Question 1

When will my child start school?

Accepted Answer

In New Zealand, children can start school on their fifth birthday.  However, children are not legally required to start school until they are six years old as some children, for many reasons, may benefit from additional time in ECE. Once your child has been enrolled and started school it is important that they attend every day.

At Campbells Bay School, we believe that children do best when they start alongside a small group who are all experiencing starting school together. We open two reception rooms each term, one at the beginning and another midway through the term, and we strongly encourage parents to start their children to align with the opening of these spaces.

Children can remain at ECE until their start date - they will continue to receive funding to attend ECE until they start school.

Details of your child’s start date/cohort will be provided when you complete the enrolment process.

Question 2

What is a reception space?

Accepted Answer

Research has shown that starting school in a small group rather than individually helps children build relationships with their peers, reducing any anxiety children may face when joining a bigger pre-established group.

The aim of a reception space is to support our newest students as they learn all about life here at CBS. It also offers an opportunity to get to know your child before they are placed in their first classroom in a warm and nurturing way.

Your child will remain in the reception space for a minimum of four weeks before transitioning into their first classroom. Our reception space is led by our experienced learning leader.

Question 3

What happens when they move out of the reception space?

Accepted Answer

Your child will remain in the reception space for a minimum of four weeks before transitioning into their first classroom. Before they transition, you will have an opportunity to sit down and meet with their reception teacher to discuss how they have settled and hear a little more about the next steps for them as they continue their first year at CBS.

During their time in the reception room teachers will be observing children and supporting them to make connections with others. When they move to their new classroom, the teacher will take these connections and friendships into consideration.

Question 4

What year level will my child be when they first start school?

Accepted Answer

Ministry guidelines suggest children born before 31st June can be classified as Year 1 when they start school and anyone born after this date would be classified as Year 0. At Campbells Bay School, we classify children born before 30th April as Year 1 and any child born after this date are classified as Year 0.  If a child is born before 30th April and their start date is after this date they are still classified as Year 1.

In special circumstances we may consider altering a child's classified year level.  Decisions regarding year levels in these circumstances are discussed with whānau to ensure the best decision is made for the child. The ultimate decision is made by the school based on the evidence in school.

Question 5

Can my child and I visit the school prior to their start date?

Accepted Answer

Your child will have two visits prior to their first day. The main purpose of these visits is to provide an opportunity for your child to experience the classroom with the support of their whānau. Parents are asked to come along to the visits, join in and learn about school.

During the first visit you will remain with your child in the classroom and participate in the fun that is starting school at CBS. While your children attend their second visit, we suggest that you return home or head out for a quick coffee with any of the other new parents.

Question 6

When will I know who my child's class teacher is?

Accepted Answer

You will be able to meet your child’s class teacher during the visit sessions. Once your child has started you are welcome to bring your child into the classroom every day and chat with the teacher. If you require a more formal or longer meeting, please speak to or email the teacher to make a time that suits you both.

Question 7

What are the standard school hours?

Accepted Answer

Our school day runs from 8.55am until 3pm in 3 blocks, with dedicated playtime and eating blocks, with a bell ringing to indicate the different breaks. Please make sure your child is dropped to class promptly at the start of day and collected at 3pm. Students are allowed into their classroom at the 8.30am bell, prior to this they must wait at the front of the school by the bike shed.

Question 8

Does the school offer before and after school care?

Accepted Answer

Yes, this is a service provided by an external provider called SKIDS. They operate out of our school hall. They operate both before school from 7.00am and after school until 6.00pm. You can find out more information on their website https://www.skids.co.nz/locations/campbells_bay/(https://www.skids.co.nz/locations/campbells_bay/)

Question 9

​Will my child have homework?

Accepted Answer

For young children we do not set specific homework, however we ask that you read with or to your children every evening. Language is incredibly important so we encourage you to share stories, play games together and engage in conversation. ​Here is a great document that explains how we teach reading at CBS.

Question 10

What should I give my child for lunch?

Accepted Answer

It is important your child has enough energy to last the day. We promote healthy food and drink options in school. Sandwiches, fruit and vegetables are all great brain food for your child. If your child brings big pieces of fruit in for snack time it is helpful if it is peeled/cut up. ​We also encourage your children to bring a water bottle that is refilled daily with fresh water.

Question 11

Does my child need a uniform?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can purchase the uniform from NZ Uniforms. There are multiple options for your child to choose from. They can wear any items from the uniform list, and can mix and match between the daily uniform and the sports uniform. It is most important your child is comfortable.

Question 12

When and where should I buy my child's stationery?

Accepted Answer

Pre-packed stationery is available to purchase online from Office Max throughout the year.  Alternatively you can download the requirements list and purchase it from an alternative stationery provider.

Question 13

Will my child have swimming lessons?

Accepted Answer

The focus for year one is on building confidence in the water. The school pool is open for school lessons during Terms 1 and 4. Year one swim in Term 4. This is led by professional swim instructors and is part of your annual aquatics fee.

Question 14

What should I do if my child has health issues?

Accepted Answer

Please ensure that you have informed us of any issues when you complete the enrolment form and provide any information you have to the school office. Please talk about medications/implications with the teacher, and bring any medications to the office so that they can be stored safely. If, at any time throughout the year, your contact details change or medical issues require updating, please contact the office immediately.

Question 15

How can I become involved in the school?

Accepted Answer

You may like to be a parent helper in class. This shows your child that you think school is a great place to be and that you value what happens there. We do require parents to be police vetted to partake in any volunteer work alongside our students. This includes in class help, school trips and supporting any sports or cultural teams. You can download a police vetting form here

Join our active and enthusiastic PTA. For further information please visit our PTA page via the button below.

School Office will reopen on Monday 2nd February 2026
9.00 - 3.00 pm

New Entrants FAQs