Kindergarten

Starting school is a big step for children and families. Our school runs 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.

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.

Kindergarten Transition

Starting school is an exciting milestone, and our Kindergarten Transition Program helps make that first step a smooth and positive one! Held in Terms 3 and 4, our sessions focus on building early literacy and numeracy skills, developing social confidence, and helping children feel comfortable in the school environment. It’s a wonderful opportunity for children to get to know our staff, make new friends, and begin their learning journey with confidence and joy.

Activities

The program includes a range of engaging activities such as:

Individual and whole group learning experiences
Indoor and outdoor play and exploration
Interactive learning centres and structured play
A morning fruit break where children enjoy a healthy snack

What to bring

Each week, your child will need to bring:

A hat
A water bottle
A piece of fruit or healthy snack for fruit break

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.}

Parent Testimonial

_{^{"I can't speak highly enough of Cowper Public School and their incredible Kindergarten Transition program. My son did his first kindy transition last year, and I absolutely love the way the school gently prepared him for the big step. The staff took the time to get to know him and made sure the process was gradual, supportive and fun, helping him adjust to his new routine with confidence... it meant so much to see how much care and understanding went into helping my son feel comfortable in his new environment. The whole experience made starting kindergarten so much easier and more positive."}}

_{^{Tara Maxwell, parent of Cowper Public School}}

Have a question for us?

Our dedicated staff are here to support you throughout the enrolment process, ensuring a smooth and welcoming experience for all families. From answering your questions to guiding you through the necessary steps, we are committed to helping you join our school community with ease and confidence. Please don’t hesitate to reach out—we’re here to help!

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