school starting age in Australian Capital Territory
everything you need to know about starting school in Australian Capital Territory (ACT) — the first year of school is called Kindergarten, and children typically start at age 4 turning 5.
school entry — Kindergarten
first year of school
Kindergartenin Australian Capital Territory, the first year of primary school is called Kindergarten. children typically start at age 4 turning 5.
cutoff date
30 Aprilyour child must turn 5 by 30 April to start Kindergarten that year. school becomes compulsory at 6 years old.
pre-school / kinder program
program name
age: 3 turning 4 (turn 4 by 30 April)preschool (free early childhood program)
cutoff: 30 April (must turn 4 by 30 April for preschool)
free kinder?
yesyes, 15 hours/week of free preschool for 4 year olds
can I delay my child starting school?
yes — parents can delay Kindergarten by one year. discuss early or delayed entry with the school. children must be enrolled by the year they turn 6.
things to know about starting school in ACT
- •Children must turn 5 by 30 April to start Kindergarten that year.
- •The ACT uses the same cutoff date as Victoria (30 April).
- •Free preschool is available at most ACT public schools and some community providers.
source: ACT Education Directorate
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this guide is for informational purposes only. school starting ages and cutoff dates are based on publicly available information from ACT Education Directorate and were accurate at the time of writing. rules may change — always check the official source for the latest. mini mode is not affiliated with any government department.