So, your child is about to start big school. Deep breath. This is the moment you’ve probably been equal parts dreading and dreaming about – the leap from preschool to primary. But before the uniforms are ironed and the lunchboxes are packed, there’s a magical time designed to make the transition smoother: Kindy Orientation.

Orientation is the perfect sneak peek into school life. Here’s what you can expect:

Meet the Crew: Teachers, Buddies & Future Besties

One of the best parts of Kindergarten Orientation? Your child gets to meet the people who will shape their school days – from their classroom teacher to future classmates and even a friendly Year 6 buddy who’ll be there to lend a hand (or a high-five) when school officially begins.

These early introductions are more than just cute photo ops — they’re the first steps in building trust, social confidence, and a sense of belonging.

Caroline Boulis, Principal at St Pius’ Catholic Primary School Enmore, highlights just how important this is:

“The social aspect of Kindergarten is so crucial. Orientation allows children to work on essential skills like cooperation and communication, and form friendships that will help them navigate the challenges of starting school.”

These early connections help children feel supported and less alone, making the transition from preschool to primary feel less like a leap — and more like a natural next step.

Play-Based Prep (AKA Learning in Disguise)

Orientation is all about fun, not formalities. Expect hands-on activities like drawing, storytelling, building blocks, and classroom games carefully designed to help children settle in and feel at home.

When kids are having fun, they forget to be nervous. Win-win.

Routines, Rules & Recess

From drop-offs and bell times to where the toilets are and how to open a tricky lunchbox, your child will get a taste of the daily school routine.

You get a front-row seat to how everything works (and maybe even learn where the lost property bin lives. Trust us, you’ll need it).

Teachers Start Getting to Know Your Little Learner

Behind the fun and finger-painting, teachers are observing how your child learns, plays, and interacts. It’s their chance to begin tailoring support early – because every child is wonderfully different.

Parents, You’re Part of the Story Too

While the kids are busy in the classroom, there’s usually a welcome session for parents. You’ll get a clearer picture of how the school runs, who’s who in the staffroom, and what support is available to you throughout the year.

Kevin Bryson, Principal at Fr John Therry Catholic Primary School Balmain/Rozelle, puts it perfectly:

“At our Orientation, for example, while our teachers make students feel at home in the classroom, we also speak to parents and carers, welcoming them into their new community and answering any questions they might have.”

Orientation helps to ease any first-day jitters – not just for children, but for families too. It gives everyone a chance to breathe, settle in, and feel like they belong before the big first day rolls around.

Tip: Ask the questions, take the brochures, and don’t be shy, everyone’s in the same boat (even the ones pretending not to cry).

Confidence, Not Chaos

Most importantly, Orientation is about making your child feel like school is a place they want to be. By the end of the session, many kids leave buzzing, ready to start this next chapter with excitement (and maybe a few stickers).

Kindy Orientation isn’t just a box to tick, it’s a carefully designed day to help your child feel confident, connected, and genuinely excited about school life. And yes, it might pull at your heartstrings, but that’s part of the magic too.

So, bring the tissues, charge your phone for those cute photos, and get ready… your little one is about to take their first (tiny but mighty) step into big school.

An emphasis on excellence in all areas of education – from academic to vocational, sport and the arts – helps Sydney Catholic Schools nurture the potential of all students in their 147-strong network of primary and secondary schools.

Click here to find your nearest Catholic school.