Junior School - Frequently Asked Questions

How old should a student be to start Kindergarten?

Students should have turned five by July of the entry year. In exceptional cases a later birthday might be acceptable. However it is likely to be in the best interests of the student if they start school older rather than younger.

How many children are in each class?

• Maximum of 22 in Kindergarten and Year 1
• Maximum of 24 in Year 2.
• Maximum of 26 in Years 3 to 5

What do students learn?

Students participate in the NSW Board of Studies Curriculum in six Key Learning areas:

• English
• Mathematics
• Science and Technology
• Human Society and Its Environment (Christian Studies, French)
• Creative and Practical Arts (Visual Arts, Music, Drama)
• Personal Development, Health and Physical Education.

How long is the day?

The School day begins at 8.50am. Kindergarten students finish their day at 3.00pm.

All other students conclude at 3.20pm.

Before and After School care is available (user pays).

Do subject specialists teach students?

Students have talented specialist teachers for Music, French, Christian Studies and Computing. In some cases Art is also taught by a specialist teacher in the Art Room.

What happens in the enrolment process?

Prospective students and their parents will, upon receipt of the Application Fee be invited to meet with the Registrar. Once interviews have been conducted, places will be offered based on such criteria as readiness for school and prior and current family connections with St Columba Anglican School.

During October there will be an opportunity for the students and their parents to attend the Orientation Day to experience something of school life at SCAS.

We also offer "Preview Days" throughout the year to allow students and parents to visit our school to see us in action. These days are published in our school calendar and local papers and magazines or can be arranged for a day suitable for any visiting family.

How can you best prepare your child for starting Kindergarten?

• Share exciting adventures from your school days, Focus on the positive.
• Encourage play with other children and sharing of toys.
• Encourage your child to practise putting shoes on the correct feet.
• Ensure that your child can recognise their full name.
• If your child is ready to write their full name, ensure that it starts with a capital letter and proceeds with lower case letters.
• Promote concentration by expecting your child to persist with achievable tasks.
• Select good stories to read, encouraging your child to listen, to answer simple questions and predict endings.
• Encourage correct grammar in speech and discourage "baby talk".
• Encourage an interest in creative activities using scissors, pencils, paint, brushes, paste and a range of materials.
• Model and encourage correct pencil grip.
• Give your child some areas of responsibility at home and ensure that expectations are met and that praise is given for correct work.
• Let your child know how precious they are and that they are loved.