Supporting new joiners with the Wandsworth Prep Buddy System

Central to our ethos at Wandsworth Prep, is our belief that a happy child is a learning child. We also recognise that transition to a new school can be a challenge, both academically and socially and therefore place great emphasis on ensuring that any newcomer to our school community soon feels secure in our environment. Our buddy system is designed to ensure that children new to the school are fully supported through their early days.

Each new child is assigned a buddy in their class alongside whom they can work in class and in the playground. Our buddy system helps children to feel valued and supported and, at the same time, encourages understanding and creates a caring ethos in the school.

Indy, who recently joined our Reception class said: "I like everything about my new school. All my friends and teachers are nice. I love building in the construction area and going to Forest School."

In Year 4, Clo, who also joined us at the start of term, said: "Wandsworth is a wonderful school. I have enjoyed all the fun tasks and have loads of nice friends!' and Aimi, who joined us from Japan, said: "I am very happy at my new school. I like Swimming, English, Maths, Project and playing outside."