Transition Program
(6-7)

Transition to CSC

Castlemaine Secondary College works closely with primary schools across the Mount Alexander Shire to provide Grade 5 and Grade 6 students with multiple opportunities to experience the atmosphere, expectations and learning opportunities available at CSC.

Our Transition Team has collaboratively developed a range of tools to gather important information about each new student. This information helps us to:

• Form cohesive, balanced and challenging mixed Year 7 class groups
• Support a smooth and confident start to secondary school
• Enable staff to quickly get to know each student as an individual
• Identify and provide additional support where required

A Fresh Start in Year 7: Moving Beyond BYOD

As part of our commitment to supporting student wellbeing, learning and connection, in 2026 CSC has phased out the Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) program for Year 7 students. We also plan to extend this to Year 8 & 9 in 2027. 

We recognise that the transition to secondary school is a significant developmental stage. By reducing reliance on personal devices in Year 7, we are creating a learning environment that prioritises focus, relationships and healthy habits.

Benefits for Students

Stronger Social Connections
Without the constant presence of personal devices, students are encouraged to engage more with one another—building friendships, developing communication skills, and feeling a stronger sense of belonging within their new school community.

Opportunities to Disconnect
Year 7 students benefit from time away from screens during the school day. This supports improved wellbeing, reduces digital distraction, and allows students to be more present in their learning and interactions.

Improved Learning Habits
A reduced reliance on devices helps students to:

• Develop organisation and time-management skills
• Strengthen handwriting and note-taking abilities
• Build concentration and persistence in learning tasks
• Engage more deeply in classroom discussions and activities

A More Supported Transition
Starting secondary school without the added responsibility of managing a personal device allows students to focus on adjusting to new routines, subjects and expectations with confidence.

CSC continues to use appropriate school-based technology in a purposeful and structured way, ensuring students develop digital skills while maintaining a balanced approach to learning.

Transition Activities

The CSC Transition Program includes a number of key events designed to support both students and families:

• Primary School Visits: The CSC Transitions Coordinator visits local primary schools to speak with students, explain the transition process, and answer questions.
• Open Evening: Families and students are invited to attend our Open Evening in early May to see CSC in action, meet staff, and explore our facilities.
• Experience and Orientation Days: Students participate in two transition days at CSC, allowing them to experience classes, meet teachers and peers, and become familiar with the school environment.
• Parent Information Evening: Families are invited to attend an information session to learn more about the school, expectations, and how to support their child’s transition.
• Enrolment Information: All enrolment documentation is distributed to families as part of the Transition Program.

Making the Leap Program

CSC recognises that some students benefit from additional opportunities to build confidence before starting secondary school. Our Making the Leap program provides extra transition days for selected students who may feel anxious or would benefit from further familiarisation.

These small-group sessions allow students to:

• Become more familiar with the school environment
• Build relationships with key staff and other students
• Develop confidence and independence
• Learn important organisational and wellbeing skills

Making the Leap helps ensure every student feels supported, comfortable and ready to begin their secondary school journey.

Year 7 Orientation Day

Orientation Day is an exciting and important milestone. Held in Term 4, this day allows students to experience a typical day at CSC before the school year begins.

On Orientation Day, students will:

• Meet their teachers and classmates
• Participate in classroom and team-building activities
• Learn about their timetable and subjects
• Become familiar with key areas of the school
• Begin building connections and a sense of belonging

This day plays an important role in ensuring students feel confident, prepared and excited about starting Year 7.

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Supporting Every Student

At CSC, we are committed to making the transition from primary school to secondary school a positive, supportive and successful experience for every student and their family. Our comprehensive Transition Program ensures students feel known, supported and ready to thrive from their very first day.