Transition to primary school
Starting school is a big step for children and families. Our school runs orientation and transition activities to help your child feel ready for Kindergarten and to support you as parents and carers.
Read the Getting ready for primary school guide for detailed tips and checklists.
Before your child starts Kindergarten
Enrolment interview
Before your child begins, all families meet with our principal. This is a time to share:
- medical conditions or allergies
- learning support needs
- family circumstances that may affect your child’s start
We want every child to feel safe, supported and included in school life.
Kindergarten orientation and information sessions
In Term four, students enrolled for Kindergarten the following year attend School Transition sessions. We invite the students to spend two half day sessions and one full day at school. During these visits the students spend time in the classroom, eat and play in the playground, tour the school, participate in whole school assembly, meet the school staff and our other students and begin to build relationships with their peers who will be starting school with them.
Our orientation sessions help children:
- meet teachers and classmates
- explore classrooms and playgrounds
- practise simple routines
Parents and carers join information sessions to learn about daily schedules, uniforms, lunches and communication. If you need an interpreter, let us know.
Getting ready at home
You can help your child get ready by encouraging independence and routines. Try:
- packing and unpacking their school bag
- dressing themselves and practising hygiene
- following simple routines at home.
For more advice, see the Getting ready for primary school guide.
What to expect in Kindergarten
Learning and development
Kindergarten follows the NSW curriculum. Children build early skills in literacy, numeracy, creative arts, health and physical activity, science and technology. Learning through play also supports social, emotional and academic growth.
Daily routines
Children learn routines such as morning arrival, snack and lunch breaks, lining up, using bubblers and moving safely around the school. Teachers guide children as they settle in, but practising at home helps.
Best Start Assessment
At the start of the year, all Kindergarten children take part in the Best Start Assessment. This is a friendly, one-on-one activity where teachers learn about your child’s literacy and numeracy skills. It is not a test and needs no preparation.
Year Two Transition to Year Three
Our Year two students move onto a variety of local schools for Years three – six. Some of the main schools they move to are Leichhardt PS, Petersham PS, Stanmore PS, Annandale North PS and Orange Grove PS. These schools facilitate transition sessions for our students during Term Four. These schools share information about their open days, school tour programs and other events which we communicate to our families.