11/6/2020 

A Virtual Transition Project which helps children who are leaving primary school prepare for starting secondary school in September, is underway in Cardiff.

Developed by The Cardiff Commitment, in partnership with the Council's E-Learning Team, the scheme provides Year 6 pupils with the opportunity to learn about their new secondary school, which they will be transitioning to after the summer break.

It enables them to access a secure web page and google classroom and hosts a variety of activities established by the secondary school to encourage pupils and staff to communicate and get to know one another better. It also allows new pupils to find out more about the school including information about staff, maps of the school, uniform, expectations as well as allowing them to post any questions they may have.

Cabinet Member for Education, Employment and Skills, Cllr Sarah Merry said: "The transition period from primary school to secondary school is really important for children and gives them the chance to familiarise themselves with their new school as well as building relationships, gaining confidence and feeling safe.

"With schools currently closed, children are missing out on the usual transition sessions and may be worried or anxious about their new school. This scheme helps to relieve those feelings, giving pupils an opportunity to develop skills which lead to improved outcomes in secondary school."

The Virtual Transition Project was piloted in Eastern High School, Fitzalan High School and Cathays High School. A further five schools have now engaged with the project including  Cantonian High School, St Illtyd's High School, Corpus Christi R.C High School, Mary Immaculate High School and Cardiff West Community High School.

Area Leader Transition for Health and Wellbeing at Cathays High School; Cari Merriott said, "It is fantastic that Cathays High School and our feeder Primaries are part of this Project, to ensure a smooth transition for Year 6 in these difficult times.

"It enables us to carry on with our partnership working which we have done through Year 6. We want our new starters to feel happy and excited to join high school and this project certainly supports them."