Preparatory Year

The Preparatory Year program is offered in all primary schools in this diocese. Prep is a full-time program and is the first year of compulsory schooling.

Learning in the Preparatory Year is the foundation of a child's cognitive, spiritual, emotional, social, creative and physical self. Through nurturing a love of learning and inquiry, children make meaningful relationships and connections with their world. (Policy Statement: Catholic Education Diocese of Rockhampton, Teaching and Learning, Learning in the Preparatory Year)

The Prep program provides a flexible learning environment with investigative, play-based and active learning experiences. Close partnerships with parents and care givers are fostered and promoted.

Children entering Prep are supported in their transition to school through processes that acknowledge and respond to the diversity of families and each individual's early learning experiences.

The Catholic Education Office actively promotes inclusive practices that support positive learning outcomes for children with additional needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

When can my child go to Prep?
To be eligible to enrol in Prep your child must turn 5 by 30 June in the year of attending Prep.

How do I enrol my child in Prep?
Enrolment in the Prep year is the same process that currently exists for diocesan primary schools. Contact the local principal or school office.

Are there any exceptions to the age limit?

Children who are younger than the prescribed age for Prep may be enrolled in Prep if:

• they turn 5 years by 31 July in the year of proposed attendance; and
• the principal is satisfied the child is ready for education in Prep, having regard to their attributes (including ability, aptitude, social and emotional competence, physical development, and level of knowledge and understanding).

The principal may also enrol a child in Prep who is younger than the prescribed age if the child:

• has previously started education that is equivalent to Prep in another state or country; and
• is considered ready for education in Prep, having regard to their attributes (including ability, aptitude, social and emotional competence, physical development, and level of knowledge and understanding).

A program is considered to be equivalent to Prep if it is full-time, school based, and has a defined curriculum delivered in the year prior to Year 1. There are no exceptions to these requirements.

Not all children who turn 5 years of age in July will be eligible for early entry to Prep. The child must also be considered by the principal to be ready for Prep education.