Cohort Entry

The Kauri Park School Board have resolved to adopt a cohort entry policy for new entrants. This will take effect from Term 1, 2025.

How does cohort entry work?

New entrants start school in cohorts but only after they have turned five. There are two entry points per term, one on the first day of term, and one at a mid-point during a term (usually the Monday of the 6th week).

What are the benefits of cohort entry?

Cohort entry helps students to settle into school and learn routines quicker. The Education Review Office found the following benefits of cohort entry:

Supports the emotional wellbeing of young children as they start school in groups, sometimes with friends from early learning. For some children, this meant they felt like they belonged at school, were less anxious, and settled quickly into school routines.
Supports learning for new children as teachers can teach without the constant interruption of new students arriving any time during the year.
Helps whānau connect with other whānau and the school as school visits and activities can be scheduled so parents can come together in groups.
Helps schools to plan children’s transitions from early childhood to school, making the experience better for children and whānau.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can my child start before they have turned five?

Unfortunately not. Children in NZ can not start school until they turn five.

Can my child stay at ECE until they start school? Does this affect their funding?

Yes, your child is allowed to stay at ECE. This does not affect their funding. It is helpful for you to let your ECE provider know in advance that they school your child will be attending has a cohort entry policy for their planning purposes.

Will my child start as a Year 1 or a Year 0?

The Kauri Park School Board has resolved to change the Year 1 classification date to 30th April - where students beginning school prior to April will be classified as Year 1 by default and those that start after will be classified as Year 0 by default.