Transition to primary school
Starting school is a big step for children and families. Hazelbrook Public School runs orientation and transition activities to help your child feel ready for Kindergarten and to support you as parents and carers.
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.
Kindergarten orientation and information sessions
Our orientation sessions help children:
- meet teachers and classmates
- explore classrooms and playgrounds
- practise simple routines
Parents and carers join information sessions to learn about daily schedules, uniforms, lunches and communication. If you need an interpreter, let us know.
At Hazelbrook Public School, we offer an extensive transition and orientation program.
Open the links for the following information:
Starting school is an exciting time for all children. Whether it is your first child starting big school , or your third, it is an important event for any family. Watch the Transition to School video to follow one families experience.
The Department of Education Website also provides invaluable resources to support you and your child through this enormous developmental stage - First Day Advice from a Kindergarten teacher has many great tips and advice for this new adventure.
Daisy's First Day - Join Daisy on her first day at primary school. Who will she meet? What will she learn? What adventures await her?
Little Learners program
In Terms 3 and 4, we are offering weekly play-based Kindergarten transition sessions for children starting school in 2027.
Each week we will play, enjoy stories and craft, meet teachers and visit a different place around the school.
This nuturing, play-based approach to starting school heps children build confidence, form connections, and feel prepared for the learning journey. You can attend some or all the sessions.
These sessions compliment the formal school orientation sessions offered in Term 4.
Playgroup at Hazelbrook Public School
As part of the Strong Beginnings - Bright Futures program, children ages 0-5 and their families, are welcome to join us for playgroup once a week in the big hall.
Playgroups on school sites offer significant benefits for children and families, such as a smoother transition to formal schooling, improved social and emotional skills, and a strong support network for families.
By integrating with our wonderful school facilities, playgroups provide a convenient, safe environment for children to develop language, cognitive, and motor skills through play, while also connecting parents with community resources and other families.
Contact us for more information.
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.
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.