Getting ready for school

O If your child attends preschool or a long day care centre, talk to staff about their transition to school.

O Attend a school orientation or transition to school program and make sure you have the school’s phone number.

O Take your child to your local community health nurse or doctor for a health check and make sure their immunisations are up to date before school starts.

O If your child takes medication or has an allergy, a medical condition or additional needs, inform the school as early as possible and make an appointment to speak with school staff.

O Fill in a travel pass application if this applies to you. If needed phone 1800 227 774 or 02 9891 8900 or go to transport.nsw.gov.au/ssts.

O Organise outside of school hours care.

O Practise safely walking or travelling to and from school.

O Continue reading to your child.

O Connect with your school and other parents on Facebook and Twitter.

Budgeting for new costs
Schools usually provide most things Kindergarten students will use in the classroom, but starting school may require new items such as uniforms and school shoes. It may be helpful to check with your school so you can budget for the items your child will need.

Uniforms
Your child’s school will tell you about the school uniform items and where to buy them. There is usually a summer, a winter and a sports uniform. The school can tell you which shops supply the uniform or the material to make it, and many schools run a clothing pool where uniform items are donated after children have outgrown them.

Financial contributions
Schools may ask you for a voluntary contribution to enhance educational and sporting programs. You may be asked to pay for excursions to enhance your child’s classroom learning.

Financial assistance
If you are having any difficulty with the costs of schooling, you can make an appointment with the principal to discuss your situation. You may be eligible for financial assistance.