At Holy Spirit Primary School New Farm, Prep is more than the first year of formal education, it's the beginning of a lifelong journey of learning, faith, and belonging.
As a former Prep teacher, Holy Spirit Primary School New Farm Principal Bianca Murphy is passionate about ensuring her new students and their families have a positive start to school.
Building a strong foundation
“Prep is the foundation, not just for early literacy, but for the holistic journey," Bianca said.
“We focus on the spiritual, academic, social, and emotional development of every child, helping them see themselves as successful learners, while feeling supported and celebrated for who they are."
The foundational early years are where children discover not only their academic potential but also their identity as learners in a nurturing Catholic environment.
For many families, these early years are their very first step into school life and so building relationships and creating a sense of belonging is central to Holy Spirit's approach.
“Every parent wants their child to feel included and valued," Bianca says.
“Our mercy values underpin everything we do and families often tell us there's a special feeling here at the school - a feeling of compassion and community that sets us apart."
Supporting a confident start
To support a smooth transition, Holy Spirit offers a comprehensive 'Come Watch Me Shine' program, which includes multiple orientation days, Early Learning Fun (ELF) days, and even a special Prep T-shirt that reflects the school's theme of shining bright.
“We walk alongside families every step of the way," Bianca said.
“These transition days help children build confidence and friendships before the first day, and parents can start forming connections too, which makes the whole experience less daunting."
“When a child confidently lets go of Mum or Dad's hand on the first day, we know we've done our job."
For Bianca, Prep is about more than academics, it's about shaping confident, compassionate learners in a community that celebrates diversity and inclusion.
“Our goal is simple - to create an environment where every child feels they belong, every family feels supported, and every student shines."
Bianca's top five tips to get ready for Prep
Do you have a child starting prep this year? Here are Bianca's top five tips to prepare as a family and support a confident transition to 'big school'.
- Practice using their lunch box and help them to identify what's for morning tea and what 's for lunch.
- Get school shoes with Velcro, unless they can tie their own laces!
- Teach your child to recognise their own name, on their water bottle or hat, to build independence.
- Help your child to learn how to dress themselves.
- Have fun and enjoy your baby! Our amazing Prep teachers teach them all of the literacy and numeracy so enjoy them and treasure them as they grow up so quickly.