Starting school is an exciting time and an important milestone in your child’s life and maybe also your life – particularly if this is your first child to come to school.

 We look forward to working with you and your child to make the transition from preschool to school a positive experience. 

The staff at Matiere School welcome you, your family and your five year old, and recognise the importance of a smooth transition into school. 

At Matiere School we have an open door policy and see communication between home and school as an integral part of your child’s learning. If you have any questions, please come and see us so we can discuss these. 

If this is your first child at school often it is new for you as a parent as well as so much has changed perhaps since you were last a student. Some children are comfortable and gain confidence quickly while it is natural for some to take a little longer to settle into school life. 

We recognise that children bring many different skills and experiences to school with them so along with the literacy and numeracy skills that are focused on in the first year, we encourage the children to begin to develop the key competencies through our school programmes. These are the skills identified in the New Zealand Curriculum that they will need to be successful life-long learners. Thinking, Relating to others, Using language, symbols, and texts, Managing self, Participating and contributing 

NEW ENTRANTS

School visits are encouraged for pre-enrolled children so that the transition to school is a smooth one.  A birth certificate and immunisation certificate must be sighted on enrolment. New Entrants are well supported within our small junior class.

PARENTAL AND CAREGIVERS INVOLVEMENT

Parents are encouraged to feel comfortable and welcome at Matiere School and work in partnership with the school to achieve the best possible outcomes for the children.  Parents are able to help in classes and are invited to school regularly for special events to celebrate and share in the children’s learning.  The importance of parental support and involvement is vital in a school of this size. Parents are also willing helpers on school trips, camps and sports days, and their support is appreciated.  Our school Motto “Together We Learn -  Kia ako tahi tatou” refers not only to the children but also to the staff, parents, Board of Trustees and Community.  Our goal together is to support and enhance the education of the children of Matiere.