Moving to high school?
Starting high school is an exciting milestone for students and families. Moving from Year 6 to Year 7 can feel like a big change. We help every child feel confident and supported during the transition to high school. All parents and carers with a child in Year 6 at a NSW Primary school should complete an Expression of Interest (EOI) form by 27 March 2026.
Submit a Year 6 to 7 Expression of Interest (EOI)
If you do not submit an expression of interest by this date, you will need to apply to enrol your child directly with the high school. You can still apply to enrol in a non-local high school, and the school will consider your application. To apply to your local or non-local high school, visit the high school’s website and submit an online application through the ‘Enrol’ page. You can also ask the school for a paper application form.
Find out more in the Getting ready for high school guide.
Use the School Finder tool to explore and identify which school(s) you would like to express interest in for your child’s enrolment.
What to expect in high school
High school brings new experiences and routines, including:
- a larger school with more subjects, teachers and classrooms
- a timetable with different lessons each day
- moving between classrooms and carrying books and equipment
- more independence and responsibility for homework and study
- new friendships and opportunities to join activities and clubs.
Our transition program
Our Transition to High School program supports students moving from primary to secondary education through several key steps.
- We liaise closely with local high schools and arrange visits for students to become familiar with their new environment.
- One-on-one chats are held between primary staff and local high school head teachers to support individual students’ transitions, addressing any specific needs or concerns.
- Additionally, there is an annual High School Orientation Day in December, held simultaneously across all high schools, giving students a chance to experience a typical day and build confidence before starting secondary school. In 2026 this day falls on December 1st.
Contact us to learn more.
Year 7 orientation
High school orientation dates will be confirmed later in 2026.
Contact us for more information.
Students, parents and carers should join these sessions to learn about daily schedules, uniforms, lunches and communication.
Getting ready at home
You can help your child prepare by:
- talking positively about starting high school
- buying uniforms, shoes, stationery and school supplies
- checking if a laptop or device is needed
- practising their travel route to school
- making sure they know your phone number and emergency contacts
- encouraging routines such as packing their school bag
- encouraging them to check their timetable and school bell times the night before day 1 of Term 1.
For more advice, see the Getting ready for high school guide.