What’s happening?
When it comes to starting Prep, a child’s first teacher can make all the difference. Star of the Sea Primary School in Cleveland understands this well, ensuring school life begins long before a child’s first day of Prep. On World Teachers’ Day, Friday 31 October, the school celebrates the dedicated educators who know their impact is not marked by a single day but built through relationships, familiarity, and trust.
Why it matters
Principal Lagi Aukusitino said the school’s approach is not about “a one-off orientation experience.” Instead, they offer “a series of meaningful touchpoints across the year,” each one designed to ease anxiety, build connection, and prepare both children and families for a smooth start to Prep.
Local Impact
Through these programs, Star of the Sea Primary School Cleveland builds belonging and confidence in both children and families, reflecting the dedication of teachers who prepare students for school and life.
Zoom In
Star of the Sea enjoys strong partnerships with local kindergartens, with children often visiting a year before they start Prep. They are invited to borrow books from the school library, participate in specialist lessons such as sport and music, and join in events like Book Week, NAIDOC Week, and Under Eights Week. The school also runs a Kindy Carnival in March featuring face painting, games, sporting activities, and take-home gift bags—helping young children feel part of a school community.
Star of the Sea recognises that it’s not just children who transition—parents do too. Events like Coffee Connect provide space for parents to meet teachers, ask questions, and form social networks within the school. Sessions like Get Set for Prep and Parent Information sessions offer guidance on daily routines, fine motor skills, Prep expectations, school values, and lunchbox tips. The Support Teacher Inclusive Education and Guidance Counsellor also attend Get Set for Prep visits to identify any additional support a child may need before starting school.
Zoom Out
“Future scholars and their families are invited to connect throughout the year at our Pop-Up Play Dates, where children enjoy play-based activities while parents meet and chat,” Ms Aukusitino said. “We also host a whole school transition day in December, where all our students from Prep to Year 6 meet their new teachers and classmates ahead of their first day in the new year.”
For Prep teachers like Leisa Henderson, “preparation is everything.” She said, “Pre-Preps are sent home with a library text to explore during the school holidays. When they return for their first day, the familiar storybook is used in class, building comfort and confidence as they settle into their new school environment. Prep is about belonging, feeling safe, and feeling ready to learn.”
What to look for next
The school will continue to nurture strong connections between teachers, children, and families through its community-focused Prep transition initiatives.
