Smoothing the Path: SISOG’s Red Thread Transitions
At the Swedish International School of Geneva (SISOG), we believe that education should be a seamless journey rather than a series of abrupt jumps. This philosophy is what we call our Red Thread: a strategic, school-wide approach that ensures a consistent pedagogical experience from ages 1 to 12.
A vital part of this Red Thread is our Adaptation Plan. Throughout the school year, we provide dedicated bridge experiences where students spend time in the next class level up. These trial mornings and visits are designed to help students feel secure, confident, and excited about their future at SISOG.
How Our Adaptation Process Works
Our transition program is carefully tailored to each developmental stage, ensuring every child feels supported as they prepare for their next big step.
Preschool to Lower Primary (1P & 2P) : In April, Lower Primary teachers visit the Nobel and Svea preschool classes to join in on free play and circle time. By May, students heading to Lower Primary visit the Vänern and Gotland classes to become familiar with the new space, activities, and classmates.
Lower Primary to Middle Primary (3P & 4P) : Future Stockholm and Kebnekaise students spend mornings immersed in the Middle Primary environment. They experience both English/Swedish days and French days, helping them visualize themselves in this more advanced setting.
Middle Primary to Upper Primary (5P-8P) : For our 4P students, we host Trial Mornings as early as January. Students spend a full morning experiencing the academic and social life of Upper Primary, including recess and subject-specific lessons in French and English.
Why the Red Thread Matters
Moving to a new class can be a daunting experience for any child. By weaving this Red Thread through our curriculum, we provide:
A Safe and Secure Environment: Meeting new teachers in their current, familiar classroom first helps build trust.
Social Continuity: Students get the opportunity to start getting familiar with their future classmates and the older students early on.
Academic Confidence: Familiarity with the physical space and the types of activities they will encounter reduces anxiety and fosters a love of learning.
Rooted in Swedish Values
This process reflects our core Swedish pedagogical values of empathy and community. We view our school as a social and cultural meeting place where care, socialization, and learning form a coherent whole. By supporting these transitions so closely, we ensure every child has the opportunity to develop in accordance with their full potential.
Stay tuned for more updates on how we are nurturing the next generation of independent, creative, and happy learners!
