Starting primary school is an exciting time for children, parents and carers. In Victoria, the first year of primary school is called Foundation or Prep.

To start Foundation (Prep) in 2027, your child will need to turn 5 years old by 30 April 2027. School is compulsory for children who have turned 6 years old.

Victorian government primary schools follow the same timeline to enrol children starting Foundation (Prep) in 2027.

The timeline does not apply to government specialist schools. For information about enrolling in a government specialist school, you should read Enrolling in school.

If you are seeking to enrol your child for the 2026 school year, you should also read Enrolling in school and contact a government primary school directly.

Steps to enrol your child for the 2027 school year

If your child is starting Foundation (Prep) in 2027, you will be able to apply for enrolment at a Victorian government primary school from the start of Term 2, 2026 (Monday 20 April 2026).

What you need to do:

1. Visit the Find my School website to find your designated neighbourhood school (your local school) for 2027 and other nearby government schools.
2. Contact a government primary school to book an optional school tour and learn more about the school and the enrolment application process.
3. Download the Foundation (Prep) Enrolment Information Pack for Parents and Carers (released in Week 1, Term 2). This pack includes the application form.
4. The school may also provide you with a copy of the application form to complete or advise if they are using online enrolment.
5. Submit your enrolment application to the school by Friday 31 July 2026.
6. You will be notified of the outcome of your application between Monday 3 August and Friday 14 August 2026. The letter from the school will include the next steps. If you receive an enrolment offer, you should respond to the offer by Friday 28 August 2026.

Enrolment applications submitted after 31 July 2026 will be processed by the school as they are received.