Grade 6 students from the six primary schools on the island took part in a familiarization meet of games, fun and conversation at the Ronald Webster Park on Friday morning last.
The purpose of the gathering was to facilitate the ease of social interaction among the students when they enter the Albena Lake Hodge Comprehensive School (ALCHS) next September. Basically, Transition Day is a means of helping the children to foster meaningful bonds and friendships.
Ms. Vivienne Fleming is the Guidance Counselor for the Valley Primary School. The Anguillian spoke with her regarding Friday morning’s event. When asked to give a synopsis of the rationale for this day, she said: “This is a grade 6 activity that has been happening for the past eight years. It is geared towards the students — building bonds before entering Campus B.
“So far, we have been doing only one such activity each year. But, with evaluation and feedback from the children, we decided to run this activity at least twice per year — once in the first term and again in the third term in June, after their exams.”
In expanding on the reason for Transition Day, Ms. Fleming noted: “The meet last Friday highlighted sporting events. The one to be held in June will focus more on preparing the students for High School by disseminating information on topics dealing with etiquette relating to young men and young women. At that time they will be encouraged by a motivational speaker. We usually present a session on peer pressure, but this year we will focus mainly on the hazards of bullying and how they should steer clear of hostile practices.”
Mrs. Fleming wishes to thank her counterpart Guidance Counselors, Ms. Chanicia Buchanan and Ms. Janelle Lake, for the work they have been doing, along with her, in coordinating these activities.