• Kylie Valentine, Ilan Katz
• Social Policy Research Centre

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Image: LizMarie / Flickr

02 June 2010This report outlines the evaluation framework for the Linking Schools and Early Years Project, which is designed to ensure that all children enter the formal education system ready to engage with the many opportunities offered by their new learning environment.

The project also aims to ensure that schools are prepared for children of all abilities and backgrounds when they first attend, and that families, services and communities are ready to support the development of children.

Specifically, the project’s goals are that:

1. Children and families make a smooth transition between early years services and schools 
2. Early years services and schools actively connect with families 
3. Schools are responsive to the individual learning needs of all children 

The project is operating in three Victorian communities; Corio/Norlane in the City of Greater Geelong, Footscray in the City of Maribyrnong and Hastings in Mornington Peninsula Shire. 

In each site the project is working with schools, early years services, families, local government and the community to develop new models of working collaboratively towards achieving the three project goals. 
Local partnership groups have been established to guide the project locally in each project site. In partnership with the project team, the partnership groups are responsible for conceptualising, developing and implementing a set of local strategies and activities based on the stated project goals.

Image: LizMarie / Flickr