School Ready Program


Empowering Young Learners for a Bright Future!
At the Mini Macs School Ready Program, we believe a smooth transition into school is essential for your child's wellbeing and future success. Our unique program focuses on developing vital social skills, fostering relationships, and establishing a strong foundation in numeracy and literacy. With just 16 spots available, your child will receive personalised attention in a safe environment that promotes wellbeing and belonging, while also helping them become accustomed to school routines, for only $250 per child.
Open to all children regardless of enrolment at Catherine McAuley. However, if you do enrol your child at Catherine McAuley School, you'll receive $100 credit on your fees!
Is your child ready for school but not quite old enough? Eager to provide your child with a strong foundation? Select your child's commencement date below and click to book.

Semester 1 (SOLD OUT!)
For Reception Term 1 2026 commencements
Session 1 – 15/8/25
Session 2 – 22/8/25
Session 3 – 29/8/25
Session 4 – 5/9/25
Session 5 – 12/9/25
Session 6 – 19/9/25
Session 7 – 17/10/25
Session 8 – 24/10/25
Session 9 – 31/10/25
Session 10 – 7/11/25
Our regular Small Mercies transition program then starts from Friday 14th November.


Semester 2
For Reception Term 3 2026 commencements
Session 1 – 6/3/26
Session 2 – 13/3/26
Session 3 – 20/3/26
Session 4 – 27/3/26
Session 5 – 3/4/26
Session 6 – 1/5/26
Session 7 – 8/5/26
Session 8 – 15/5/26
Session 9 – 22/5/26
Session 10 – 29/5/26
Our regular Small Mercies transition program then starts from Friday 5th June.

Semester 1
For Reception Term 1 2027 commencements
Session 1 – 14/8/26
Session 2 – 21/8/26
Session 3 –28/8/26
Session 4 – 4/9/26
Session 5 – 11/9/26
Session 6 – 18/9/26
Session 7 – 16/10/26
Session 8 – 23/10/26
Session 9 – 30/10/26
Session 10 – 6/11/26
Our regular Small Mercies transition program then starts from Friday 13th November.

"Blake really enjoyed being involved in a classroom setting with other children. We have noticed a growth in her confidence around other children and engaging with them, as well as a big improvement in her numeracy skills. I would recommend the School Ready Program to others because it was a really good head start in the process of 'going to school'. She frequently came home excited to share what she had done after each lesson and was always asking when she gets to go back again."
- Liam, parent of Blake


Why Choose Mini Macs School Ready Program?
- Smooth Transition: We understand that a seamless entry into school is crucial for your child's wellbeing and future success.
- Social Skills Development: Our program emphasises building relationships and effective communication.
- Safe & Nurturing Environment: We create a supportive space where children feel a sense of belonging.
- Foundational Learning: We lay the groundwork in literacy and numeracy to set your child up for academic success.
- Getting Ready for School: Your child will learn the routines and expectations of school life.

Program Details
- Limited Availability: Only 16 spots available for personalised attention.
- Session Schedule: 10 sessions each semester on Fridays from 9am-12pm.
- Semester 1: For children eligible for a school start in Term 1
- Semester 2: For children eligible for a school start in Term 3
- Cost: $250, which includes all 10 sessions, resources and a Mini Macs T-shirt.
- Open Enrolment - Available to all children regardless of enrolment.
- If your child enrols at Catherine McAuley School, you'll receive $100 credit on your fees!



Meet our Facilitators
Led by a passionate and experienced team, our School Ready Program is guided by two exceptional educators:
-
Rebecca Philip – Assistant Principal, Teaching, Learning & Engagement
With extensive experience in early years education and curriculum leadership, Rebecca brings a deep understanding of how to best support young learners as they begin their school journey. Her focus is on creating engaging, structured, and nurturing experiences that help children feel confident and connected. -
Lisa Toloza – Mini Macs Program Co-ordinator
Lisa is the heart of our Mini Macs programs. With a warm, welcoming nature and a wealth of experience in early childhood development, she ensures each session is filled with playful learning, positive social interactions, and meaningful routines. Lisa builds strong relationships with both children and families, helping to create a safe, supportive environment for every child.
Together, Rebecca and Lisa create a program that not only prepares children academically and socially but also helps them feel truly excited and ready for their transition to school.

What's Involved?
Routines & Structured Activities
- Welcome Prayer & Singing
- Literacy & Numeracy Lessons
- Fruit Break
- Story Time
- Specialist Lessons
- Play & Crafts
What to bring in a backpack
- Labelled Hat
- Labelled Drink Bottle
- Healthy Snack
- Recess
- Change of clothes in case
- Wear your Mini Macs T-shirt provided
For any questions and/or queries, please call us on 8259 4700 or email minimacs@cms.catholic.edu.au
