As we farewell our graduating students, we look forward to welcoming our new Prep cohort in 2026, just at the beginning of their educational journey.
With more than three decades of experience in education and a deep commitment to early years pedagogy, Kylie-Jo Harvey brings a wealth of expertise and passion to her role as Senior Education Advisor - Early Years (Prep-2).
Starting her career as an early years educator, Kylie-Jo was the foundation Prep teacher at Our Lady Help of Christians Hendra, leading the implementation of the new Prep curriculum.
Kylie-Jo is a passionate advocate for early years pedagogy and deeply values the unique qualities and opportunities these learning environments offer our youngest learners.“Prep to Year 2 classrooms are dynamic spaces that honour children’s agency, creativity, and diverse ways of knowing,” she says.
“Learning is deeply connected to wellbeing, and our environments must be nurturing and flexible.”
BCE is developing professional learning modules and resources that empower educators to design environments where children feel safe, challenged, and inspired.
“Teachers in the early years are intentional in their planning,” Kylie-Jo said.
“I am looking forward to supporting them to create rich, responsive learning environments that honour the unique needs of Prep to Year 2 students, laying the foundation for lifelong learning.”
BCE integrates the science of learning, high-impact practices, and differentiated pedagogical strategies to create vibrant, inclusive classrooms.
Kylie-Jo partners closely with Senior Education Advisors Dionne Julliard and Amelia Martin who lead Years 3-4 and Years 5-6 in the primary team.
Through collaboration and capacity building the team drives research-informed innovation and professional learning to advance excellence and equity for all learners.
"Working in this role enables me to contribute to system advice that helps ensure the first years of formal schooling for every child are grounded in belonging, safety and a love of learning.”
“Being part of BCE gives me the opportunity to build professional learning and resourcing that supports teachers and school leaders to make a meaningful difference for children and their families from the very beginning of their schooling journey."
The transition to Prep is a pivotal milestone for children and their families.
“When children feel safe and connected, they are more likely to engage, explore, and thrive in their learning,” she said.
“Strong relationships between families, educators, and children are essential to creating a positive transition to school and building trust."
BCE schools take pride in purposefully engaging with families early and often, forging strong partnerships that support each child's growth and success from the very start of their schooling.
Here are some tips for families that can support a smooth and positive start to Prep:
Talk positively about school. Share excitement and reassurance to help build confidence and curiosity.
- Establish routines early. Practice morning and bedtime routines to help your child feel secure and ready.
- Encourage independence. Support skills like packing their bag, using the toilet, and putting on shoes.
- Read together daily. Build a love of stories and language to support early literacy.
- Practise listening and following instructions. Play games that involve turn-taking and simple directions.
- Label everything. Help your child keep track of their belongings with clear, visible labels.
- Visit the school grounds. Familiarise your child with the environment to reduce first-day nerves.
- Talk about feelings. Help your child name and manage emotions, especially around change and new experiences.
- Stay connected with the school. Build relationships with teachers and staff to support your child’s journey. Use your child’s kindy transition statement to talk through learning opportunities with your new teacher.
- Celebrate small wins. Acknowledge progress and effort to build confidence and a sense of achievement.