Kindergarten transition at Katoomba Public School

We warmly welcome all our 2027 kindergarten children and their families. We look forward to getting to know you and your child. We understand that starting school is an important milestone for both children and families. Our comprehensive transition program is designed to support students in building confidence and developing a positive connection to school.

Our transition program prepares children to make new friends, learn routines, and develop a sense of belonging. It also helps us to best support your child’s individual needs and get to know their interests and skills.

We provide multiple opportunities for our new students and their families to familiarise themselves with the school environment and staff in the year before they start school. They will have the opportunity to get to know other children who are also starting their learning journey, and you'll meet the other families. We run information sessions for parents and caregivers, providing families with a chance to connect with our staff, each other and the broader school community. You are also always welcome to book an individual tour of our beautiful school.

Kindergarten Transition 2027 calendar

During Term 3, staff and some of our senior "buddy" students visit local preschools, allowing the teachers and children to start getting to know each other.

Our school-based transition sessions run in Term 4 and include a mix of play-based family sessions and more formal orientation sessions. Our play-based transition sessions are opportunities for children and their families to familiarise themselves with the school environment, in a relaxed and fun way. You will have the opportunity to explore different parts of the school and connect with other children and their families who will be starting school next year. The more formal orientation sessions are run in the kindergarten classrooms, and children will get a taste of some of the fun things they'll learn once they start "big school". Children are dropped off by their parents or caregivers for the orientation sessions. We also hold an information session for the adults, where you will have an opportunity to ask questions and find out more about starting school. One of our favourite transition events is the BBQ afternoon tea where you'll meet more of our wonderful staff and have some fun!

All transition sessions are included in our Calendar of Events.

Community playgroup

A great way to help your child becoming comfortable and familiar in the school environment, is to come along to a Stronger Beginning, Brighter Future playgroup. These playgroups are held at local schools, including Katoomba Public School, Wentworth Falls Public School and Hazelbrook Public School, and are great way to build familiarity and confidence before starting school.

Our Starting School Buddy Program

Starting "Big School" is a milestone in every child’s life and, at Katoomba Public School. We aim to make this transition as smooth and as positive as possible for both our students and their families. A big part of this transition is our Starting School Buddy Program.

Our senior students are invited to apply for the very important role of Kindergarten Buddy. Their role is to support your child as they meet their teacher, engage in some "Big School" activities and familiarise themselves with the school environment, and to act as a support and friend for them on orientation days, the start of their school year and throughout their kindergarten year.

Best Start

The Best Start Kindergarten Assessments at Katoomba Public School will take place early in your child's kindergarten year. You will receive the results of the assessment within a few weeks after they start school.

You can find more information about the  Best Start Kindergarten Assessment  here.

Kindergarten resources for parents & carergivers

Daisy's First Day The Department of Education has produced a special picture book for parents and carers to support their child's transition to primary school. Follow Daisy the koala as she embarks on her exciting first day.

Starting primary school Children who have a positive start to school are likely to engage and experience ongoing academic and social success. The Department of Education offers useful information and tips for the lead up to starting school and has some helpful information to assist your child's orientation and smooth transition to Kindergarten in 2026.

Have a question for our principal or teachers?

Our friendly office team can help you get in touch.

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