Excited and nervous: A window into the ‘starting school’ journey

A group of children in school uniforms smiling brightly at the camera, showcasing their enthusiasm and camaraderie.
Starting school is a significant step for children and families. To better understand the experience from a child’s point of view, we spoke with two current Reception students at School of the Nativity.

“I was excited and nervous,” shared Amaliah, “but my teacher makes me happy and makes me laugh.” Now six months into her first year, Amaliah says her favourite things about school are maths, making new friends and learning about dolphins.

Ira, another Reception student, also felt nervous at the beginning. These days, she’s passionate about writing. “I like writing things that I don’t spell right and learning how to write them,” she explains. Like many young students, she enjoys the playground most during breaks—especially the swings.

When asked about the new Receptions starting in Term 3, Ira smiled: “I’m excited to make new friends… I want to say, ‘do you want to be my friend?’”

School of the Nativity offers an Extended Transition to School program for all Receptions. Reception teacher Mrs Lucinda King sees firsthand how the Nativity Stars Transition program builds confidence. “It’s a great way for students to form positive relationships with others within the Nativity community. They start to develop a sense of belonging and connectedness and quickly feel comfortable in their new surroundings, well before they begin their formal schooling.”

What does a Transition Day involve? Mrs King explains, “Transition activities are tailored around belonging, inclusiveness, getting to know one another, forming friendships and having fun.” Children explore the school, enjoy shared story time, outdoor play, hands-on learning, and connect with current staff and students.

The success of these sessions lies in helping children build confidence and independence through flexible, play-based experiences while learning school routines. “We also focus on the development of fine motor skills which are essential for handwriting, using scissors and correct pencil grip.”

School of the Nativity offers small Reception classes, ensuring every child is nurtured from the beginning and empowered to learn.

To find out more about the School of the Nativity’s Term 3 Reception intake or to enrol for Reception 2026, join a tour this August. Visit nativity.catholic.edu.au to book.

 

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