Ready For school
An Occupational Therapy School Readiness Program
Supporting children to build the skills, confidence and independence they need for a positive start to school.
Starting school is a big transition. Ready for School is a play-based Occupational Therapy program designed to help children develop the skills they need to participate confidently and successfully in the school environment.
The program focuses on the practical skills that support children to engage in classroom activities, follow routines, participate with peers and manage the demands of starting school.
who is the program designed for?
Ready for School may be helpful for children who are preparing to start school and would benefit from additional support with:
Fine motor and pre-writing skills
Pencil control and early handwriting skills
Attention and following instructions
Participating in group activities
Emotional and sensory regulation
Social participation and confidence
Independence with classroom routines
Developing confidence with school-based activities
The program is suitable for children who may need a little extra support to feel confident, capable and ready to learn.
All abilities welcome!
It’s not just about getting ready for school. It’s about practising what school actually feels like
skills for starting school
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Fine motor and pre-writing
Developing hand strength, coordination, scissor use, pencil control and the foundational skills needed for writing.
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Attention & Following instructions
Building the ability to listen, attend to activities, follow instructions and transition between tasks.
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Regulation & Sensory Skills
Developing strategies to manage emotions, sensory experiences and the demands of a busy classroom environment.
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Social participation
Building confidence participating alongside other children, sharing, taking turns and engaging in group activities.
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school routines & independence
Practising everyday skills and routines that support greater independence at school.
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confidence & participation
Helping children develop the confidence to have a go, participate and engage in learning.
Come & Try
One 60-minute ot group session
Not sure if Ready for School is right for your child?
The Come & Try session provides an opportunity for your child to experience the program in a relaxed, play-based environment while you learn more about how the program can support their transition to school.
The session also provides an opportunity for the OT to observe your child's participation and identify areas that may benefit from further support.
The come and try sessions are scheduled before the 4-week program begins so be sure to register your interest early.
Come & Try Sessions
essendon October 2026
4-Week Program
four 60-minute ot group sessions
The program consists of:
4 × 60-minute Occupational Therapy group sessions
The small group environment provides children with opportunities to practise school-readiness skills alongside their peers, while allowing the OT to observe and support each child's individual needs.
The program includes:
Four OT-led sessions
Individualised observation and support
Play-based activities targeting school-readiness skills
Opportunities to practise classroom routines and participation
Practical strategies to support your child's development
Individual OT exit report - outlining your child's strengths, what they may need support with, and practical ways to continue building their skills. This can be provided to the child’s school.
4-week program
Essendon November 2026
program & pricing
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$125
1 × 60-minute introductory trial session
Running October 2026
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$595
4 × 60-minute OT group program run across 4 weeks
Small groups
Individual OT exit report
Running November 2026
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$193.99 per hour (plus travel costs, non-face-to-face time)
Availability limited for new clients
Register your interest
Spaces are limited to ensure each child receives individualised support. Register now to avoid missing out.