Transition with Confidence – Start at Year 6

At Perth College we believe Year 6 is a pivotal year for young girls – it’s a time of growth, self-discovery, and stepping into leadership roles that shape their future.

Here is why starting in Year 6 can be such a rewarding experience.

In Year 6, your daughter will have the opportunity to take on formal leadership roles, including positions such as Student Representative Council (SRC), House Captains, and Fitness Captains. These roles help her develop strong leadership skills, build confidence, and positively influence her peers.

The Year 6 Canberra Tour is a highlight that offers girls a chance to gain greater independence and responsibility. As they explore Australia’s capital, they return with a newfound confidence, maturity, and self-reliance.

The Year 6 Camp at Forrest Edge is all about stepping out of comfort zones. With outdoor challenges designed to build resilience and teamwork, girls learn valuable life skills in a supportive and adventurous environment.

The Dream and Lead Conference, held in Term 1, is an exciting opportunity for all Year 6 girls to explore and develop their leadership potential. This conference fosters a sense of empowerment, encouraging the girls to envision themselves as future leaders and active participants in their communities.

Our Personal Inquiry program encourages girls to follow their own curiosity and passions, culminating in an Exhibition of Learning. This independent project allows your daughter to explore topics that excite her and present her findings to the school community, reinforcing critical thinking and communication skills.

Year 6 students have the chance to audition for lead roles in the Junior School Musical, with rehearsals taking place in Terms 2 and 3. These performances are a wonderful opportunity for girls to express their creativity and develop confidence in front of an audience. Additionally, our Speech and Drama Showcase allows students to hone their public speaking skills.

Through our SPARC program, Year 6 girls engage in Market Day, where they create and sell products. This hands-on experience introduces them to entrepreneurship, teamwork, and the practical application of business skills.

In Year 6, students embark on the Migration Inquiry, where they visit the Cultural Precinct to deepen their understanding of migration and cultural diversity in Australia. These enriching excursions bring classroom learning to life.

Year 6 girls also participate in the JIGSSA Winter Fixtures and Summer Games Day, promoting teamwork, fitness, and school spirit. These events allow your daughter to form connections with other schools and develop a love for sports and physical activity.

At the end of Year 6, we celebrate the students’ growth and achievements with a Graduation Breakfast, Excursion Day, and Graduation Assembly. The year concludes with the Exhibition of Learning, where students showcase their inquiry projects, reflecting on their journey and accomplishments.

By starting in Year 6, your daughter will have the opportunity to immerse herself in all of these exciting, growth-oriented experiences. It’s a year of discovery, leadership, and independence—setting a strong foundation for the rest of her school years and beyond.

How does starting in Year 6 help with transitioning to high school? 

Starting in Year 6 at Perth College provides a unique advantage when it comes to transitioning into Senior School. We understand that moving from Junior School to Year 7 is a significant step, and our Year 6 program is designed to ease this transition and help girls feel confident, familiar, and ready for the challenges ahead.

A Comprehensive Transition Program

Throughout the year, your daughter will participate in multiple transition activities designed to introduce her to high school life. Led by our Head of Inside Out, Sarah Borg, these sessions include discussions with key staff, such as those from the Health Centre and The Hub, providing an early understanding of the support structures available in Senior School.

Early Familiarity with Senior School Staff

Through specialist lessons, Year 6 girls are introduced to Senior School staff across various subjects. This gives them the opportunity to build relationships with their future teachers, making the transition smoother and less daunting when they enter Year 7.

Familiarity with the Senior School Campus

Year 6 students have the opportunity to experience lessons in spaces that they will use in Senior School, such as science labs, art studios, and sports facilities. This exposure helps them become comfortable navigating the larger campus and fosters a sense of belonging before they officially begin their Senior School journey.

Insights from Year 7 Kaya Captains

As part of our transition support, Year 6 students participate in a conference panel with the Year 7 Kaya Captains. This gives them a chance to hear firsthand from students who have recently made the leap to Senior School, learning about their experiences and tips for success.

Orientation Day

Our Orientation Day is a key event that allows Year 6 students to spend time in Senior School classrooms, meet new teachers, and get a feel for what their day-to-day life will be like in Year 7. This day is a great way to reduce any nerves and ensure a seamless transition when the time comes.

Invitations to Senior School Events

Year 6 students are regularly invited to attend Senior School events, including assemblies, sporting events, and cultural activities. These invitations help them feel integrated into the Senior School community and excited about the opportunities that await them.

Cohort Cohesion Before Senior School

One of the greatest benefits of starting in Year 6 is that your daughter will spend a full year with her cohort before moving into Senior School. By the time she begins Year 7, she will already have strong friendships and a sense of camaraderie with many of the students she’ll be with in the Senior School, making the transition socially smoother and more enjoyable.

By starting in Year 6, your daughter gains all of the support, familiarity, and confidence she needs to excel when she enters Senior School. With plenty of opportunities to get to know the people, places, and systems that will shape her high school experience, she’ll be fully prepared to embrace the next exciting chapter of her education. 

If you have any questions or would like more information about our Year 6 program and how it supports the transition to Senior School, contact our Enrolments team on (08) 9471 2104 or [email protected] to arrange a meeting at your convenience.  

We look forward to welcoming your daughter into the Perth College community! 


We inspire joy in learning every day. Our academic and co-curricular programs are thoughtfully designed to empower girls, fostering confidence, determination, and a love for learning in a supportive environment. Ready to learn more?