Kindergarten
Kindergarten is an important year of schooling as children formally begin to develop their literacy and numeracy skills. Our whole school community is committed to helping your child adjust to school and to ensuring they feel they belong, are supported, and are valued every day.
When to start school?
When to start your child at school is an individual decision. You may want to discuss this with us or with your child's pre-school teacher, carer or doctor. The NSW Department of Education parent website contains some key points, including:
- Age - children may be enrolled in Kindergarten at the beginning of the school year if they turn five years of age on or before the 31st of July in that year and all children must be enrolled by their sixth birthday
- Physical readiness
- Social and emotional readiness
- Children don't need to read and write before they start school
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
- information about your child as an individual, including how they learn best and any accommodations that may support their success
We want every child to feel safe, supported, and included in school life.
Kindergarten orientation and information sessions
Our orientation sessions help children:
- meet teachers and classmates
- explore classrooms and playgrounds
- practise simple routines
Parents and carers also attend information sessions to learn about daily schedules, uniforms, lunches, and school communication. These sessions also share ways you can support your child’s learning and stay connected with our school community. If you need an interpreter, please let us know.
Kindergarten orientation
Kindergarten orientation for this year has been completed. If you need further information please Contact us.
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. This provides teachers with a clear learning journey for your child to support their needs.
Buddy program
To support a smooth transition to school, our Kindergarten/Year 6 Buddy Program helps build a special and supportive relationship between the youngest and oldest students at Oakhill Drive. Buddies meet weekly for organised activities such as art, reading, learning new games or sports, or simply spending time together. Our Year 6 buddies are inspiring leaders who model kindness, responsibility, and positive school values, helping Kindergarten students feel confident, welcomed, and supported as they settle into school life.