PARENT INFORMATION

School Readiness

The close programming and planning of individual children can often lead to our teachers identifying an area of development that may affect your child’s ‘readiness’ for school. The social and emotional development of children has been identified as the most important areas of development that will determine the child’s progress towards a successful entry into the formal education system (Grade Prep). We strongly believe that children should not be rushed into school because they have reached a certain age. Further information can be obtained by reading ‘What’s The Hurry?’ by Kathy Walker- this book is available from our Parent Library.

If areas of your child’s development are identified by the teacher as a concern or requiring further exploration, the teacher will discuss this with you. Please do not be offended or concerned if your child’s teacher approaches you for this discussion. A teacher will have your child’s best interests in mind if they consider your child might need to be considered for a second year of kinder. This process will generally occur in the first term. The teacher may advise deferment of your child’s kinder year based on the information they have gathered about your child and/or may ask parents for their permission for the Pre-School Field Officer to observe your child and provide additional information to help make this decision.

Obviously, the final decision to defer or continue with the kinder year is made by the parents and the kinder teacher will work in collaboration with parents to assist the child on their journey to the prep year. Due to timelines set by the Department of Education and Early Childhood Development, the decision to defer needs to occur early in the year. Paperwork will need to be completed before the end of Term 2 for deferment or during Term 3 is your child is approved for a second year of funded kindergarten.

More information regarding deferring or repeating will be provided to you during the year. However please speak to your kindergarten teacher ASAP if you have any concerns or questions regarding your child’s readiness for school.

When is my child ready to attend Kindergarten or School?