Repeating

Repeating a child is a very sensitive issue. A recommendation to repeat a grade level is always given in the best interests of the individual child.

The best time to repeat a child is from 3-year-old Preschool to Year 1. From Year 2 onwards, issues regarding the individual's self-esteem make it more difficult for the child to make a smooth transition into a new peer group.

The classroom teacher is the best judge of a child's need to repeat. If the classroom teacher suggests that a child needs to repeat the advice is given as a professional opinion in the best interests of the child.

Many parents feel a certain stigma when it comes to making the decision to repeat their son or daughter. While this may be a strong emotion, it should be cast aside when considering what is best for the child's long-term success at school. No harm can come from repeating a grade but there is a greater long-term risk if the child in question is always 'catching up' with his/her peers (unless the child has a specific learning difficulty which will not be addressed by the child repeating). The impact may not even be immediately apparent. Issues surrounding self-esteem, age, personal maturity and social maturity may not become apparent until much later.

When given advice by the school's staff please consider it very carefully. Talk it over with the classroom teacher, the Chaplain of Pastoral Care and the Head of Junior School before making a final decision.