Enrolments

1.  NEW ENTRANTS

STARTING SCHOOL

Children in New Zealand can begin school on or after their fifth birthday but must be enrolled by the time they turn six. Starting school is a significant milestone for both children and their families, and at Henley School we aim to make this transition smooth, positive and memorable

From Term 1 2026 we are introducing Cohort Entry for New Entrants. Children will begin school in small groups at set times during the year. This approach allows children to start with peers of a similar age, helping them form friendships, settle more quickly into routines, and experience their transition to school together. Parents also benefit from connecting with other families who are going through the same stage.

On enrolment we may require proof that your address is within the Henley School Zone. The School Zone may be viewed by clicking here.

You can learn more about the Ministry of Education’s guidelines for enrolling and starting school by clicking here.

Our Vision for Learners

At Henley School, we want children to be happy, confident, and curious learners. Our goals are to support children in:

• Developing strong foundations in reading, writing, and mathematics.

• Building self-discipline, resilience, and independence.

• Becoming socially confident and able to work alongside and support others.

• Showing tolerance, kindness, and respect for people from all backgrounds.

• Growing in all areas – physical, social, emotional, and intellectual. 

Education is a partnership. As parents, you have already laid the foundations for your child’s learning during their early years. At school, teachers will continue this journey, but your involvement and support remain vital. Together, home and school create the best possible environment for your child’s growth.

The Enrolment and Transition Process

If you wish to enrol your preschool child at Henley, we can place their name on our pre-enrolment list. Around six weeks before your child turns five, you will receive a phone call from Carolyn Wright, Deputy Principal. This call will confirm your child’s intended start date, their teacher, and when transition visits will begin. It is also an opportunity for you to share important information about your child and ask any questions you may have.

Following this, your child’s classroom teacher will contact you, and you’ll receive a letter with details about the transition visits. Typically, these visits occur over two weeks on Tuesdays and Thursdays before your child’s start date. The first three visits will be from 9.00-11.00am and the last visit from 9.00-1.00pm

These visits help children and their families become familiar with the classroom, routines, and school environment. During the final visit, you will complete formal enrolment forms and purchase the stationery pack. At this stage, we will also need to copy your child’s Birth Certificate (or passport) and Immunisation Certificate. If your address is within the Henley School zone, proof of residence may also be required.

Cohort Entry Dates for 2026

At Henley School, children starting as New Entrants will join one of the following Cohort Entry dates for 2026:

Term 1: 3 February or 9 March

Term 2: 20 April or 2 June

Term 3: 20 July or 24 August

Term 4: 12 October or 16 November

Preparing Your Child for School

• A positive attitude towards school is one of the best things your child can bring on their first day. You can support them by:

• Talking about school in a positive and exciting way.

• Encouraging independence (e.g. managing lunchboxes, putting on shoes, packing bags).

• Reading together daily and practising simple counting games.

• Giving them opportunities to play, share, and work with other children.

We want your child’s introduction to school life to be happy, safe, and successful. If any issues arise, please do not hesitate to speak with the class teacher or school leadership.

2.  CHILDREN TRANSFERRING FROM ANOTHER SCHOOL

Enquiries received from parents of children transferring from another school will be directed to the leader of the Syndicate their child will be in. An appointment can be made  with this person who can then answer further queries,  enrol the child and place them in the most appropriate classroom available to suit their needs.

Parents will be required to complete an enrolment form and are also legally required to provide evidence of their child's immunisation status. Please note that the Immunisation Certificate required by the school is a Certificate which is signed by your family doctor/practise nurse, certifying that your child has been immunised to five years old, we cannot use the schedule of immunisations which is a simple list of the vaccines given.