Positioning Research, Policy, and Practice on Transition to Elementary School

• In Event: Diverse Settings and International Perspectives in Early Childhood Education

Abstract

This presentation reports on the reconceptualisation of transition to elementary school in the light of social justice, human rights (including children’s rights), educational reform and ethical agendas as well as the established impact of a positive transition to school on children’s ongoing learning, development and wellbeing. It considers the development of a position statement on transition to school by 14 early childhood researchers from seven countries (Australia, USA, New Zealand, Iceland, UK, Sweden, Hong Kong). The position statement is built around opportunities, aspirations, expectations and entitlements for children, families, educators, communities, and educational settings and systems. It has clear international relevance to the development of successful transition to school policies and practices and the potential to inform international research directions.

Authors

• Sue Dockett, Charles Sturt University

• Bob Perry, Charles Sturt University