A head start on what's ahead.
The best of Junior School, with a glimpse of what's next.
At ELTHAM, Year 5 students don't have to wait until Senior School to experience more of the College.
Through specialist classes including Science, Multimedia and Library, students learn in Senior School facilities with Senior School teachers. They're introduced to new environments, new ways of learning and a broader range of opportunities, while still enjoying the familiarity and support of Junior School.
It's a chance to explore more, build connections and become comfortable in the wider College community — well before the transition to Year 7.
Stepping into more
Explore Year 5 LearningTheir world begins to get bigger.
In Year 5, students begin experiencing more of what lies ahead, with the familiarity and support of Junior School around them.
Learning and exploration
Learning and exploration
Strong foundations in core learning, with room to explore new subjects, ideas and ways of thinking.
Broader experiences and opportunities
Broader experiences and opportunities
Year 5 opens the door to broader learning experiences, new interests and opportunities to explore more of what ELTHAM has to offer.
Relationships and belonging
Relationships and belonging
Strong connections with teachers and friends within a supportive Junior School community, where every student is known.
Growing confidence and independence
Growing confidence and independence
Age-appropriate opportunities to take responsibility and make decisions, with guidance close by as independence grows.
Known, supported and connected
“"Year 5 is where we see students really start to find their feet. They’re ready to take on more, discover what they’re capable of and grow in confidence, knowing they have the support and encouragement to give things a go.””
“"One of the wonderful things about Year 5 is seeing students discover what they're capable of. Through specialist learning experiences like Music, they develop new skills, build confidence and explore interests they might never have discovered."”
Why Year 5?
Why wait until Year 7?
Year 5 offers students something special: the opportunity to experience more of what lies ahead, while still benefiting from the care and support of Junior School.
From specialist classes taught by Senior School teachers to learning in Senior School facilities, students begin experiencing the broader College well before Year 7. Along the way, they build friendships, establish relationships and become more familiar with their surroundings.
Meet Bansi and Zoe Bell, who share their experience of joining ELTHAM and settling into the College.
Play the video below
Ready for what comes next
Building on what they’ve already experienced.
For students who join ELTHAM in Year 5, the transition to Senior School begins long before their first day of Year 7.
By the time they reach Year 7, they’re already familiar with the wider campus, have established friendships and relationships across the College, and feel more confident navigating their environment.
Rather than starting somewhere completely new, they’re taking the next step in a journey that’s already underway.
Year 5 through their eyes
““In Year 5, we get to try lots of different things, meet new teachers and learn in different classrooms. I love having so many opportunities to explore new subjects. It makes me feel more confident about moving into Senior School.””
““There’s always something new to try at ELTHAM. The teachers really care about you, everyone is so supportive, and you get to discover things you didn’t even know you’d love. It’s your time to shine!””
Frequently asked questions
Why choose Year 5 at ELTHAM rather than wait until Year 7?
Joining ELTHAM in Year 5 gives students the opportunity to experience more of what the College has to offer while continuing to benefit from the care, structure and support of Junior School.
What makes learning in Year 5 at ELTHAM different?
Year 5 at ELTHAM combines strong learning foundations with opportunities to explore, discover and take on new challenges.
Students are encouraged to think independently, follow their curiosity and develop their strengths through engaging learning experiences and broader opportunities across the College.
It’s an important stage where students begin taking greater responsibility for their learning while continuing to receive the guidance and encouragement they need to thrive.
Do Year 5 students have opportunities to experience Senior School?
Yes. One of the real advantages of joining ELTHAM in Year 5 is that students begin experiencing aspects of Senior School well before they reach Year 7.
Specialist classes, including Science, Multimedia and Library, take place in Senior School facilities and are taught by Senior School teachers. This means students aren’t simply visiting Senior School — they’re actively learning in these spaces and becoming familiar with the teachers, facilities and broader College environment.
All of this takes place while they continue to benefit from the care, structure and support of Junior School.
How does ELTHAM help new students settle into Year 5?
Starting at a new school is an important step, and feeling welcomed, supported and connected makes all the difference.
At ELTHAM, strong relationships between students and teachers help create an environment where children feel known, encouraged and comfortable being themselves.
Through everyday learning, shared experiences and opportunities to build friendships, students can develop a sense of belonging and the confidence to embrace new challenges.
How does joining in Year 5 support the transition to Year 7?
Students who join ELTHAM in Year 5 have the advantage of two years to become part of the College community before transitioning to Senior School.
By the time they reach Year 7, they’re already familiar with the campus, have established friendships and relationships across the College, and feel more confident navigating their surroundings.
Rather than starting at an entirely new school, they’re progressing into the next stage of an environment and community they already know. This familiarity helps make the transition to Year 7 feel like a natural next step.
Can we visit ELTHAM to learn more about Year 5?
Absolutely. Visiting ELTHAM is a wonderful way to explore the learning environment, meet members of the College community and discover what the Year 5 experience could offer your child.
Families are encouraged to explore the College’s available tours and events and speak with the Admissions team about their child’s individual needs and interests.