Buddies

The Buddy System is a program where Prep students meet regularly with their Grade 5 buddies and participate in cooperative learning activities. Students are allocated a buddy early in Term 1.

The program aims to:

• Develop positive relationships between younger and older students in our school.

• Provide Prep students with a supportive Grade 5 buddy for the year.

• Involve students in activities that promote cooperation, sharing, and the exploration of themes being studied by either the Grade 5 or Prep cohort.

The Buddy Program helps Prep students to:

• Feel safe and build their confidence.

• Become familiar with the school grounds and understand which areas are out of bounds. During the first few weeks, Grade 5 buddies guide their Prep buddies around the school during recess and lunch.

• Establish friendships and build positive relationships with others.

During the first few weeks of school, Grade 5 students and their Prep buddies eat snacks and lunch together. They play together outside, and the Grade 5 buddies ensure the Preps can find their way back to their classrooms when the bell rings.

After Term 1, Grade 5 buddies show their Prep buddies where they like to play, so they can easily find them if needed. Grade 5 students encourage their Prep buddies to play with other Preps and help redirect them if they are unable to find someone to play with.