Starting high school

At Peakhurst West Public School, we understand that the transition from primary school to high school is a significant milestone for students and their families. We are committed to ensuring our students feel confident, prepared and excited about the next stage of their learning journey. Our strong partnership with Georges River College Peakhurst Campus, our local high school, provides students with opportunities to become familiar with the high school environment well before they reach Year 6. Beginning in Year 4, students participate in visits and shared learning experiences that help them build connections with high school staff and students and develop a sense of familiarity and belonging.

Throughout Years 4–6, our students engage with the high school through a range of sporting, public speaking, debating, leadership and enrichment opportunities. These experiences allow students to use high school facilities, meet future teachers and peers, and gain an understanding of the routines and expectations of secondary school. In Year 6, this partnership is strengthened through dedicated transition and orientation activities, providing students with practical information and experiences to help them feel ready for Year 7. Where additional support is required, our staff work closely with high school staff, students and families to provide individualised transition planning. By building these connections early and maintaining strong partnerships with our local high school, we aim to make the move to secondary school a positive, supported and successful experience for every student.

Preparing students for high school

Transition days

Throughout Year 6, students participate in transition sessions designed to prepare them academically, socially and emotionally for high school. These sessions explore changes to routines, timetables, homework and expectations while developing skills in organisation, resilience, independence, building friendships and seeking help. Through partnerships with local high schools, students have opportunities to visit schools, meet staff and participate in orientation activities. Individualised transition support is also provided for students requiring additional assistance, in collaboration with families and receiving high schools.

Orientation sessions

Towards the end of Year 6, we provide dedicated high school orientation sessions that give students practical experience of what a typical high school day may look and feel like. Students practise reading and navigating a timetable, moving between classrooms for different subjects, managing books and equipment, responding to bell times and understanding the increased responsibility that comes with having multiple teachers and learning environments. These sessions provide a safe and familiar environment in which students can ask questions, practise new routines and build confidence before beginning Year 7.

Support for students

Our teachers and Learning and Support Team work closely with receiving high schools to ensure students with additional learning, wellbeing or disability support needs experience a smooth transition. Through early communication and planning, information about each student’s strengths, learning needs, adjustments and support strategies is shared to support their move into Year 7. Where appropriate, this may include individual transition meetings, additional school visits, personalised orientation opportunities and collaboration with families and specialists. This tailored approach ensures continuity of support, reduces uncertainty and helps students begin high school feeling supported and confident.

Building Independence for high school

At Peakhurst West Public School, preparation for high school begins well before students reach the end of Year 6. Throughout Years 5 and 6, teachers progressively build the skills, independence and learning habits students will need to confidently meet the expectations and increased workload of a secondary school setting. Students are supported to develop stronger organisation, time management, responsibility, study habits and self-advocacy, while becoming increasingly independent in managing their learning, homework, equipment and deadlines.

Supporting student wellbeing

We also recognise that the transition to high school can bring additional worry or uncertainty for some students. During the second half of Year 6, our Student Wellbeing Officer provides tailored weekly small-group transition sessions for students who may benefit from additional social or emotional support. These sessions focus on managing anxiety and change, developing

High school enrolment process

1. Read the instructions about the Expression of Interest process. This is provided to parents and carers in Term 1 of Year 6.

2. Submit an Expression of Interest online indicating your high school preferences for Year 7.

   • High schools review Expressions of Interest in order of preference. All eligible students are entitled to enrol at their local high school.
   • If a school can accommodate your preference, they will make an offer to enrol your child and provide you with an enrolment application to complete.
   • Parents and carers can visit online enrolment to see the status of your Expression of Interest.

3. Submit an enrolment application to the high school that has made the offer, within the specified time frame. During the online application, you can upload all documents to support your application.

4. High school placements are confirmed (during Term 3).

5. Attend orientation activities at the high school you have enrolled in (during Term 4).

Our partner high schools

Georges River College Peakhurst Campus

Georges River College Peakhurst Campus is a comprehensive, coeducational school catering for students in Years 7–10.

Visit their Starting high school page.

Georges River College Oatley Senior Campus

Georges River College Oatley Senior Campus is a comprehensive, coeducational school catering for students in Years 11–12.

Find your local school

Looking for the right school? Use the School Finder tool to search all public schools.

School Finder