Transition to high school

Starting high school is an exciting milestone for students and families. Moving from Year 6 to Year 7 can feel like a big change. We help every child feel confident and supported during the transition to high school.

Find out more in the Getting ready for high school guide.

What to expect in high school

High school brings new experiences and routines, including:

  • a larger school with more subjects, teachers and classrooms
  • a timetable with different lessons each day
  • moving between classrooms and carrying books and equipment
  • more independence and responsibility for homework and study
  • new friendships and opportunities to join activities and clubs.

Before your child starts Year 7

Before your child begins, families may be asked to meet with our Wellbeing Team. This is a time to share:

  • medical conditions or allergies
  • family circumstances that may affect your child’s start
  • any learning or wellbeing needs.

We will also explain the supports our school provides, such as:

  • support for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students through personalised learning pathways
  • extra support for students learning English as an additional language or dialect (EAL/D)
  • support for students with disability or other learning needs through inclusive education programs.

Learn more about additional learning support and enrolment requirements at our school.

Our transition program

We work closely with local primary schools to help students feel ready. Our transition to high school programs help Year 6 students get ready for Year 7.  Activities may include:

  • parent information sessions
  • subject taster lessons
  • orientation day.

Students, parents and carers can join these sessions to learn about daily schedules, uniforms, lunches and communication. If you need an interpreter, let us know.

Contact us to learn more.

Getting ready at home

You can help your child prepare by:

  • talking positively about starting high school
  • buying uniforms, shoes, stationery and school supplies
  • checking if a laptop or device is needed
  • practising their travel route to school
  • making sure they know your phone number and emergency contacts
  • encouraging routines such as packing their school bag
  • encouraging them to check their timetable and school bell times the night before day 1 of Term 1.

For more advice, see the Getting ready for high school guide.

Year 7 2027

Kotara High School will host a number of transition events for Year 6 students & their families during 2026.

Year 7 - 2027 Transition events

  • Parent Information Evening
    Tuesday 24 March 2026 at 6:00pm in the Multi-Purpose Centre (MPC)
    Meet the KHS Staff and learn about the events that support the transition from Year 6 to Year 7
  • Enrichment Class
    Application due: Friday 5 June 2026
    Placement Test: Thursday 25 June 2026
  • Taster Lessons
    Year 6 students will have the opportunity to participate in a variety of taster lessons
  • Orientation Day
    Tuesday 1 December 2026
  • Parent Information Evening
    Tuesday 1 December 2026

Enrichment Class

Nominations are now open for the Kotara High School Year 7 - 2027 Enrichment Class.

  • Application due: Friday 5 June 2026
  • Placement test: Thursday 25 June 2026
  • Enrichment Class application form - Application Form

Have a question for us?

Our friendly office team can help.

Contact us

Enrol

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Events

Find out about school events, celebrations and what’s coming up.