Transition
At Woodville High School, we understand that the move from primary school to high school is a significant milestone in every student’s educational journey. Our comprehensive transition program ensures that students feel confident and well-prepared for this next step in their educational journey.
Taste of High School Program
Starting in Year 6, students from our partner primary schools participate in our Taste of High School program. This initiative gives students a firsthand experience of high school life by engaging them in a variety of subjects and activities throughout the day. This also supports other visits to our school throughout Term 2 and 3 and finally their Transition Visit at the end of Term 4
For families, we provide clear support with the enrolment process, which is coordinated by the Department for Education (DfE). Families will receive an Information Pack via their child’s primary school, outlining the steps to complete and return the required forms to the DfE.
The Transition Process
At Woodville High School, we are committed to supporting every student through a smooth and successful transition from primary to high school.
Enrolment and Initial Contact
In August, families receive an Enrolment Pack via email from Woodville High School. This is to be completed online. Printed copies are available upon request, and families are welcome to visit the school for assistance. Interpreters can also be arranged to support families as needed.
Getting to Know You
In November, we hold Family Transition Interviews for all enrolling families with their child(ren). These one-on-one conversations help us get to know each student and their family, understand their individual needs, and ensure we are well prepared to support them as they begin high school.
Transition from Primary to Middle Years
At Woodville High School, we provide a carefully structured transition program to help Year 6 students feel confident and connected as they move into Year 7.
In December, students participate in Transition Days, where they experience high school life, meet key staff, and begin their formal induction to our school. During this time, families are invited to a Parent Information Night to learn more about how we support students academically, socially, and emotionally as they settle into high school and how we work with families to support this process.
To build strong and supportive relationships from the start of their high school experience, we have structured Year 7 teaching so that:
- Students will meet their House Group teacher who will support them throughout their six years of their high school
- Each student’s Mathematics teacher also teaches them Science, and
- Their English teacher also teaches them Humanities and Social Sciences (HASS).
This Middle Years structure helps students make a smooth academic transition while fostering firm, trusting relationships with a smaller number of key teachers.
Before students start, we also meet with every Year 6 teacher from our partner primary schools. This ensures we have important background information to support each student’s learning, wellbeing, and individual needs right from the beginning.
The transition journey continues into Term 1 with:
Year 7 Camp: Early in Term 1, students attend camp, where they participate in activities that strengthen friendships, build resilience, and develop a strong sense of belonging to Woodville High School.
Woodville Week: In Week 1, Year 7 students take part in a program designed to help them learn school routines, understand the school’s values, systems, and expectations, and feel confident navigating the high school environment.
Special Interest Music Centre
Students interested in joining our renowned Special Interest Music Centre, are required to complete a separate application and audition process to secure a place in this specialist program.
Transition to the Senior Years
The transition from Middle to Senior Years at Woodville High School marks an important milestone in our students’ academic journey.
Through our focus on deep, authentic learning, we prepare students during their Middle Years for the rigours of the Senior Years and the SACE. We work to build each student’s confidence and expertise across their subjects, so they are ready to meet the challenges of their senior studies.
At the end of Year 9, we celebrate this pivotal transition with a formal graduation ceremony. This event is a proud moment where we recognise students’ successes and achievements in the Middle Years and mark the beginning of their Senior School journey. It’s a time for students to reflect on their growth, celebrate their accomplishments, and look forward to the opportunities ahead in their Senior Years.
