By Karel van der Linden
Deputy Head of Primary
As the academic year ends at Northbridge International School Cambodia and other schools in Phnom Penh, many students and parents are bracing themselves for one of the most significant transitions in a child's educational journey – the leap from Grade 5 to Grade 6.
This transition marks a pivotal moment in a child's development, as they move from the familiar surroundings of Primary school into the uncharted territory of Secondary school. However, with careful planning, support, and a holistic approach, this transition can be made smoother and more manageable for everyone involved.
At the heart of easing this transition lies the collaboration between educators, parents, and students themselves. Recognizing the importance of this, our school has implemented a range of strategies to support students during this period of change. One such strategy is the organization of parent workshops aimed at providing guidance and support to parents as they navigate this transition alongside their children.
Parent Workshops
These workshops supported the understanding of the academic and social expectations of Secondary school, tips for effective communication with teachers, and strategies for supporting their child's emotional well-being during this time of change. Taster lessons and joining in some Secondary assemblies gave our students a real insight into what life will be like in August.
Buddy Programs
Additionally, we implemented buddy programs to provide additional support to vulnerable students as they transition to Grade 6. These buddy systems paired some of our G5 students with a G6 student who can offer guidance, friendship, and support. Having a buddy can help ease the anxieties of transitioning students, providing them with a familiar face and a sense of belonging in their new environment.
The transition from Grade 5 to Grade 6 is a significant milestone in a child's educational journey. By implementing parent workshops, buddy programs, and taking a holistic approach to support students' academic, social, emotional, and psychological well-being, our school has helped ease the transition and ensure that all students feel prepared and supported as they embark on this new chapter in their lives.
Metacognition is the process of thinking about one’s own thinking. It involves reflecting on how you come to conclusions, understanding why you think the way you do, and recognizing patterns in your thought processes. By developing an awareness of your thinking, you can learn to reduce cognitive biases or identify and reuse effective thought processes in different situations. Essentially, metacognition helps people become more intentional and effective in their actions and decision-making.
At Northbridge International School Early Learning, we believe that children's curiosity is a powerful tool for learning, sparking discoveries that help them develop important skills for life. Through loose parts play, we create an environment where children’s natural inquisitiveness shines.
What is art for? Why do artists create? What does it mean to be creative?
