After a long holiday break, schools re-open this week for another year.
More than 780,000 new and returning students — with bags and books in tow, and ready to learn — will make their way past the school gates.
Most schools will stagger the start of their kindergarten pupils who will be introduced to their new surroundings with the help of their senior peers and teachers.
Parents can access the Education Department’s School A to Z website for handy tips on supporting their children in making the back-to-school transition.
There is advice on homework, educational games, and how to deal with bullying and depression.
Details: schoolatoz.nsw.edu.au or the back-to-school hotline 1300 738 338.
See our gallery of St George and Sutherland Shire pupils above, submitted by Leader readers, making the big step into the start of their education.