Beginning Prep in Queensland
Prep is the first year of formal schooling in Queensland and provides the foundation for your child's educational journey. In this important year, children develop early literacy and numeracy skills, build social confidence, establish positive learning habits and grow in independence.
At Western Cape College, our Prep program is aligned with the Australian Curriculum and is designed to nurture curiosity, resilience and a love of learning. We understand that starting school is a significant milestone for both children and families, and we are committed to ensuring the transition is smooth, supportive and positive.
Children must be 5 by 30 June in the year they start Prep. To determine when your child can commence their Preparatory year, use the
Prep Ready Reckoner.
Term 3 - Kindy to Prep Experience Days
In Term 3, our Kindy to Prep Experience Days provide future Preppies with an authentic glimpse into life at school.
Through strong collaboration with our three feeder kindergartens, we offer four engaging transition days designed to build confidence and familiarity before the formal transition process begins.
These sessions are thoughtfully aligned with whole-college events such as Book Week, Science Week and NAIDOC Week, allowing children to feel part of the wider College community.
During these visits, our future students:
- Explore our learning spaces and facilities
- Become familiar with key staff
- Participate in classroom routines
- Experience specialist lessons such as Physical Education and The Arts
These opportunities support a smooth and positive start to formal schooling by building relationships and reducing uncertainty.
Term 4 - Formal Transition Program and Parent Workshops
In Term 4, enrolled students participate in our structured Prep Transition Program, designed to ensure every child begins school feeling confident, secure and excited.
Three early-morning transition sessions are scheduled to minimise disruption to kindergarten programs and parent work commitments. During these sessions, students:
- Meet their Prep teacher
- Learn their class group and classroom location
- Practise school routines
- Build connections with peers
- Spend time becoming familiar with their classroom environment
At the same time, parents and carers attend a series of informative workshops that strengthen the home–school partnership and ensure families feel prepared for the year ahead.
Across the three sessions, families will:
- Understand College operations, including school fees, uniforms, recording absences, communication processes and setting up QParents.
- Explore Literacy in Prep at WCC, gaining insight into what we teach, how we teach it and practical ways to support early reading and writing at home.
- Prepare for Prep, with guidance from the Primary Principal on what to expect in the opening weeks of Prep and how to best support a smooth transition.
Together, our Term 3 and Term 4 transition processes ensure both students and families feel informed, connected and ready to begin their Prep journey with confidence.
For information about your child's Prep enrolment or any other queries, please contact the administration office on 07 4090 6444 or
admin@westerncapecollege.eq.edu.au.