A kinder way to start school in Byron Bay

A FRESH wave of kindergarten students laced up their shoes and slung on oversized backpacks as they began their first day of school across the Byron Shire this week.

Among them were 48 children starting their primary school

journey in three kindergarten classes at Byron Bay Public School on Monday.

“It’s beautiful – it’s my favourite day of the year,” principal Mel Davis said. “We had a really gentle transition. The kindergarten students came a bit later than the other students. Parents and carers joined them in their classrooms until their children were ready for them to leave and then we had a morning tea for them.”

Davis said the school has a robust orientation and transition program, supported by strong relationships with local pre-schools.

“By the time they start we already feel like we know them quite well,” she said. “We’ve had a discussion with parents about everything they need to make their first day a success.

“Each kindergarten student has a year 6 buddy to help them through the first few weeks of the term and be someone they can touch base with in the playground throughout the year as part of our leadership program.”

In total, 450 students started at the school this week – a number that fluctuates year to year.

“We have had 37 new enrolments throughout the school in addition to the kindergarten students,” Davis said.

She said that Byron Bay Public, established in 1892, is a very creative school, with three student bands, two choirs, and an excellent

public speaking and student leadership program.

“We focus on not just academics but the creative, social and emotional wellbeing of students,” she said. “It’s a warm and caring school where all the students are really known, valued and cared for.”