Starting at Chapman Primary School - kindergarten to year 6
Welcome to Chapman Primary School
There are many emotions for children and families when starting at a new school. Feelings may vary between being excited and ready to go or nervous about a new environment. We are here to support everyone through their own transition journey.
There are many questions about starting at a new school whether this is your first time at big school, you have moved from across town, interstate of internationally. The ACT Education Directorate has a wealth of information about starting in an ACT Public School so many of your questions can be answered by visiting the website.
Below is some information relevant to the practices and procedures at Chapman Primary School which has been compiled from some regular questions from prospective parents. If you can't find your answer below please do not hesitate to contact us.
Starting in Kindergarten
Starting kindergarten can be a big time for children and even the whole family. Kindergarten is the first full time school entry level and a time where children begin to develop the skills to cope with a more structured approach to a longer day, in a larger classroom and play areas with more complicated buildings to navigate and many more, bigger children and adults around them.
This may be a first-time school experience, and arrangements may appear a little bewildering, you are not alone. Whether you are a first timer or an old hand starting kindergarten, whether you are excited or a little nervous, it is a very special occasion so enjoy the experience and remember to take photos!
ACT Education offers Starting School: A guide for families with information to help you and your child make the transition to big school and we will give you lots of advice and information as well.
Enrolment requirements for kindergarten
Children who attend the Chapman Preschool Program and who live in the schools PEA will not be required to lodge an online enrolment application. In May of the year your child attends preschool you will receive an Intention for Kindergarten slip to complete and return where you can indicate your intention to progress to Chapman Primary School or another school for kindergarten.
Families who attend our Preschool program but do not live in the schools PEA may be required to lodge an enrolment for kindergarten at their local or preferred school and will be assessed in accordance with the ACT Education Enrolment Policy.
Families who do not attend the Chapman Preschool Program will need to lodge an online enrolment application.
Transitioning Programs
Our school has developed a high standard of transition and orientation activities designed to deliver a supported, positive and successful transition program for all children.
Kindergarten Transition Program
Our kindergarten transition program takes place in term 4 with children visiting the kindergarten learning spaces, our Specialist Teaching Team visiting the preschool and the most exciting for our students, a visit to the school canteen to make a small purchase. Families are invited to a kindergarten information evening and will receive a school information package via email. Families new to the school in kindergarten will also be offered the opportunity to meet with our Early Education Leader to share any important information with us.
Transitioning to Chapman Primary School - Years 1-6
Children in kindergarten to year 5 have a 'Move it up' session at the end of term 4 where they visit their new classroom with their new class mates and where possible, meet their new classroom teacher. All students will bring home a note informing parents introducing the new teaching team and advising who the class teacher will be. Our first Move it up day was held in 2024 for the 2025 school year this was a positive experience for children, their families and our staff. Families who are joining Chapman Primary School for the first time will be offered an Enrolment Interview and school tour at this time also.
Frequently asked questions about starting at Chapman Primary School
Where do I get School Uniform?
Our school colours are Red tops and Black Bottoms. Logo'd shirts and jumpers, hats and school bags are available through the Chapman Primary School Uniform shop.
Skirts, skorts, shorts or pants can be purchased at one of the many retail outlets that sell school uniform generic clothing.
All students MUST have a sunsmart hat - a legionnaires style or wide brimmed hat. Our uniform shop stocks both styles of hats with the school logo.
What shoes should by child wear?
Shoes which are sturdy and safe to allow children to participate in an active day at school. Runners are ideal. Crocs and thongs, loose fitting or heeled shoes, or shoes with wheeled soles are not recommended at school.
What should my child bring to school?
Snacks and lunch and a refillable drink bottle for water. See Food and School for more information.
A School bag large enough to fit all that is needed for a day at school. The Uniform Shop does sell Chapman Primary School back packs, although any suitably sized back pack can be used.
Do we need to get any school stationery?
Each year level has a list of stationery items required to complete the year level learning. Lists for the current school year will be emailed to families as part of their information package email and can also be found on the school website under Notes Home for term 4 of the previous school year. While we recommend purchase from the schools chosen supplier, items can be sourced at any stationery outlet.
Equity Funding
The school can support families who are experiencing financial difficulty with the cost of school expenses including school uniform, and stationery items, excursion and other school costs. Please do not hesitate to talk to us if you need any support with expenses relating to starting at the school.
Other information about Chapman Primary School
Further information can be found on our website including A-Z Parent Information, or you are welcome to contact us to speak with our staff.