As Australian school children are heading back to school this week, here are a few things to remember:
1. Children are legally required to be enrolled in school
By their 6th birthday, children must be enrolled in school or registered for home schooling. Children may go to school earlier (if they turn 5 years old on or before July 31 then 4 year olds may start school that year), but the mandatory age is 6 years old.
Children can enjoy free tuition at public schools run by the NSW government, unless they and/or their parents are temporary visa holders, in which case education fees may be charged.
If you are moving interstate or from overseas, it is worthwhile talking to the school principal about which year level they should enter.
2. School Zones
School going back means school zones are back in operation. The limit of 40km/hr around schools help protect children on their way to and from schools at the times and places where children are moving around in high numbers. The Term 1 school zones will be in effect on Monday to Friday, until Thursday 9 April when the school holidays will commence. They operate from 8am to 9.30am, and 2.30pm to 4pm.
3. Parenting Arrangements
If you and your ex-partner share custody of your child and have a parenting arrangement in place, the changeover may occur at school pick-up and drop-off. It is important to follow the parenting arrangement that you have agreed with the other parent, and give plenty of notice to the school and any relevant parties if there will be changes.
If your child is transitioning from pre-school to primary school, or from primary school to high school, your parenting plan may need to be updated. The location and/or times of pick-up and drop-off will likely have changed, and all parties, including the child, need to be appear of the altered arrangements.
If you would like to enquire about any of the issues raised above, please do not hesitate to contact Freedman and Gopalan by calling 8917 8700 or by filling out the enquiry box.