Helping little learners settle into school

St Bernard pre prep student Archer

ST BERNARD State School will continue its efforts to support incoming Prep students with a five-week Term Four Pre Prep Program starting Thursday, October 16.

Held weekly on Thursday mornings from 9.30am to 11.am, the program is designed to help children starting school in 2026 build confidence and become familiar with the school environment.

Prep teacher and Pre Prep Coordinator Rebecca Martin said the sessions are about making the transition to school as smooth and positive as possible.

“Our Pre Prep Program is all about helping children feel happy, confident, and excited about starting school,” Ms Martin said.

“We keep it playful and fun, so children build a sense of belonging while also learning what ‘big school’ is all about. By the time Prep starts, they’re already familiar with the space, the people, and what to expect.”

Children will take part in a mix of singing, stories, craft, movement, and school exploration, including visits to The Gully, Yathgalen (the rainforest walk), and the school library.

“They’ll even meet some of our specialist teachers, such as our wonderful Japanese Sensei,” Ms Martin said.

“We gently introduce early literacy and numeracy skills in a supportive way, all while helping children build friendships and feel confident.”

Ms Martin said the program is also valuable for families.

“It’s a fantastic opportunity for children to become familiar with the school environment while families build connections with our school community and the Prep team,” she said.

Spots are still available for the Term 4 sessions, which run weekly from October 16 to November 13. 

The next Parent Information Session for parents considering St Bernard SS is on August 27 at 5pm.

Contact the school for more information.

About Guy Hazlewood 140 Articles
Guy Hazlewood has journalism experience across the Scenic Rim and Logan, covering everything from community and lifestyle stories to sport - with a soft spot for rugby league. Passionate about connecting with locals and telling real stories, Guy prides himself on capturing the voices and moments often overlooked by larger media outlets.