Information on this page is intended for parents who have confirmed enrolment for Reception at PNPS.
Welcome to Port Noarlunga Primary School’s Starting School Program. Our names are Kim Gwatking, Tayla Bayly, and Indy Daws. We are the current Reception teachers at Porties and are excited to think that when your child begins here, we may be their first teacher. You can read more about us below.
This page brings together the key information you may need before your child starts the program, including what to bring, dates and times, communication options, payments, common questions, and information about our Reception team.
About Starting School Program What the program is for
This program aims to introduce your child to our school so that when they officially begin enrolment they will feel safe and comfortable in the school environment as it will be familiar and full of lots of fun memories.
The program is play-based and introduces free play, singing, dancing, story time, outdoor play, and familiarization with the school environment and staff.
Children will also have opportunities to develop friendships with students already at the school and others who may be in their Reception class with them.
What to bring Essentials for each session
- Water bottle
- Healthy snack — fresh fruit or veggies are a great choice 😊
- Sun-safe hat (not required in Term 2)
Dates and times Program structure, session lengths, and intake dates
Starting School Program for January intake runs every Friday morning in Terms 3 and 4.
Starting School Program for Mid-Year intake runs every Friday morning in Term 2.
January Start- Term 3 session times are 9:00AM until 10:00AM (1 hour), starting in Week 5.
- Term 4 Weeks 1–2 session times are 9:00AM until 10:00AM (1 hour), incorporating introduction to school and people.
- Term 4 Weeks 3–5 session times are 9:00AM until 10:30AM (1.5 hours), incorporating introduction to school and people.
- Term 4 Weeks 6 and 8 session times are 9:00AM until 11:15AM (2.1 hours), incorporating a school-based routine within a classroom setting.
- Term 2 Weeks 1–5 session times are 9:00AM until 10:00AM (1 hour), incorporating introduction to school and people.
- Term 2 Weeks 7 & 8 session times are 9:00AM until 10:30AM (1.5 hours), incorporating introduction to school and people.
- Term 2 Weeks 9 & 10 session times are 9:00AM until 11:15AM (2.1 hours), incorporating a school-based routine within a classroom setting.
- Week 1: Friday, 1st May
- Week 2: Friday, 8th May
- Week 3: Friday, 15th May
- Week 4: Friday, 22nd May
- Week 5: Friday, 29th May
- Week 6: NO SESSION — Student Free Day Friday, 5th June
- Week 7: Friday, 12th June
- Week 8: Friday, 19th June
- Week 9: Friday, 26th June
- Week 10: Friday, 3rd July
First Day of School MYI 2026: Monday 20th July (Term 3)
Term 3 & 4 Dates 2026 (January 2027 start)- TBD
Communication How to contact the school about the program
Queries can be directed to Jason via:
- email (reply to your offer of enrolment)
- telephone 8382 2455
- message using the ClassDojo app
Fees & payments Cost and payment options
The Starting School Program is a once-off payment of $75 which covers all sessions.
Payments can be made at the Finance Office before 9:30am Monday–Thursday, or via the QKR! app.
Exact cash can be accepted at the front office during school times (no change available).
Download the QKR! app (officially made by MasterCard) for school payments: Apple or Android.
When creating your child’s profile on the QKR app, choose “SSP” as the classroom.
Common questions Frequently asked questions for families
Do parents stay for the sessions?
No, parents drop students at the designated time and return for pick-up. Parents cannot wait on school grounds.
Will my child be put into classes during these sessions?
No class allocation takes place. The sessions are held in one large group which may involve small clusters of different activities, depending on the day.
Where do we meet before sessions begin?
Families gather outside the doors of the Early Years Unit, between the school Canteen and sand-pit. Admin staff can direct you if required.
Do students wear uniform?
No. Casual clothes are fine for Starting School Program.
My child might need emergency medication. What is the process?
It is a requirement that medication be handed to Admin to hold for the duration of the session.
Any Health Care Action Plans already in place for kindy should be duplicated in preparation for school. These should be included with the medication. Please speak with Admin before sessions begin.
Both Admin and teachers in the session will be aware of any medical conditions and will have all contact information available.
Teachers Meet our Reception team
Our Reception Team
We are a dedicated team of educators at Port Noarlunga Primary School, united by our passion for supporting young learners as they embark on their educational journey. Collectively, we bring a wealth of experience from various teaching backgrounds, including early childhood education, primary education, and specialised subjects like Junior Primary Science.
Our team has been part of the Port Noarlunga Primary School community for several years, with experience ranging from two to ten years at the school. We have also taught in diverse settings, including the APY Lands and international locations, enriching our understanding and approach to education.
We are committed to fostering a nurturing and engaging environment for our Reception students. Our Starting School Program is a testament to our shared belief in the importance of play, belonging and connection in early education. We look forward to building strong relationships with you and your children as we work together to support their exciting transition to school for 2026.