Transition to Buxton Junior School
Although Buxton Infant School and Buxton Junior School are separate schools, each with their own identity, we work closely together to give children a positive and well-supported journey through their primary education. Most of our children move to Buxton Junior School at the end of Year 2, and our strong partnership helps children approach this next step with confidence and excitement.
When choosing a school for your child, we are always happy to welcome you for a visit and talk to you about our values, curriculum and approach to learning. You may also wish to visit Buxton Junior School to learn more about the opportunities available from Year 3 onwards. To arrange a visit, please contact Mrs Dowling and the Junior School team on 01298 22156. Representatives from Buxton Junior School also attend our autumn Open Evening, giving prospective families an early opportunity to meet members of both school communities.
Building relationships from Reception
Our transition work begins long before children reach Year 2. Reception children take part in Woodland Adventures and use Buxton Junior School’s Forest School area, supporting our commitment to outdoor learning and memorable experiences beyond the classroom.
Children also build relationships with older pupils through shared activities:
· Reception children connect with Year 3.
· Year 1 children visit Year 4 for a singing celebration.
· Year 2 children are linked with Year 5 buddies, who become familiar and friendly faces as the children prepare to move to the Junior School.
These experiences allow children to become familiar with the Junior School building, grounds, staff and pupils gradually, helping the move to feel like a natural next step.
Year 2 transition programme
During the summer term, Year 2 children take part in a carefully planned programme of visits and shared activities including a tour of Buxton Junior School with Year 5 buddies, Year 3 teachers visiting Buxton Infant School to teach the Year 2 children and an activity morning.
Where a child would benefit from additional transition support, we work with families to plan further visits and make suitable individual arrangements.
Ready for the next step
We work closely with colleagues at Buxton Junior School to share relevant information and support continuity between Key Stage 1 and Key Stage 2. By the time children leave us, we want them to feel proud of everything they have achieved and secure, confident and excited about the next stage of their educational journey.
