Catholic primary schools in the Townsville Diocese have welcomed the formal introduction of the Prep Year.

The PREP Year (or Preparatory Year) is being offered in all Catholic primary schools for children who turn five (5) years of age on or before June 30 in the year they wish to start Prep.

For example, children who turn five (5) years of age between 01 July 2007 - 30 June 2008, will be eligible to start Prep in 2008. Children who turn five (5) years of age between 01 July 2008 and 30 June 2009, will be eligible to start Prep in 2009. 

The Prep Year is a five-day-a-week, full school day program to help children become familiar with the school environment and school life.  

Uniforms are required in most schools, however please check these details during enrolment.

The Prep Year helps children develop:

• independence and social skills
• early literacy and numeracy skills
• imagination and creativity
• In Catholic schools, the Prep program also gives children the opportunity to develop their understandings of God

The Prep Year helps children develop a positive approach to learning and in doing so, makes the transition to Year 1 smoother.

Enrolments procedures are in line with normal school enrolment policies. Check with your preferred school for enrolment information.