From our Head of Junior School

Getting ready for Kindergarten!

Mrs Rachel Deck - Head of Junior School
Mrs Rachel Deck - Head of Junior School

It is with great excitement that we anticipate welcoming our new Kindergarten families to the Junior School community in 2027.

We look forward to partnering with your family and ensuring a joyful, confident and successful beginning to your child's schooling journey with us at Calderwood Christian School.

Important dates

Kindergarten Information Evening

We warmly invite all parents and carers to attend our Kindergarten Information Evening on Tuesday 20 October 2026 at 6pm, in the Junior School Library.

This evening will provide an opportunity to learn more about our Kindergarten program, meet key staff members, and gain valuable information about starting school at Calderwood Christian School.

Kindergarten Orientation Days

We will be holding two Kindergarten Orientation Days for our future Kindergarten students:

  • Tuesday, 10 November 2026 | 9:15am-12pm
  • Thursday, 12 November 2026 | 9:15am-12pm

Students are invited to attend one of these sessions only. There is no need to attend both orientation days.

Arrangements for students who are new to Calderwood

On arrival, students who are new to Calderwood will be greeted at the Calderwood marquee sign-in desk by our Registrar, Mrs Sharon Steyn, and our Head of Junior School, Mrs Rachel Deck.

Parents and carers are invited to walk with their child to meet the Kindergarten teaching team. We understand that separation can sometimes be challenging. These sessions are designed to provide a gentle and positive introduction to school, and our staff will be available to support children as they settle.

Once your child has settled, you are welcome to say your farewells and join Mr Darren Hutton our Principal in the Learning Hub to learn about our Association and how you can partner with us.

At midday, children can be collected from the Kiss and Go Zone.

New students only: Please indicate through this RSVP form which orientation session your child will attend.

Arrangements for existing Prep students

Students attending Orientation on their regular Prep Day will be escorted by our dedicated Prep staff to and from their Kindergarten experience. Prep students are welcome to wear comfortable clothing of their choice on the day.

If your child is not proceeding to Kindergarten at Calderwood next year, they will remain in Prep for the morning with the Prep staff and other Prep students.

What to bring

To help ensure a comfortable and enjoyable morning, please send your child with:

  • Comfortable clothes and joggers
  • A small backpack and a hat
  • A labelled water bottle
  • A light lunch packed in a lunch box along with fruit or vegetables for ‘Crunch & Sip’

Kindergarten Play Dates

To help students and families begin forming friendships and connections before starting school, we will be hosting two Kindergarten Play Dates in the Junior School playground:

  • Tuesday, 24 November 2026 | 4pm - 4:45pm
  • Thursday, 26 November 2026 | 4pm - 4:45pm

Parents and students are welcome to attend either or both play dates.