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Transition & Student Life Integration at Cornerstone International School

Transitioning into a new school environment is a meaningful milestone for every learner, and at Cornerstone International School, we aim to make this journey smooth, encouraging, and deeply supportive. We understand that settling into a new academic and social setting can be both exciting and challenging.

 

For this reason, our transition framework ensures that every student — whether entering Nursery, Primary, or Secondary — receives the guidance, structure, and care required to thrive.

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Our goal is to foster a learning community where students feel seen, supported, and empowered to express themselves confidently. From the moment they join us, learners are welcomed into a nurturing environment grounded in respect, collaboration, discovery, and personal growth.

"The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.”

Lao Tzu

Initial Welcome & Orientation

Gospel Choir
Girl Peeking Over Basket

Upon joining Cornerstone International School, all students and their parents/guardians are invited to participate in our formal orientation programme that provides:

  • Warm reception and introduction to our academic leadership, teaching team, and pastoral staff.

  • Guided tour of the school environment, including classrooms, laboratories, libraries, sports facilities, creative spaces, dining areas, and relaxation zones.

  • Introduction to school culture, values, learning ethos, and expectations.

  • Overview of safeguarding, welfare, and daily conduct procedures, including access to medical support, emotional care, and behavioural policies.

  • Information pack which includes school guidelines, timetable, uniform requirements, academic calendar, transportation information, and key contacts.

Throughout this process, students are gently guided to understand the structure of their new academic community, encouraging confidence and reducing anxiety.

Pastoral Care & Wellbeing Support

We prioritise the emotional and social wellbeing of every learner. Our pastoral system ensures that each child has direct access to compassionate adult support.

  • Every learner is assigned a dedicated tutor responsible for academic and personal development.

  • The Pastoral and Guidance Team monitors students’ well-being and provides support with school adjustment, friendship development, and emotional needs.

  • A qualified school nurse and healthcare liaison remain on site during school hours to provide first aid and support for medical needs.

  • We maintain strong links with our partner medical facility for emergencies.

  • Students experiencing adjustment challenges may also receive additional mentoring or referral to external support services when appropriate.

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Our approach ensures learners feel encouraged, heard, and secure throughout their time with us.

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Academic Transition & Classroom Integration

We recognize that students come from diverse academic backgrounds. To support a successful transition:

  • Students undergo a baseline academic assessment to determine strengths, learning needs, and potential areas requiring support.

  • Teaching staff analyze results to provide tailored assistance, including differentiated instruction, enrichment, and one-on-one guidance.

  • Class teachers provide structured orientation to classroom routines, expectations, and learning tools.

  • Students new to international or blended curriculum formats receive additional guidance through learning workshops.

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Teachers collaborate closely with parents to ensure harmonious academic adjustment and sustained progress.

 

Social Adjustment & Community Building

Cornerstone intentionally cultivates a warm, inclusive community where students build friendships naturally and respectfully.​

  • Learners are guided through structured peer integration, encouraging healthy social interactions.

  • New students may be paired with peer buddies who help them navigate school-life, ask questions, and feel welcomed.

  • Clubs, group projects, and house activities help new learners connect with others who share similar interests.

  • Our community spirit fosters empathy, inclusivity, and respect.

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School Routines & Daily Life Support

 

Timetable & Scheduling

Students receive a clear timetable outlining class periods, breaks, co-curricular activities, and study times.

 

School Uniform

Students receive full guidance on approved uniforms and sportswear, including approved colours, styling, and sourcing.

 

Meals & Breaks

Students have access to hygienic dining facilities, with adults on duty during breaks to ensure safety and support.

 

Transportation

Safe and reliable transportation services follow scheduled routes to and from school.

 

Safeguarding & Student Safety

 

The safety and well-being of every child is a central responsibility. Our safeguarding policy ensures:

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  • All staff are trained and certified in safeguarding and child protection.

  • Close partnership with a local medical facility for emergency response.

  • Ongoing review of safety protocols and documentation.

  • Secure campus with regulated visitor access.

 

Parents are encouraged to report concerns regarding well-being or safety.

 

Co‑Curricular Activities

 

To support holistic development:

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  • Students participate in co‑curricular clubs including arts, sports, ICT, sciences, music, and debating.

  • Activities support character building, creativity, teamwork, and leadership.

  • New learners are guided to explore and select activities that align with their interests.

 

Parent Communication & Collaboration

 

We maintain transparent and consistent communication channels with parents through:

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  • Regular meetings and reporting sessions.

  • School-parent digital platforms.

  • Email and scheduled consultations.

  • Open communication with class tutors and counsellors.

 

Parents are essential partners in supporting students’ transition and growth.

 

Continuous Progress Monitoring

 

Throughout a student’s early period in school, we:

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  • Track academic performance and engagement.

  • Monitor emotional and social adjustment.

  • Provide structured tutoring and mentoring when needed.

  • Communicate progress updates to parents.

 

This ensures early support and sustained development.

Download the New Intake Parent & Carer Handbook

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