Prep is the first compulsory year of school and is an exciting time for little ones and their parents! Prep provides the foundation for your child’s education and children attend Monday to Friday for the full school day.
When can my child start Prep?
To enrol in Prep, children must be aged five years by 30 June in the year of proposed attendance.
| Date of Birth | Eligible for Prep in: | Year 1 in: |
| Child born 1 July 2018 – 30 June 2019 | 2024 | 2025 |
| Child born 1 July 2019 – 30 June 2020 | 2025 | 2026 |
| Child born 1 July 2020 – 30 June 2021 | 2026 | 2027 |
| Child born 1 July 2021 – 30 June 2022 | 2027 | 2028 |
What should I do if I think my child isn’t ready to start Prep?
Most children commence Prep in the year they become eligible (turning 5 by June 30), however parents who are concerned their child is not ready to start Prep at that time can choose to start their child a year later – the year they become of compulsory school age (6 years and 6 months). If you have questions or concerns about your child’s readiness for Prep, speak with your child’s Kindergarten Teacher or School Principal.
School Tour and Interview
In Term 2, we begin arranging interviews for families that have submitted a Prep application for the following year. Our Principal will meet with you and your child, followed by a walk through tour of our school.
Prep Transition Programme
St Michael’s believes that a positive and comprehensive introduction to school life is imperative to the success of children and parents. For many Prep students, this is their first experience of a school environment and for many parents, the first time they have engaged with a school since they were a student themselves.
The Prep Transition programme is held during term 3 and 4 in the year before starting Prep. Enrolled children are invited to spend an hour each week with other Prep students touring the school, meeting teachers and generally getting to know what ‘big school’ is all about.
During this time, parents are invited to attend information sessions presented by various staff throughout the school, including tours of our learning and support spaces. Parents are encouraged and welcome to participate in as many sessions as possible. Involvement in this programme helps make the move to school a little smoother for children and their families.
Transition helps children feel that they are an important part of the group and it teaches children how to express themselves in a positive way. Above all, transition provides a place where children can form and enjoy healthy relationships before commencing their academic school year. More information is sent to enrolled families by email.
St Michael’s Playgroup
Families are invited to join our free community Playgroup every Monday and Tuesday from 9am to 11am in the school hall (access via Muir Street). This playgroup is a great way to meet other families in our area with young children aged 0 – 5 years.
Handy tips for starting Prep
