Hunter Region Kindergarteners Eagerly Count Down to First Day of School
As the summer holidays draw to a close, thousands of students across New South Wales are preparing to return to classrooms this week. Among them are enthusiastic kindergarteners in the Hunter region, who are counting down the hours until they walk through the school gates for their very first day of big school.
Twins Ready to Join Older Brother at St James' Primary
Five-year-old twins Hannah and Eddie Tiedeman have been eagerly anticipating their start at St James' Primary School in Kotara South. Talking in perfect sync, the siblings expressed their excitement about beginning their educational journey on Wednesday, February 4.
"I'm so excited for big school," Hannah said with a bright smile.
The twins will be joining their older brother, who is in year 2 at the local Catholic school. Eddie shared his hopes for the year ahead, mentioning he looked forward to playing together, making bracelets, and drawing. Hannah specifically mentioned her desire to create Loom Band bracelets during craft time.
Their mother, Erin Tiedeman, acknowledged the emotional significance of this milestone. "It is a bit emotional too because they are our babies," she said. "They are very keen - we have had a countdown of how many days until they get to go to school."
Ms Tiedeman confirmed the family was well-prepared for the week ahead, with lunchbox contents already organized and everything ready for the big day. She noted that the twins have a strong support network, with many friends starting school alongside them and connections through their older brother's existing friendships.
Buddy System Eases Transition for New Students
At The Junction Public School, kindergarteners began their first day on Monday, February 2, supported by a thoughtful buddy system. Year 6 students were paired with the new starters to help them navigate their unfamiliar environment and settle into school life.
Kindergartener Lenny Bradley was particularly thrilled to discover he had not one, but two buddies assigned to him. "I am most excited for being with my buddies and playing with them," he said. "They play with me a lots and they help me do stuff."
His buddies, Mika Passier and Harper Kirkwood, remembered their own first days of school and how much having a buddy had helped them feel comfortable. Harper explained why he enjoyed being Lenny's buddy: "I like getting to try new things and having fun and getting to be buddies with cool people like Lenny." He added that Lenny was super funny and laughed a lot, making the experience enjoyable for everyone.
Lenny also expressed excitement about learning the alphabet, while his classmate Georgie McIntosh enjoyed drawing and making LEGO creations with her buddy Ruby Pollie. Georgie said she couldn't wait to make new friends and learn about numbers throughout the year.
Regional Schools Welcome New Generation of Learners
The excitement in the Hunter region reflects a broader trend across NSW as schools reopen their doors after the summer break. Educational institutions are implementing various support systems to ensure smooth transitions for young students beginning their formal education journey.
From organized buddy programs to carefully planned orientation activities, schools are creating welcoming environments where children can thrive academically and socially. The enthusiasm displayed by students like Hannah, Eddie, Lenny, and Georgie suggests a positive start to what promises to be an important year of growth and discovery.
As families across the region prepare for the return to routine, the shared anticipation among kindergarteners serves as a reminder of the fundamental joy of learning and the important role that community connections play in educational success.
