Preschool students from Edgeworth Public were given a taste of “big-school” life at one of the most colourful events on the annual calendar.
The youngsters joined more than 700 pupils and staff for this year’s Book Week parade.
The free-to-attend preschool, currently hosting 40 children, shares grounds with Edgeworth Public School, providing the perfect platform for the keen leaners to transition into the next chapter of their educational journey.
Relieving principal Rebecca Baird said Book Week readied the preschoolers to face the upcoming shift to Kindergarten.
“We find it to be a valuable thing to make those students feel part of our whole school community and prepares them for what’s to come,” she explained.
Staged in schools across New South Wales, Book Week aims to foster a love of reading, literature and storytelling.
This year’s theme, Reading is Magic, is being showcased through classroom activities, competitions and the much-anticipated schoolbook parade.
However, it’s not just the kids who look forward to the day.
“Usually, we’ll welcome 300-to-500 visitors, from parents to carers, to it,” Ms Baird said.
“So, it’s a real celebration of not only books and a love of learning but an opportunity to bring in the community as well.”
Whether it’s Harry Potter, Ghostbusters, fairies or Bluey, the event allows students to dress as their favourite fictional characters.
“We usually have a few pupils who are withdrawn, but because everyone is dressing up, they get involved and come out of their shell.”
Preschool to Year 2 deputy principal Kadi Carr added the staff rocked out their best costumes, too.
“The children realise everyone gets very involved… and it’s felt nicely within our community.
“They love the fact every single staff member has some form of outfit on.
“The parents really get into it as well. There is barely a child here that hasn’t turned up with some form of costume today.”
Students and families also have the chance to purchase books via a distribution company to raise money for the school library.
Ms Baird said despite the uptick in device use for the pupils, an unwavering love for physical literature was still prevalent.
“Although there is the digital stuff, we really do value those books and giving the kids the access to those resources,” she added.
“The kids can use their imagination and live in different worlds through literature, building that love of learning and reading.”
It’s a sentiment shared by preschool assistant principal Clair Callinan.
“By celebrating books and reading, Book Week also instils a lifelong habit of reading, which is linked to academic success and a deeper understanding of the world,” she said.
“It encourages children to explore different genres, discover new authors and engage with stories and their imagination.
“Additionally, it helps learners to develop literacy skills, promotes critical thinking and enhances creativity.”
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