Starting Kindergarten
Welcome to Kinder!
In the year your child is four years old on 1 January, you can enrol them to start Kindergarten that year.
In Tasmania, Kindergarten is the exciting first year of your child’s school life.
In Kindergarten children can play, develop confidence and independence. They can also build their social, language and numeracy skills.
Lots of information is available to help you and your child enjoy a happy and positive start to the early years of school. The Starting Kindergarten Booklet (PDF, 6.9MB) has information and ideas for families about what to expect in Kindergarten, enrolling and attending, getting ready, the first day, staying healthy and lots more.
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Kindergarten programs are part-time. Every school offers at least 15 hours per week, over two to three days
Twice a year, each child will take part in the Kindergarten Development Check. This is a tool that teachers use to recognise each child’s strengths and areas for improvement. For more information take a look at the Kindergarten Development Check – Information Sheet for Families (PDF 185KB)
Visit the Department for Education, Children and Young People school directory to contact your local primary school for more details.
Find out more about getting ready for school.
Can my child start Kindergarten early?
Your child may be able to start Kindergarten early if:
- they have been formally identified as gifted, or
- they have been enrolled in a school before in another state or territory.
If you believe your child is gifted, they may be able to start Kinder when they are 3 years and 6 months old on January 1.
Learn more about gifted children.
You can also contact the principal of your local school to discuss options.
