Starting kindergarten
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.
"The first day of school is the first step in a great adventure."
The Ermington West Public School community will welcome and nurture your child as we spend the next 6 years learning and growing together.
When to start school
Children can start kindergarten at the beginning of the school year if they turn 5 on or before 31 July that year. By law, all children must be in compulsory schooling by their 6th birthday.
When your child starts school is an individual decision. You may wish to discuss this with your child's preschool teacher, carer, doctor or your local primary school. Our teachers are trained to work with your child regardless of their age or level of development.
Children develop at different rates and learn skills in different ways. At Ermington West we respond to the needs, learning styles and rates of progress of individual students.
Before your child starts Kindergarten
Enrolment application
Please enrol your child by September of the year prior to them starting to ensure you don't miss out on any information or the orientation days and to assist with planning. If you are unable to enrol prior to September (for example you have moved house) please contact us.
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
Our orientation sessions help children:
- meet teachers and classmates
- explore classrooms and playgrounds
- practice 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.
Kindergarten orientation
Join our next Kindergarten orientation. This is an RSVP event and students must be enrolled to start next year.
Date: 4th and 11th November
Time: 9:10am - 10:50am
Contact us for more information.
Getting ready at home
You can help your child get ready by encouraging independence and routines. Try:
- packing and unpacking their school bag
- opening their lunch box and containers
- dressing themselves and practicing good hygiene
- following simple routines at home.
For more advice, see the Getting ready for primary school guide.
Join Daisy on her first day at primary school. Who will she meet? What will she learn? What adventures await her?
Read Daisy's First Day together.
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 practicing 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.
