The program has run for approximately five years and brings the future students into the classroom one day a week in terms three and four. The children are able to join the current kindergarten class in usual activities and as a result are more settled to begin their full time schooling.

“The purpose is to make the child’s transition from preschool, day care or home an enjoyable experience for both the children and the parents,” Glen Innes West teacher Jeanette Bush said.

“The children get to know the school, staff, children and routines before they begin kinder. They are able to build their self esteem and confidence while making friends and enjoying the positive interaction.”

Mrs Bush also highlighted the fact that the staff can get to know the children and identify their needs so that appropriate individual programs can be tailored.

Glen Innes West kindergarten teacher Justine Griffin said in the time the program has run it has proved to be very successful.

“All of the parents take the chance to bring their children in early and the days are flexible so they can come in anytime. Since the program has been running I haven’t had one child crying on their first day,” she said.

The school is encouraging enrolments now so that 2009 kindergarten students can take full advantage of the transition program.