Kindergarten: A Springboard into the QMS Experience

By Hayley Picard, Director of Communications and Marketing & Alison Galloway, Junior School Principal

On Orientation Day, twenty-three eager Kindergarten students took their very first steps into the QMS community. Their journey was marked by warm smiles, gentle guidance, and a special welcome from three Grade 12 students—students who, just thirteen years ago, began in the very same classrooms. Watching the future Class of 2038 meet their teachers, explore their new learning spaces, and hug their pony stuffy friends was a reminder of the powerful role that Kindergarten plays as the springboard for the QMS experience.

Kindergarten is more than just the start of school. It is where curiosity is nurtured, friendships are formed, and a sense of belonging begins to grow. These first experiences help shape how children see themselves as learners, as community members, and as explorers of the world around them. When a child feels safe, supported, and inspired from the very beginning, they are more likely to carry that joy and confidence with them throughout their education.

In just their first week, our Kindergarten students have already had many exciting “firsts.” They enjoyed lunch in our dining hall and learned how to select food from the hot food and salad buffet, as well as how to clear their plates and use the compost. They practiced playing on the playground with an exciting slide demonstration from Mrs. Snow, explored the inside of a school bus while learning about bus safety, and attended their first Music, French, and PE classes with their specialist teachers. Kindergarten students were also welcomed into their spirit houses during the first primary assembly, marking their official place in our QMS community.

At QMS, we recognize that Kindergarten lays the foundation for a student’s journey. The routines, relationships, and discoveries made here can spark a lifelong love of learning and create a pathway toward resilience, creativity, and kindness. As educators and as a community, we feel privileged to walk alongside our youngest Royals as they begin this exciting chapter.

We are honoured to welcome the Class of 2038 and their families, and we look forward to seeing how each child’s unique story unfolds. This is just the beginning of a personal path of exploration—and what a joy it is to witness.