Supporting Students Through Confident and Connected School Transitions
Supporting Every Step of the Journey
At Dulwich, we understand that each stage of a child’s educational journey brings excitement, curiosity and, at times, uncertainty. That’s why our transition pathways–from DUCKS to Junior School and from Junior School to Senior School–are carefully designed to help every child feel confident, supported and ready for what comes next.
DUCKS to Junior School
As part of our Year 2 transition programme, we’ve created a thoughtful sequence of experiences that build resilience, nurture meaningful connections and support a smooth, positive move into Junior School life. During the Trinity Term, children begin familiarising themselves with their new environment by attending assemblies in The Alleyn Theatre, where they experience key routines and traditions. They meet the Head of Year 3 during our Learning Bug assembly, enjoy storytime sessions with current Year 3 teachers and explore new responsibilities at the Junior School Leadership Fair.
To strengthen relationships and ease anxieties, our Junior School Leadership Team, including Mr Bevington, spend time with the children during playtimes, lunchtimes and classroom visits. Shared Golden Time sessions, class visits with Year 3 peers and opportunities to celebrate learning together help children build early friendships and practise collaboration. They also tour the school, enjoy picnic snacks and experience the Junior School library with Ms Shea. The journey culminates on ‘Move Up Day’, when the children spend time in their future Year 3 classrooms—helping them feel excited, connected and ready for the next step.
Junior School to Senior School
Our commitment to thoughtful transition continues as students prepare to move from the Junior School into Senior School. We recognise that change can feel big, which is why we devote significant planning, care and communication to helping every child feel comfortable and confident.
The process begins with a Transition Assembly for Years 2-6, where we outline timelines, explain why and when classes are mixed, and invite students to list friends they would like to be placed with. Alumni video messages from around the world offer reassurance–whether students are moving up within the College or preparing to join a new school.
A rich programme of transition activities then helps students feel curious and connected. Year 6 visit the Senior School, while younger students explore key spaces and events: visiting the Junior School library, buddying up with Year 3 during breaktimes, attending assemblies such as the Hari Raya celebration and discovering leadership opportunities at the Leadership Fair.
Parents also play an important role. Our ‘Welcome to Junior School’ event, led by Head Nicholas Bevington and Year 3 leaders, offers valuable insight into life ahead. Tours led by Year 6 student guides showcase favourite learning and community spaces—from the amphitheatre to specialist classrooms.
Behind the scenes, our AEN team and staff across both schools collaborate through tailored visits and detailed handover meetings throughout June, ensuring that crucial knowledge and support follow each child into their new environment.
The process comes to life on 17 June during our Changeover morning, when students from Years 2 to 5 visit their new classrooms, meet their new teachers (where possible) and begin forming their new class communities. For those leaving Dulwich, we offer dedicated sessions focused on reflecting, staying connected and preparing for exciting future adventures.
Across all stages, one principle guides us: with thoughtful support, every transition becomes an opportunity for growth. By nurturing confidence, connection and curiosity, we ensure every child steps into their next chapter feeling ready for the journey ahead.