2026 Foundation  Information 

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 2026, your child will need to turn 5 years old by 30 April 2026. 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 2026.

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

If you are seeking to enrol your child for the 2025 school year, you should also read enrolling in a school and contact a government primary school directly.

Steps to enrol your child for the 2026 school year

If your child is starting Foundation (Prep) in 2026, you will be able to apply for enrolment at a Victorian government primary school from the start of Term 2, 2025 (Tuesday 22 April 2025).

For further information please read the following: