For children starting school next year, the countdown to big school is officially on. 

Kindergarten Orientation gives children and families their first opportunity to experience school life before the first day. From meeting teachers and future classmates to exploring the classroom and playground, Orientation helps children become familiar with their new environment in a fun and welcoming way. 

At Sydney Catholic Schools, Orientation programs are designed to help children and families feel connected, informed and excited about the journey ahead. 

Read on to discover what you can expect at Kindergarten Orientation. 

Hello, new friends! 

One of the highlights of Orientation is meeting the people who will be part of your child’s school experience. 

Children spend time with their Kindergarten teachers, meet future classmates and, at many schools, are introduced to older student buddies who help them feel welcome. 

By the time the first day arrives, there are already familiar smiles waiting for them. 

What happens during Orientation? 

Orientation is filled with fun, age-appropriate activities that introduce children to their new learning environment.  

There might be a story on the mat, a song to sing, something to create or a new game to play. Along the way, children get to explore their classroom, join in group activities and discover that learning at big school can be lots of fun. 

Parent Tip: Instead of asking “Did you have fun?”, try “What was your favourite thing about your new classroom?” or “Who did you meet today?” You might get a little more than a one-word answer! 

Getting Ready for School Life  

Orientation also introduces children to some of the routines they’ll experience when school begins. 

From finding their …

So the big day is fast approaching: starting Kindergarten. Your little one is about to step into the brave new world of uniforms, bells and assemblies, snack-time negotiations, learning to read and write, and (gulp) homework. 

And you? You’re preparing for one of the biggest parenting milestones – watching your baby take those first steps into “big school.”

It can feel a little overwhelming for everyone, but with the right support (and a few tried-and-tested tips), the transition can be filled with excitement, smiles, and a healthy dose of anticipation for what’s ahead.

1. Pack the comfort kit

Every superhero needs a cape…and every Kindergarten child needs a comfort kit. This might be a favourite teddy, a small family photo, or a little trinket they can keep tucked in their pocket. It’s their reminder that home is never far away.

2. Talk about school in a positive light

Sydney Catholic Schools Early Years Curriculum Specialist, Kim Moroney, suggests that, when we talk to children about starting school, it’s best to do so in a positive, natural way.

“We don’t want to build it up as the most amazing thing ever, because that can feel like a lot of pressure,” she says. “Our goal is to help children feel secure, supported, and joyful about starting school.” 

For example, instead of saying “You’re going to have the best time ever at school!”, parents might say, “You’ll get to meet new friends, play games, and learn lots of interesting things.” This helps set realistic expectations while keeping the focus positive and reassuring.

3. Practise the morning routine

Nobody enjoys a first-day scramble with socks missing in action and lunch boxes still in the dishwasher. Try a practice run: backpack on, shoes tied (ish), and …

I’m not crying, you’re crying! Watching your little one head off to kindergarten for the first time is a big moment with big emotions. Starting ‘big school’ is an exciting milestone—for your child and for you! But let’s face it, it can also feel a little overwhelming. With a few fun activities, you can help your child march bravely into this new chapter and make their first days of school the start of a joyful adventure.

Here are our three favourite ways to get ready for Kindergarten at home.

1. Start Building Familiarity

Kindergarten is a big adventure, and a little preparation can go a long way in helping your child feel excited and ready to start school. Visit the school together to make it familiar, and practice packing and using their lunch box, perhaps on a fun picnic. Talk about the exciting activities ahead, like art projects, storytime, and making new friends. By building excitement and familiarity, you’ll help your child step confidently into this new chapter.

2. Create Connections Early

The social side of school is a huge part of the experience! Orientation days are a great opportunity for your child to meet their teacher and classmates, making their official first day less of a challenge. After Orientation, you might even mark the first day of school on the calendar as a countdown to something amazing.

3. Play ‘School’ at Home

Want to make learning fun? Turn your living room into a mini-classroom! Set up a pretend school, with you as the teacher and your child as the student (and vice versa!). This kind of imaginative play helps your child role-play the kinds of activities, routine and structure they’ll encounter at school—and shows them that learning …

Kindergarten marks the beginning of an exciting time where your child will take their first step on a journey of lifelong learning. That step can be a big one though and so it helps to have a head start—that’s where Kindergarten Orientation comes in.

Here’s what to expect from Orientation and why it’s so valuable in preparing your child for primary school.

Easing the transition—for children and families alike!

From lunchtime routines and uniform protocols, to classwork and playground life, Kindergarten Orientation helps gently introduce new concepts that may be different from preschool or daycare.

Kevin Bryson, Principal at Fr John Therry Catholic Primary School Balmain/Rozelle, says Orientation soothes any anxieties children and families may have, and gives them time to adjust before the start of the year.

“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,” he says.

“The focus is on having the whole family feeling more prepared and confident for the year ahead”

Building teacher and peer connections

Orientation is where your child will first meet their new teacher, classmates and Year 6 buddy.

They will begin to establish an all-important trust with their Kindergarten teacher and other educators, and get to know the peers they will learn alongside for the next seven years.

“The social aspect of Kindergarten is so crucial,” says Caroline Boulis, Principal at St Pius’ Catholic Primary School Enmore.

“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”

Learning …

Starting primary school is a huge milestone for both children and their families. It marks a time of excitement, growth, and new experiences. Here’s what you can expect in your child’s first year of school.

What they’ll learn

The first year of primary school focuses on learning foundational skills in literacy and numeracy as specified in the curriculum provided by the NSW Education Standards Authority (NESA).

• Literacy in Kindergarten involves speaking, listening, reading, and writing. Students learn how to follow directions, take turns, ask questions and develop a knowledge of words.

They learn new vocabulary, to form letters, write words and sentences, follow print conventions, and begin to read short books.

• Numeracy in Kindergarten involves understanding how numbers work. Your child may count up to 30 (and sometimes backward),  identify numerals and their quantities, and learn how to add, subtract, and describe size, time and patterns.

They may also recognise and name two and three-dimensional shapes, and develop spatial awareness and the vocabulary to describe mathematical concepts.

“Your child will also be exposed to a range of quality literature,” said Curriculum & Innovation Specialist at Sydney Catholic Schools, Maryanne Thorne.

“Don’t be surprised if your child comes home excited to share new knowledge or practise skills as they begin to read and write.”

A small amount of homework may become a part of your child’s routine. 

“It’s usually a light review of classroom learning,” Ms Thorne said. “Create a quiet and comfortable space for homework, and encourage a positive attitude toward completing tasks independently.”

Emotional growth

The first year of school is also a time of significant emotional growth. Your child will learn to navigate different emotions, express …