Starting Kindergarten
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Starting primary school is a big step for children and families. 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.
Read our Kindergarten Handbook for more detailed information regarding a strong start at Heaton Public School.
Before your child starts Kindergarten
Enrolment interview
Before your child begins, all families meet with our principal. This is a time to share:
- your child's interests and strengths
- 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 and information 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. We held our first parent information Term 2 2026. If you were unable to attend you can access the presentation here.
Transition to School
The Little Sprouts Transition Program consists of four sessions designed to support children in developing confidence, familiarity, and a positive connection to Heaton before starting Kindergarten.
Guided by the Department of Education’s transition to school principles, the program provides opportunities for children to become familiar with the school environment, routines, learning spaces, and key staff in a safe and supportive setting. Through a balance of structured learning experiences, play-based activities, and social interactions, children begin building relationships with peers and teachers while developing independence and a sense of belonging.
The program also supports families in feeling informed, connected, and confident about their child’s transition to school
Session Dates:
Thursday 13th August
Tuesday 22nd September
Wednesday 8th October
Monday 2nd November
Time: 9:10am-10:50 am
Location: Heaton PS Library
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.
Kindergarten Timetable
- 8:30 am Breakfast club
- 9:00 am Morning Session Sounds-Write phonics instruction, reading groups and writing lessons incorporating play-based learning.
- 10:50 am Play break 1
- 11:20am Recess eating time
- 11:30 am Middle session EAST Mathematics Explicit Teaching and/or CAPA, Science, HSIE, PDHPE (Fruit break at 12:40pm)
- 1:30 pm Play break 2
- 2:00 pm Lunch eating time
- 2:10 pm Afternoon session CAPA, Science, HSIE, PDHPE incorporating play-based learning
- 3:00 pm School ends
Kindergartens are walked to the Hall COLA for pick-up (options include parent handover, kiss and drop, walking to Janet street).
Kindergarten Social Story
Linked is the Heaton PS Kindergarten Social Story. This resource can be used to familiarise your child with daily school life.
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.
