The move from primary to secondary school is an exciting time for students. At Siena College, our new Year 7s are warmly welcomed to the next stage of their education and our transition program ensures that students have many opportunities to forge friendships and develop a sense of belonging to the Siena community.

The transition commences with members of the Wellbeing Team visiting all incoming students at their primary school in their Grade 6 year. Students also attend an Orientation Day at Siena College in November and parents and students are invited to attend a Transition Information Evening.

At the start of the school year, our new Year 7s commence their secondary education with a Transition Day where they and the Year 12 students are the only students on campus. This time allows students not only to get to know each other, but also gives them the opportunity to familiarise themselves with the campus and their cohort within the supportive presence of the Year 12 students. This Transition Day also allows students to get to know the other Years 7s in their House Group, and learn about lockers, timetables and participating in House activities.

Each Year 7 student receives a letter from their Year 12 Buddy, who is in their House. During their orientation, they meet their Year 12 Buddies with whom they will participate in several fun activities throughout the year.

One of the biggest differences between primary school and secondary school is the timetable. At Siena College, we have a six-period day that operates on a ten-day cycle - which means that Week A classes are different to Week B classes. You can view an example of a Year 7 timetable below: