Can my child go to Prep? 

To be eligible to enrol in Prep your child must turn 5 by 30 June in the year of attendance in Prep.  

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Enrolment in Prep Year 

It is compulsory for all Queensland children to undertake full-time Prep Year, prior to commencing Year 1. The  changes have been made to establish the importance of Prep as the first year of schooling. 

Most parents enrol their child in Prep at the Prep-eligible age – in the year they turn f ive by 30 June. However; parents still retain flexibility to enrol their child in Prep the following year, in the year they turn six by 30 June, giving consideration to the child's developmental, behavioural and emotional readiness for schooling. 

The only exceptions to compulsory participation in Prep are where: 

• a child has undertaken education in another jurisdiction that is equivalent to Prep; 

• a child was registered for home education in the year prior to enrolment in a state or non-state school; or 

• the Principal is satisfied the child is ready to be enrolled in Year 1 taking into account the child's attributes. 
  

How will my child benefit from Prep at Good Samaritan? 

National and international research highlights the importance of quality fulltime early education and smooth transitions to formal schooling to aid children's long term educational outcomes. 

Research tells us that children learn best when they actively construct knowledge of their world around them. Therefore your child will be actively involved in an inquiry- based learning program where teachers and children work together to explore, observe, ask questions, discuss observations and seek answers about everyday experiences. On a daily basis your child will be developing their physical skills through activities such as climbing an obstacle course. They will also building the literacy skills through a variety of language activities including language games. 

An old adage states: “tell me and I forget, show me and I remember, involve me and I understand" – this is the essence of inquiry learning where your child actively constructs 

knowledge in a meaningful way. Prep programs that are child-centred and play based will improve your child's social and problem-solving skills and encourage them to have a greater interest in learning. 

How do I enrol my child in Prep? 

To enrol in prep please follow the same process for all enrolments. Complete the Application for E nrolment Form or contact the school office. 

What activities will my child be doing in a prep program? 

Some of the activities your child will be participating in : 

• actively making choices about what and how they learn 

• investigating and learning how to inquire about their interests 

• planning collaboratively with the teacher 

• participating in music and language experiences 

• investigating and playing independently, in pairs, small groups and as a class 

• participating in dramatic play to build an understanding of themselves and the world around them 

• drawing and painting to encourage oral language, reading and writing skills 

• constructing, using blocks and creating collages to develop early mathematical concepts and skills. 
  

Getting ready for Prep 

Ensuring your child starts their Prep journey at Good Samaritan Catholic College with excitement and readiness!  

Starting Prep is an exciting milestone for children and families alike. To help make this transition easier, we've provided some resources so your child feels confident starting Prep at Good Samaritan Catholic College. 

Things that will help me get ready to start Prep – Offers some practical tips to build your child's confidence and ease them into school life. 

Alphabet and Number Tracing Sheets – Printable resources which are designed to support early literacy and numeracy skills. 

• Alphabet Tracing Sheet  

• Number Tracing Sheet 
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Developing Fine Motor Skills – Developing fine motor skills is pivotal in learning as they facilitate engagement in activities, enhancing your child's cognitive development, concentration, and problem-solving abilities. Use these suggestions to practice your child's fine motor skills at home. 

Helping your child get ready for Prep can significantly boost their confidence and reduce any feelings of anxiety they may have about starting school. By familiarising them with new routines, practice early learning skills, and engaging in activities like those in our Prep resources, your child will feel more prepared and excited for this new adventure. A calm, confident start sets the foundation for a positive school experience. 

We look forward to welcoming you to our Good Samaritan community.