Big School Tot: the year before school
Getting ready for big school
The early years build the foundations for a child’s future. In the year before school, our Big School Tot program nurtures curiosity, confidence and a love of learning, so your child starts kindergarten ready to thrive.
An early literacy program from Macquarie University
PreLit is a skills-based early literacy program for preschool children in the year before school, established by Macquarie University. It sits alongside our play-based learning and gives our teachers the tools to teach pre-literacy skills in a fun, engaging way.
Children take part in a PreLit session every day, in small groups.
Ready in every way, not just reading
Early literacy
Sounds, rhymes, letters and a love of books.
Social skills
Taking turns, listening in a group and making friends.
Wellbeing
Managing feelings, resilience and trying new things.
Independence
Unpacking a lunchbox, managing belongings and asking for help.
Close links with local schools
We keep close links with the surrounding primary schools to make the move to kindergarten smooth.
Before your child starts school, we share a transition statement with their new teacher and encourage participation in school visits.
“I am beyond grateful to have a supportive and nurturing team that has guided me from my first sentences to the start of a new chapter in my story.”
AllyShellyTots child in 2009, educator since 2021
Read Ally’s story
Free download
Is my child ready for kindergarten? A checklist for parents
A two-page guide to the skills that help children settle into school, with simple ideas to practise at home.
Questions about starting school
All FAQsWhen can my child start kindergarten in NSW?
Children in NSW can start kindergarten at the beginning of the school year if they turn 5 on or before 31 July that year, and must be enrolled by their 6th birthday.
How do I know if my child is ready?
Our teachers will talk with you during the year about your child’s progress, and you can use our checklist as a guide.
Does my child need to attend a set number of days for PreLit?
No. As best practice, we offer a PreLit session every day for children starting school the following year.