Starting Kindergarten
Beginning primary school is a big milestone for both children and their families. Glendenning Public School offers a range of orientation and transition programs designed to help your child become familiar with the school environment and to support parents and carers throughout the transition process.
Read the Getting ready for primary school guide for detailed tips and checklists.
Before your child starts Kindergarten
Enrolment interview
As part of the Kindergarten enrolment process, all families will be invited to attend a meeting with a member of our school staff.
This meeting allows us to learn more about your child, including their interests, abilities and any health, learning or support requirements. The information you share helps us prepare for your child's transition to school and ensures we can provide the most appropriate support from the very beginning.
Meetings will be scheduled throughout Terms 3 and 4 and will take approximately 25 minutes. If your child has any relevant reports, such as assessments from a paediatrician, speech pathologist, psychologist, occupational therapist or other health professionals, we encourage you to bring copies to the meeting.
Kindergarten orientation and information sessions
At Glendenning Public School, our Kindergarten Orientation and Transition program is designed to prepare your child for school. This program helps children and families familiarise themselves with the school environment and staff and practise simple routines before the school year begins.
As part of our 2026 Kindergarten Orientation and Transition Program, we will be hosting the following events. Further information about each event will be provided to families following enrolment.
Kindergarten Parent Information Session
Kindergarten Prep for School Sessions
Dates:
Session 1 - Tuesday 20 October, 2026
Session 2 - Tuesday 27 October, 2026
Families are invited to attend both sessions.
Kindergarten Transition Visits
Dates:
Session 1 - Wednesday 4 November, 2026
Session 2 - Wednesday 11 November, 2026
Session 3 - Wednesday 18 November, 2026
Children attend all three sessions.
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.