At the start of the school year, every Foundation student is matched with a Grade 6 Peer Support Buddy. Together, they enjoy a weekly session filled with engaging, hands-on activities such as:

Easter Egg Hunt
Teddy Bears Picnic
Art and Craft
Computers
Book Making

These sessions are more than just fun — they are designed to build connection, confidence, and emotional safety.

Why Peer Support Buddies Matter

Research consistently shows that strong relationships are one of the most powerful protective factors for young children starting school. Having an older peer to look up to can reduce anxiety, increase a sense of belonging, and smooth the transition into formal schooling. Children are far more likely to thrive academically and socially when they feel secure, seen, and supported.

Benefits for Foundation Students

Our Peer Support Buddies play a vital role during those important early weeks. They meet their buddy before recess and lunch, helping them navigate school routines such as:

• Finding someone to play with

• Choosing food and organising belongings

• Wearing their hat to stay “Sunsmart”

• Locating toilets

• Identifying safe play areas

• Understanding classroom and playground expectations

This kind of guided support builds independence in a gentle, developmentally appropriate way. Studies in early childhood transition programs show that children with structured peer support demonstrate increased confidence, improved emotional regulation, and stronger early friendships — all of which contribute to smoother learning experiences throughout the year.

Benefits for Grade 6 Students

The program also offers significant advantages for our Grade 6 leaders. Acting as a buddy builds empathy, responsibility, communication skills, and a strong sense of purpose. Research on peer leadership programs shows that older students who mentor younger peers often display increased resilience, improved teamwork, and a deeper connection to their school community. It is also a powerful way for them to model kindness, belonging, and positive behaviour.

A Stronger School Community

When Foundation and Grade 6 students build relationships, it strengthens the whole school culture. Younger children feel safe, older students feel empowered, and the wider school community benefits from a culture of care, leadership, and respect. This structure aligns with the evidence behind whole-school wellbeing models, which show that cross-age relationships significantly increase supportive school climates.