In New South Wales, children can start Kindergarten at the beginning of the school year if they turn 5 on or before 31 July of that year. By law, children must be enrolled in school by their 6th birthday.

Every child develops at their own pace, and schools are experienced in supporting children with a wide range of abilities, strengths and backgrounds. Starting school is a big step, and it’s normal to have questions about whether the timing is right for your child.

It can be very helpful to speak with their early childhood education and care (ECEC) teacher or educator. They can offer insights into your child’s learning and development and help you consider how ready they are for school routines, social interactions and learning environments.

School readiness is not about academic skills like reading, writing, and maths but rather encompasses a child's overall development and ability to thrive in a school environment. These skills can continue to grow across the year, so it’s a good idea to check in regularly with your child’s educator and keep the conversation going. You might also find it helpful to use the Your Child’s Journey to School timeline tool, which supports parents and carers to prepare for school in the year before Kindergarten.

Contact your local school to discuss enrolment procedures.

To find your local public school and start the online enrolment process, you can use the School Finder tool and Primary school enrolment. If you’re unsure or have questions, you can also contact the school directly – they’re there to help.

Once you’ve found your local school, it’s a good idea to visit their website, sign up for newsletters and follow them on social media. This is often where schools share important updates about enrolment timelines, open days, orientation activities and community events. Each school may run their enrolment and orientation activities a little differently to suit your local context, so it’s worth staying in touch.

Starting school is a big step and there’s a lot you can do to help your child feel confident and ready.

Talk positively about school, create simple routines at home (like getting dressed and packing a bag) and give your child space to express how they’re feeling. Building independence with tasks like dressing, toileting and following instructions can also help.

Your child’s ECEC teacher or educator can support you with ideas and insights tailored to your child. They can also share a range of Department of Education resources to help your child and family get ready for this important transition.

Attending your child’s orientation sessions or transition program can help your child feel more comfortable and connected. Keep an eye out for key dates or information the school will share often through their website, newsletters or social media.

NSW public schools are inclusive and offer a range of support for children with diverse learning, development, health and wellbeing needs. Every child is different, and schools work in partnership with families to understand each child and plan for a smooth transition.

If you think your child might need additional support, it’s best to contact your local public school as early as possible; two years before kindergarten. This gives the school time to work with you to plan the right support for your child. Find out more about how your child can be supported at your local public school at Primary school.

Your child’s ECEC teacher or educator can also help. They can share relevant information with the school and support you through the transition process.

Most public schools offer orientation events in Term 4.  However, there could be multiple opportunities to visit the school and participate in activities throughout the year prior to starting school. Check your local school’s website or contact the school directly to learn more. 

Every child is entitled to be enrolled at the government school that is designated for the intake area within which the child's home is situated and that the child is eligible to attend. Use School Finder to find your local NSW Government school. The school principal can help with enrolment inquiries throughout the year.

Schools may accept enrolments from outside their designated area if places are available. Such applications are subject to department policies. Contact the school for further information. If the school is able to accommodate non-local enrolments, the school will advise you of any non-local enrolment criteria.

• child’s birth certificate or identity documents
• schools may require documentation for a 100-point residential address check
• immunisation history statement from the Australian Immunisation Register
• any family law or other relevant court orders, if applicable
• if your child has health, disability or other support needs you will need to provide copies of medical/healthcare or emergency action plan and evidence of any disability and learning and support plans.

Orientation or transition sessions help your child get to know their new school, meet school staff and classmates and feel more comfortable with the school environment. These might include short visits to the classroom, group activities or family information sessions.

Each school runs these programs a little differently, so check your school’s website or contact them directly for details and dates.

Most children will need a school bag, a lunchbox, a drink bottle and a hat for sun protection. Some schools also provide a starter pack or a checklist to help you prepare.

Your school will give you all the details before the first day, usually during orientation or on the school’s website. If you’re unsure, it’s always okay to ask.

It’s completely understandable for children (and parents and carers) to feel a bit nervous in the early days of school. Most children settle in over the first few weeks with support and encouragement.

If your child is having difficulty, talk to their teacher. Schools are experienced in helping children feel safe, supported and included as they adjust to new routines.

Many public schools offer outside of school hours care, either on-site or at a nearby location.

Ask your school about what’s available in your area and how to register. You can also find more information at the Starting blocks website.