I think it is a good move, but I would say that this transitional year should really be a transitional semester. The second semester should really ramp up the expectations. A year is a long time in the life of a 4 year old and treating them all the same is never a good idea. Those who are young for their academic year with a late birthday are able to catch up very quickly with a transitional start, but keeping them behind for a full year often get bored. We have one with a late birthday and although the slower pace may have suited her at first, she soon was very bored in kindergarten as the year progressed. By the end of kindergarten she actually said she didn't like school as it was boring being held back from reading at her own ability and not moving on quickly enough in math to suit her. I believe the challenge has increased since her start, but advancing mid year to another level with two intakes per year is a successful way to start a formal education.