Buddy System: Building Connections Across Caldecote Primary

At Caldecote Primary School, we believe in fostering a supportive and collaborative community where every pupil feels happy, secure, and valued. One of the ways we nurture this positive school culture is through our Buddy System, which links Reception pupils with Year 6 buddies.

What is Buddy Time?

Every half term, Reception and Year 6 pupils come together for Buddy Time—a special opportunity for older and younger pupils to build friendships, share experiences, and support each other. During these sessions, buddies participate in a range of fun and meaningful activities designed to:

• Help Reception pupils settle confidently into school life with the guidance and friendship of their Year 6 buddy.
• Develop leadership, empathy, and responsibility in our Year 6 pupils.
• Encourage positive social skills and collaboration across different year groups.
• Celebrate successes and create memories as a school community.

Supporting Routines Beyond Buddy Time

Year 6 buddies play an important role beyond their half-termly meetings. They actively support their Reception partners during key school routines such as assembly and playtimes by:

• Helping Reception pupils understand and follow school routines, ensuring they feel secure and included.
• Offering guidance and reassurance during transitions, making these moments positive and manageable.
• Modelling respectful behaviour and collaboration, reinforcing our school values of respect, consideration, and support.
• Encouraging Reception pupils to engage confidently and happily in the wider school community.

How It Works

• Each Reception pupil is paired with a Year 6 buddy.
• Buddies meet every half term during a dedicated Buddy Time session.
• Year 6 buddies provide ongoing support during assemblies, playtimes, and other school routines.
• Activities include story sharing, games, creative projects, and opportunities to talk and listen.
• Year 6 buddies act as role models, offering encouragement and kindness to their Reception partners.

Benefits for Our Pupils

• Reception pupils feel secure, happy, and motivated to engage in learning and play.
• Year 6 pupils develop leadership skills and a strong sense of community.
• Both age groups learn respect, consideration, and support for one another, embodying our school values.

Our Buddy System is a key part of how we create a happy, healthy, and high-achieving environment where every pupil can thrive.