Review of Transition from Home to School

Abstract

This paper is concerned with the transition of the child from home or preschool to the formal school environment in Australia and New Zealand. The entry age of children into school, procedures for enrolment, and the roles of teachers and parents are highlighted. All but two States in Australia have a reception full-day year in school prior to Year 1, few States have a common starting age, and different States and school systems use a variety of procedures to enrol children. All systems have advantages and disadvantages for the child and the school administration, but the need for a sense of continuity to smooth the transition and the management of stress that stems from the child's changed environment and routines is emphasised.