Starting Kindergarten
Starting primary school is an exciting and important milestone for both children and their families. At Mona Vale Public School, we provide a safe, supported transition program designed to help every child feel confident and ready to begin Kindergarten. Our strong focus on wellbeing and inclusion ensures that each student is known, valued and cared for from their very first day. Through a range of orientation and transition activities, we support children to become familiar with school routines and build positive connections, while also guiding and reassuring parents and carers throughout the process.
Read the Getting ready for primary school guide for detailed tips and checklists.
Visit us before you enrol
Starting a new school is a big step. We're here to help make the transition a smooth and positive experience for every student and their family.
Our tours for 2026 will be held on the following dates:
- Tuesday 15 September: 4:00-5:00pm
- Term 4: Tuesday 13 October: 10:00am - 11:00am and Thursday 19 November: 4:00pm - 5:00pm.
Meet our friendly staff, explore our school facilities, and see what makes our school a great place to learn.
Before your child starts Kindergarten
Enrolment Interview
Before your child starts school, families are invited to meet with our Deputy Principal and/or Assistant Principal (Kindergarten). This meeting allows us to get to know your child and discuss any medical, learning or family information that will help us support a successful start to school.
Parent Information Evening
Our Parent Information Evening provides important information about starting Kindergarten, including the transition program, Best Start Assessment, school routines and curriculum. You'll also have the opportunity to meet some of our staff, connect with other families and ask any questions before your child begins school. Please note this session is for parents and carers only.
Kindergarten Transition Program
Our Kindergarten Transition Program helps children feel comfortable, confident and excited about starting school.
Through our School Discovery Morning and Transition to School Sessions, children become familiar with the school environment, meet our staff, make new friends and begin to feel part of the school community. Families also have the opportunity to explore our learning spaces and learn more about life at Mona Vale Public School.
School Discovery Morning
Children and their families are invited to spend a morning at our school before the Transition Sessions begin. Families will visit a Kindergarten classroom, take part in activities, enjoy a performance by our current students and learn what a typical day in Kindergarten looks like.
Transition to School Sessions
Held over three consecutive weeks, children attend one session each week to meet their teachers, explore the school, make new friends and participate in classroom activities. These student-only sessions help children build confidence and make a smooth transition to school.
Kindergarten orientation
We warmly invite prospective parents and their children to join us for our Kindergarten transition at Mona Vale Public School!
Our transition program is designed to help your child feel comfortable and excited about starting school, while giving families the opportunity to meet our dedicated staff and explore our vibrant learning spaces.
Transition sessions are a wonderful way for students to make new friends, build confidence, and feel a sense of belonging from day one.
Parents will gain practical information about routines, school programs, and how we partner with you to support your child's learning and wellbeing.
We look forward to welcoming you and your child into our friendly school community and beginning this exciting new chapter together.
Getting ready at home
You can help prepare your child for school by encouraging independence at home. Practise:
- packing and unpacking their school bag
- dressing independently
- opening lunch containers and drink bottles
- following simple daily routines.
For more advice, see the Getting ready for primary school guide.
What to expect in Kindergarten
Learning and development
Children learn through a balance of explicit teaching, play-based learning and hands-on experiences across literacy, numeracy, science and technology, creative arts, and health and physical education.
Daily routines
Children quickly become familiar with school routines such as arriving at school, fruit break, recess and lunch, lining up and moving safely around the school. Teachers provide plenty of support as children settle in.
Best Start Assessment
At the start of the year, all Kindergarten children take part in the Best Start Assessment. This is a relaxed, one-on-one activity that helps teachers understand each child's literacy and numeracy skills. No preparation is needed.
Frequently Asked Questions:
When will I find out my child's class?
Class placements are emailed to families a few days before school starts, along with a social narrative introducing your child's teacher and class.
What time should we arrive on the first day?
Please arrive between 8:20am and 8:45am and take your child to their classroom. From Week 2, students go to the playground on arrival.
Can I take my child into the classroom?
Yes, during the first week. We ask that you help your child hang up their bag before saying a short, confident goodbye.
What time is pick-up?
Kindergarten finishes at 2:40pm during the first week and 2:45pm from Week 2 onwards, in line with our school bell time.
Where do I collect my child?
Teachers will bring students to the designated Kindergarten pick-up area.
How are OOSH, bus and sibling pick-ups managed?
Staff supervise all students until they are collected by OOSH, escorted to the buses or met by their older sibling.
What should my child pack in their school bag?
- School hat
- Drink bottle
- Fruit break
- Morning tea
- Lunch
How should food be packed?
Please pack fruit break, morning tea and lunch in separate containers. Fruit break should consist of fresh fruit or vegetables.
Does the school have a nut-free policy?
While no foods are banned, we encourage families to pack nut-free lunches where possible.
Should I label my child's belongings?
Yes. Please clearly label all clothing and personal belongings with your child's name.
What do I do with the Transition Pack?
Your child will receive a transition pack at their final orientation session. The library bag is for your child to keep and use once school starts. The activities inside the bag are optional and do not need to be returned.
What is the Tea and Tissues Morning Tea?
After drop-off on the first day, our P&C hosts a morning tea for Kindergarten families to meet other parents and chat with staff.
Where can I find the stationery list and Parent Information Evening presentation?
Both will be uploaded to our website following the Parent Information Evening.
Our friendly team are here to help: Contact us