Transition to Primary School

We aimed to achieve several key outcomes - our main objective (MO) was to transform the transition from pre- to primary school into a creative and positive experience for children, replacing the s...

We aimed to achieve several key outcomes - our main objective (MO) was to transform the transition from pre- to primary school into a creative and positive experience for children, replacing the stress often associated with this phase. By doing so we sought to foster happy, confident, and collaborative children who were better prepared to navigate their new educational environment. To accomplish this, we focused on several specific objectives: SO1. Supporting children's readiness: We aimed to equip children with the necessary skills to face the challenges of transitioning to primary school. SO2. Bridging the gap between pre- and primary school: We intended to create continuity between these two educational stages by developing an innovative transitional curriculum. SO3. Involving the entire school community: We aimed to engage all members of the pre-school and primary school communities, including parents, to build a supportive environment for children. SO4. Leveraging digital tools for cooperation: We sought to utilize digital platforms to foster cooperation among pre-primary and primary staff and parents. Ultimately, we aimed to fill this gap and equip children with essential competences to thrive in their transition.

In the UPSTAIRS project, we implemented several key activities aligned with specific objectives to support children’s smooth transition from pre-school to primary school. WP1: Project Management ensured the coordinated execution of all tasks and effective resource management to keep the project on track. (MO) WP2: Preparing the Soil for Smooth Transition focused on research and preparation, gathering insights to develop a framework that promoted children’s emotional well-being, independence, and resilience for primary school readiness. (SO2) WP3: Building the Framework for Continuity developed an innovative transitional curriculum, bridging the gap between pre-school and primary school through pedagogical continuity and collaboration between educators. (SO1, SO2) WP4: Digital Common Space created a platform for parents, early childhood educators, and primary school teachers to collaborate, providing resources to support children, especially those from disadvantaged backgrounds. (SO4) WP5: Sustainability and Impact focused on ensuring the long-term use and impact of project outcomes, engaging policymakers, and developing strategies for scaling the tools and methodologies. (SO3)

The concrete outputs and results of the UPSTAIRS project were significant in achieving the project's objectives. We produced several key deliverables: Transition Readiness Framework: This included separate Guidelines and good practices, particularly focusing on the inclusion of disadvantaged children, to support emotional well-being and the development of adaptation and resilience skills for the transition to primary school. Transitional curriculum for ECEC: We developed an innovative curriculum designed to bridge the gap between pre- and primary school, fostering pedagogical continuity. UPSTAIRS digital space: This platform served as a collaborative space for educators and parents, housing a repository of resources, including activities and tips, while establishing a European community for ongoing collaboration. Training and workshops: We conducted 3 LTTAs, 8 workshops, and 7 pilot programs to validate and refine the results of the project. Dissemination: To maximize impact, we organized 7 multiplier events, 2 transnational conferences, and implemented social media campaigns to promote the project’s findings and tools. These outputs ensured both the immediate effectiveness of the project and its long-term sustainability.