Getting to know your school

Transitioning to school is a journey of growth, learning, and adjustment for both children and parents.

By taking proactive steps to understand the school's environment, routines, and your child's specific needs, you can make this transition as positive and enriching as possible. Remember, your involvement, enthusiasm, and support are important in shaping your child's attitude towards school and their overall educational experience. Here are some key aspects parents should explore about their child's new school to help facilitate a seamless and positive start to their school experience.

Getting to know your school

Prepare early

Preparation plays an important role in easing the transition for your child, ensuring they feel secure, understood, and excited about the new experiences awaiting them. Gathering information about the school, its environment, routines, and the people within it can significantly demystify the process for you and your child. This preparation can be approached gradually, integrating it into your routine conversations and activities, or more formally through planning meetings with the school. Remember, the goal is to build a familiar and comforting picture of the school for your child, making the transition as smooth and positive as possible.

Understanding the school environment

Understanding the school's physical environment and the people your child will interact with is beneficial. Knowing the school's layout, including classrooms, bathrooms, and play areas, can help alleviate your child's anxiety about navigating a new space. Familiarising your child with the faces and names of key staff members, such as their teacher, the principal, and support staff, can also make the school environment seem more welcoming and less intimidating.

The playground experience

The playground is not just a space to play; it's a social hub where friendships are formed and social skills are developed. Understanding the playground dynamics, including the types of play equipment available and any supervised activities, can help prepare your child for this aspect of school life. Discussing playground rules and what to expect can also be helpful.

Getting to know the people at the school

Building relationships with the school staff, including the principal, deputy principal, teachers, and aides, can significantly benefit your child’s educational journey. Familiarising yourself and your child with these key figures can create a sense of comfort and belonging. Many schools offer meet-and-greet events or open days where you can interact with the staff and ask questions about their roles and how they can support your child.

Student buddies

Student buddy systems pair new students with older, more experienced students to help them navigate the new school environment. This peer support can ease the transition, promote a sense of belonging, and provide new students with a friendly point of contact. Buddies can help with everything from finding classrooms to understanding the school culture.

Reward/award systems

Reward systems are designed to acknowledge and celebrate students' academic and behavioural achievements. These systems can vary widely from school to school but often include certificates, trophies, or special privileges. Understanding the specific reward systems can help encourage your child and reinforce positive behaviours and achievements.

Bullying policy

A clear understanding of the school's bullying policy is crucial. Schools typically have a zero-tolerance policy towards bullying, outlining procedures for reporting and addressing incidents. Knowing how to report concerns and what support your child can expect is essential for ensuring their wellbeing.

Classroom rules

Find out if there are any specific classroom rules for your child’s classroom. These rules set the tone for learning and behaviour expectations. They often cover respect, participation, and safety. Familiarising yourself and your child with these rules can help set them up for success and ensure they understand the expectations within their learning environment.

Drop-off and pick-up procedures

Each school has specific procedures for drop-off and pick-up to ensure student safety. These may include designated areas, times, and protocols for parents and carers. It's important to follow these procedures closely to keep the school environment safe and orderly for all students and staff.

School routines

Familiarity with the school's daily routines can significantly ease the transition for your child. This includes understanding the school day's structure, such as start and finish times, recess, and lunch breaks. Knowing these routines beforehand allows you to prepare your child for the day's flow and helps set their expectations.

Uniform details

Understanding the uniform requirements, including any specific items your child might need, is essential. This helps prepare your child physically, sets the right expectations, and builds excitement for wearing their new uniform.

Additional items to bring to school

It is important to be aware of any extra items your child is expected to bring to school, such as stationery, lunch boxes, or specific educational materials. This ensures your child feels ready and equipped for their school day, fostering a sense of independence and confidence.

Special considerations

Each child's needs are unique, particularly for children with developmental delays or specific educational requirements. Gathering detailed information about the support services and accommodations available at the school is crucial. This might include learning support programs, personalised education plans, and any teaching methods or classroom environment adjustments to support your child's learning and development.

State and territory-specific information

Across Australia, there's a shared commitment to ensuring that children with developmental delays or disabilities are supported through their educational journey. While the specific programs and resources vary by state and territory, the overarching goal is the same: to provide an inclusive, supportive, and adaptive learning environment for every student. Parents and carers are encouraged to contact their respective education departments and local schools to explore available support and interventions, ensuring a positive and enriching start to their child's schooling experience. 

Understanding your Australian state or territory's specific support systems, resources, and regulations can be invaluable. Each jurisdiction has tailored approaches to ensure these children receive the support they need to thrive in the educational system. Below is a comprehensive guide to help families find the relevant information and support services across Australia.