Starting Kindergarten
Starting primary school is a big step for children and families. Our school community is dedicated to supporting your child through this transition to ensure it is smooth and positive. On this page, you’ll find useful information, tips, and resources to help prepare your child and family for their first day and beyond. Together, we’ll make starting big school a great experience!
Our school runs orientation and transition activities to help your child feel ready for Kindergarten and to support you as parents and carers.
Read the Getting ready for primary school guide for detailed tips and checklists.
Upcoming Events
School Tours
Bespoke personal tours by appointment
Kindergarten Interviews are now open
Contact our friendly office staff:
Phone: 02 9567 5060
Email: arncliffe-p.school@det.nsw.edu.au
Scooter and Bike Morning
Wednesday 19th August 2026
Local preschools are invited to bring their scooters and bikes to ride around our beautiful playground. We will also have some playtime in the percussion garden and adventure playground.
Sports Morning
Friday 21st August 2026
9:15-10:00am
Local preschools are invited to participate in a sports session with our amazing teachers and students
Book week Activities
Monday 31st August 2026
10:00-11:00am
Story reading with our Librarian
Thursday 3rd September 2026
9:15am
Join our book character parade followed by a storybook reading K-6 and Buddy reading in the playground
Enquiry based learning and play morning
Thursday 22nd October 2026
10:00-11:00am
Local preschools are invited to participate in a play session with our amazing teachers and students
Kindergarten Transition
Week 1 9th-13th November 2026
Week 2 16th-20th November 2026
Parent workshops held in Week 2
End Of Year Concert
Tuesday 15th December 2026
9:20am
Local preschools are invited to join our end of year concert with performances by our students K-4
Playgroup
Every Friday morning
9:15-10:45am
Children aged 1-5 years old are welcome with a parent/carer
Easter Hat Parade 2027
Thursday 2nd April 2027
10:00-11:00am
Local preschools are invited to join our annual, colourful Easter Hat Parade and Easter basket raffle
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 transition and information sessions
Our transition 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.
Kindergarten Transition to School
Invitations will be emailed to parents inviting them to participate in our Kindergarten Transition Program.
Transition Week 1 - 09/11/2026-13/11/2026
Transition Week 2 - 16/11/2026-20/11/2026
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.