Moving to Australia is a big change for the whole family, and one of the biggest transitions for children is starting at a new school. So, I’ve put together some key points on how to help children adapt to school in Australia.
We moved to Australia before Master C was 3 years old, so the only ‘school’ he knew before moving was daycare while I worked in the UK. It took us a while to wrap our heads around the schooling system here with 5-day fortnights for kindy, primary years and beyond. But no matter what year your kids are in, helping them adapt to a new system can help them settle quicker and be happier too.
Whether you’ve already made the move or are still in the planning stages, helping your children settle into a new Australian school smoothly is a top priority. Here are my tips to make the transition to Australian schooling as easy as possible for your children.
How To Help Children Adapt to School In Australia
Talk to Your Child About Starting at a New School
Open communication is key. Talk to your child about their feelings, expectations, and any concerns they may have. Reassure them that it’s normal to feel nervous and excited at the same time. Let them know they will make new friends and that their teachers are there to help them settle in. If possible, and depending on their age, discuss their new school’s structure, curriculum, and daily routines so they have a better understanding of what to expect. Encourage them to ask questions and express their thoughts on going to a new school.
It can also help to role-play different scenarios they might encounter, such as introducing themselves to classmates or asking a teacher for help. If they have any worries, acknowledge their concerns and reassure them that they will soon become comfortable in their new surroundings.
Get to Know the New School
Familiarising yourself and your child with their new school before their first day can ease anxiety. If possible, visit the school in advance, check out the playground, and locate important areas like the classrooms, library, toilets, and canteen. Many schools have online resources, including virtual tours and handbooks, which can help ease first-day jitters. If you are unable to visit beforehand, look through the school’s website and social media pages to get a feel for its culture and community.
Find out about any orientation programs the school may offer and participate in them if available. Knowing the layout and daily schedule can help your child feel more prepared and reduce first-day nerves. Additionally, if your child requires specific learning support or has special needs, use this time to ensure the necessary accommodations are in place before they start.
Work Out Your New School Day Routine
Australian school schedules may be different from what your child is used to. Schools typically start around 8:30–9:00am and finish between 2:30–3:00pm. Private schools tend to start earlier, and finish later – hence longer school holiday periods over winter and summer. Most schools require students to wear specific uniforms, while others have a more relaxed dress code.
Practice the new routine before school actually starts, including wake-up times, breakfast, school drop-offs, and pick-ups. Make mornings as stress-free as possible by preparing lunches and organising school bags the night before. Set up a bedtime schedule that ensures your child gets enough sleep. A well-rested child will be better equipped to handle the emotional and mental demands of a new school environment.
Meet with the School
Arrange a meeting with the principal, teachers, or pastoral care staff before your child starts if you feel this would be helpful for your child. This allows you to discuss any concerns, ask questions about school policies, and understand how the school supports new students.
Ask about homework expectations, extracurricular activities, and support programs. If your child has specific learning needs, allergies, or medical conditions, ensure the school is aware and prepared to accommodate them. Schools in Australia often have a buddy system where a current student helps a new student settle in, so ask if this is an option.
Speak Positively About the New School
Your attitude towards the new school will influence how your child feels about it. Speak positively about the opportunities, facilities, and experiences they will have. Avoid comparing it negatively to their previous school, as this may create resistance or anxiety.
Highlight the exciting aspects, such as new friendships, different subjects, and extracurricular activities. If they seem hesitant, remind them of times when they successfully adapted to new situations in the past and reassure them that they will do well here too.
Read Books Together About Starting at a New School
There are plenty of children’s books that address the topic of starting a new school. Reading these together can help normalise the experience and provide reassurance. Some great options for younger kids include First Day by Andrew Daddo or Wombat Goes to School by Jackie French.
Books like these help children relate to characters who have faced similar experiences. After reading, talk about the story and how it applies to their own situation. Discussing what to expect can help alleviate fears and build their confidence.
Support Their Learning at Home
Different education systems mean your child may encounter new teaching methods and subjects. Be patient and support their learning at home by helping with homework, reading together, and engaging in educational activities that build their confidence.
Find out how subjects are taught in Australia, as there may be differences in terminology and teaching approaches compared to their previous school. If needed, consider online resources or tutoring to help bridge any gaps. Encouraging a positive attitude towards learning can boost their confidence and help them adjust academically.
Get Involved in the School Community
Joining the school’s parent groups or attending events can help you connect with other families and build a sense of community. Many schools have parent volunteer opportunities, which can be a great way to integrate into your child’s new environment.
Attending assemblies, parent-teacher meetings, and school fairs not only helps you stay informed but also shows your child that you are engaged in their schooling. Making connections with other parents can also provide valuable support as you navigate this transition. I’m still friends with other mums I met back when my son was in Year 1 and he’s now mid-way through high school!
Be Prepared for the First Day
Pack everything your child needs the night before—uniform, lunch, school bag, and any required paperwork. Ensure they get a good night’s sleep and have a stress-free morning on their first day.
Talk about what they can expect throughout the day and reassure them that they will be fine. Walk them to their classroom if allowed, or drop them off with a cheerful goodbye to help them start the day positively.
Pack Fun School Lunches
Australian schools often encourage healthy eating, and many have ‘nude food’ policies (no plastic packaging). Get creative with lunchbox ideas to make mealtimes enjoyable. Bento boxes, fresh fruit, and homemade muffins are always a hit.
Involve your child in choosing and preparing their lunches to make them more excited about eating at school. Having familiar snacks from home can also bring comfort on their first few days.
Meet Up with Other Families from Your Child’s Year
Try to arrange playdates or meetups with children from your child’s year group before they actually start school. If your child recognises a friendly face on the first day, it can make the transition much smoother.
Many schools have Facebook groups or WhatsApp chats for parents, which can be a great way to connect with other families. Encouraging friendships outside of school hours can help your child feel more settled and integrated.
Acknowledge & Talk About Their Emotions
Moving to a new school can bring up a mix of emotions. Encourage your child to talk about how they’re feeling, and let them know it’s okay to be nervous, excited, or even a little sad. Validate their emotions and remind them that settling in takes time.
Encourage them to express their feelings through drawing, writing, or simply talking. If they seem particularly anxious or withdrawn, keep an open dialogue and reassure them that their feelings are normal.
Starting at a new school in Australia is a big step, but with the right support, your child will soon feel at home. By preparing in advance, maintaining a positive attitude, and staying involved, you can help children adapt to school in Australia, and thrive in their new environment.
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