Being Ready & Transition to School
"School readiness is a measure of the knowledge, skills and behaviours that enable children to participate and succeed in school."
At HazelGrove, being “ready” goes far beyond academic basics. While name recognition, early numeracy and literacy are important, we believe that true readiness comes from the holistic development of the whole child. Emotional regulation, social confidence, the ability to build and maintain friendships, communicate effectively, ask questions, follow instructions – and most importantly, a genuine love for learning – are at the heart of our approach.
Key Elements of Being Ready & Transition to School Program
Cultivating Curiosity and a Growth Mindset
Changing our beliefs can have a powerful impact. The growth mindset creates a powerful passion for learning. “Why waste time proving over and over how great you are,” Dweck writes, “when you could be getting better?”
A growth mindset creates a safe space for children to ask questions, express their thoughts, and nurture their natural inquisitiveness.
We foster a growth mindset that encourages children to ask questions, explore ideas, and share their thinking in a safe, supportive environment. Curiosity is the engine of learning – it helps children become motivated, engaged, and resilient learners. Through open-ended inquiry and meaningful conversations, we nurture confident thinkers who embrace challenges and view mistakes as valuable steps in the learning journey.
The Project Approach to Learning
Our curriculum is deeply rooted in the Project Approach, where projects evolve from children’s interests or educators’ intentional provocations. These projects integrate all learning areas – Literacy, Numeracy, Science, The Arts, Technology, Physical Development, and Wellbeing – ensuring children are exposed to the foundational skills they need for school and beyond.
Children develop important 21st-century capabilities: observing, questioning, hypothesising, testing ideas, documenting their thinking in diverse ways, and reflecting critically on their learning. This active, hands-on approach allows children to become co-constructors of knowledge and confident contributors to their world.
Cultural Competence
In a rich, multicultural society like ours, cultural competence is vital. We guide children to recognise, respect and celebrate diversity – seeing it as a strength that enriches our community.
By learning from one another and embracing different ways of being, children build empathy, inclusion, and a deep appreciation for the world’s cultural tapestry. These foundations are essential for shaping a more respectful and inclusive future.
Leadership Opportunities
Children have the right to say what they think should happen when adults are making decisions that affect them and to have their opinions taken into account.
Children in our older rooms, participate in Children’s Committees where meaningful topics – from natural disasters to social justice – are brought forward, often by the children themselves.
We don’t shy away from real-world issues; instead, we create space for open, thoughtful discussions. These moments foster agency, critical thinking, and social responsibility – key traits of future leaders.
Ready for School, Ready for Life
Our learner-centred philosophy is about more than being “school ready” – it’s about preparing children for life.
Through play, inquiry, and connection, we create a learning environment where children grow into creative thinkers, problem-solvers and compassionate citizens. They don’t just adapt to school – they thrive, lead, and dream big.
Get In Touch
For more information about our unique transition to school program, call us at 02 9639 1439 or send your enquiry here.