Transition to high school
Starting high school is an exciting milestone for students and families. Moving from Year 6 to Year 7 can feel like a big change. We help every child feel confident and supported during the transition to high school.
Find out more in the Getting ready for high school guide.
Our local high schools
Richmond High School
Address: 140 Lennox St, Richmond NSW 2753
Phone: 02 4578 1177
Events and information for 2027 students
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Richmond High School Year Adviser and Community Liaison Officer visit: Friday 27 February
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2026 Richmond High School Info Evening & Open Night: Wednesday 4 March
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Richmond Mini Lessons: Thursday 30 April
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Richmond High School Year Adviser and Deputy Principal Visit: Monday 4 May
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Applications for Year 7 2027 Extension Class
https://richmond-h.schools.nsw.gov.au/learning-and-support/year-7-extension-class
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AgSTEM Specialty Stream:
Round 1 applications close: Tuesday 21 July 2026 at 3pm.
To receive an enrolment package, please email centreofexcellenceinaged-h.admin@det.nsw.edu.au
Visit: Richmond Agricultural Centre
Newsletters:
Windsor High School
Address: Windsor Rd, McGraths Hill NSW 2756
Phone: 02 4587 7122
Newsletter:
Hawkesbury High School
Address: 1 Hibberts Ln, Freemans Reach NSW 2756
Phone: 02 4579 6800
Events and information for 2027 students:
- Orientation Day: Tuesday 1 December
Newsletter:
For Year 6 students currently attending a NSW Government School
Expressions of Interest have closed. Please apply directly to the high school of your choice.
Click the link for more information: Moving to high school
What to expect in high school
High school brings new experiences and routines, including:
- a larger school with more subjects, teachers and classrooms
- a timetable with different lessons each day
- moving between classrooms and carrying books and equipment
- more independence and responsibility for homework and study
- new friendships and opportunities to join activities and clubs.
Before your child starts Year 7
Enrolment interview
Before your child begins, families may be asked to meet with the High School principal. This is a time to share:
- medical conditions or allergies
- family circumstances that may affect your child’s start
- any learning or wellbeing needs.
We will also explain the supports our school provides, such as:
- support for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students through personalised learning pathways
- extra support for students learning English as an additional language or dialect (EAL/D)
- support for students with disability or other learning needs through inclusive education programs.
High school transition programs
Our local high schools help students feel ready. Their transition to high school programs helps Year 6 students get ready for Year 7. Activities may include:
- orientation days and school tours
- parent information sessions and meet the teacher events
- subject tasters and classroom visits
- peer support activities with older students.
Students, parents and carers can join these sessions to learn about daily schedules, uniforms, lunches and communication. If you need an interpreter, let the high school know.
Getting ready at home
You can help your child prepare by:
- talking positively about starting high school
- buying uniforms, shoes, stationery and school supplies
- checking if a laptop or device is needed
- practising their travel route to school
- making sure they know your phone number and emergency contacts
- encouraging routines such as packing their school bag
- encouraging them to check their timetable and school bell times the night before day 1 of Term 1.
For more advice, see the Getting ready for high school guide