trust, connection, and a shared commitment to growth, it’s a foundation for success, ensuring that every student, family, and staff member feels ready and excited for the year ahead,”
“The start of the school year is an exciting time full of promise and potential. It’s a chance for students to feel inspired, supported, and motivated as they begin their learning journey for the year ahead.”
For their first week of primary school, the Preps explored their classrooms, located important buildings like classrooms and bathrooms and learnt about the different school routines. Preps had interactive games and discussions to ease the nerves and settle in, got a taste for their specialist subjects (Visual Arts, Physical Education, Culture and Science and Performing Arts) and focused on their social and emotional learning, hands-on activities and outdoor play and exploration.
Returning students took part in ‘Welcome Back Activities’ like icebreaker games, revisited the school values, set goals for the year, did a light review of what was learnt last year and started to foster teamwork and collaboration in their new classes with group activities and projects.
Ms Scott identified how the start of the school year is an important time for students, staff and parents.
Ms Scott listed Building Confidence, Fostering Belonging and Establishing Routines as the key goals for students at the strat of the school year
Establishing Trust and Partnership, Clear Communication and Easing Transitions as the focus for families.
Setting the Tone, Team Collaboration and Motivation and Momentum as the objectives staff will work towards at school.
