Transition to Middle School

Starting at a new school is a significant milestone for any student. At Fintona, we provide the support to make that start a positive experience in every way.

Starting in Year 5

In Term 3, Fintona’s Head of Middle school meets the girls from the Junior Campus and all new students from other schools. This is a chance for students to share their interests and ask questions, and it helps reduce any worries about starting school in a new environment.

In Term 4, the girls entering Year 5 are invited to an Orientation Day where they navigate Tourmont, the home of the younger Middle School years at Fintona. Here, they get to know their teachers and other girls, and enjoy a glimpse of the exciting learning journey in Year 5.

At the beginning of the new school year, teachers set aside several days for a transition program, including fun activities such as treasure hunts and orienteering games. This program helps the girls to get to know their new campus and make new friends.

Early in Term 1, the girls also travel to Sovereign Hill for a three-day, two-night camp. This experiential learning opportunity is not only part of their History studies and a chance to learn about life in the Gold Rush – it’s also a chance to spend time with new friends.

Starting in Year 7

Every year, our Head of Middle School visits new students at their current school in the semester before arriving at Fintona. The girls talk about their learning strengths, co-curricular interests and what they look forward to at their new school. This is also a chance to ask questions as they prepare for the years ahead.

At Orientation Day in November, the girls start to make friends, participate in sample classes and get to know the grounds and buildings. Then in late January, before school commences, they spend a morning on campus where they are introduced to their tutor, receive their diary, and are allocated their locker.

The first three days of the Year 7 timetable are filled with special activities to help everyone settle into secondary school. Life skills sessions, informal meetings with tutors and subject teachers, and team-building activities all allow the girls to form friendships and enjoy starting a new learning journey.

Throughout Term 1, the classroom program is integrated, culminating in the Central Australia camp at the beginning of Term 2. Teachers in areas such as Science, Geography, English, and History tailor their programs to incorporate Indigenous studies which enriches the school camp experience.