Prep is the first year of school and provides the foundation for your child's education. It is compulsory for Queensland children to undertake Prep prior to Year 1. Prep is a full-time program in primary schools and has a defined curriculum. Children attend Monday to Friday, generally from 9am to 3pm.
Children must be 5 by 30 June in the year they enrol.
Use the online calculator to see when your child can start Prep. Simply select your child's month and year of birth.
Enrolment age variations
Parents enrolling their child in school have the option of an early or delayed start. Enrolment age variations may be due to a child’s development and readiness, and could improve their ability to learn.
Read more about early and delayed entry to Prep and allocation of state education.
Delayed start to Prep
It is not compulsory for your child to attend the Prep year as soon as they are old enough—5 by 30 June in the year they enrol. You can delay their entry by 1 year if you feel they are not ready, but when they start school, they should still start in the Prep year. Your child must be enrolled in school when they turn compulsory schooling age (that is, at least 6 years and 6 months).
Parents who decide to delay their child’s start in Prep may choose to keep their child at home or in an early childhood education and care service. Parents may also apply to access an Early Childhood Development Program for children with disability through existing regional processes.
Students with disability
All children are entitled to attend the Prep Year at their local state school.
Schools provide support services to assist students with disability so they can be included in local Prep classes.
Find more information for students with disability, including information on the Disability Policy.
More information
Get advice on preparing your child for Prep, including early childhood education and care options, and how to get your child ready for their first day of school.
See how to enrol your child in school.
Related links