At the beginning of the term, we held tours for our families and students who will be joining us in 2021. This was a fantastic opportunity as staff members walked with small groups and could answer all questions they had about Transition and Balaklava High School. After the tours, we held a Middle School Consultation Evening where we asked and discussed the following questions. 

1. What was your experience like in Middle School? What would you like to see stay the same and what would you like to be different?
2. What do you think will be the biggest challenge for your child moving into Middle School? What will help your child succeed?
3. How can we make the transition process from primary to high school more effective for your child?
4. How would you like to be informed and engaged with your child’s learning?
5. What would make this school a more inviting and comfortable place for you and your child?
6. How else can Balaklava High School best support your child for their future?

All parent/caregiver and student feedback was collated and distributed to all staff and leadership within the High School. This feedback was extremely useful and has been used in planning for future curriculum, timetabling, the structure of our Middle School and Transition Program in 2021 and beyond and the initiation of extra transition lessons this term.

We would like to thank everyone who attended and provided feedback. Parent/Caregiver engagement only helps continue to build positive relationships between families and schools. Research clearly shows that high parent/caregiver engagement leads to higher academic success and creates a strong sense of community and connection. If you were unable to attend the evening, we would be more than happy to hear your thoughts about how we can continue to improve our Middle School, send your responses to michelle.pudney209@schools.sa.edu.au.

Michelle Pudney

Middle School Assistant Principal