School Readiness Programs
At Fair Foundations, we are committed to helping families build firm foundations for a successful transition to school, and a strong start in life.
Big School, Big Minds
Helping your child feel ready and confident to start school
Starting primary school is a big step, and we’re here to make it easier for both children and their families.
Big School, Big Minds (BSBM) is a free school readiness program designed especially for children from culturally diverse backgrounds and their parents.
Through fun, hands-on activities, children build the social, emotional and learning skills they need for a confident start to kindergarten. Parents and carers are also supported with practical strategies to help make the transition to school a positive experience for everyone.
For children
20 group sessions
Children take part in 20 fun and engaging group sessions designed to help them feel confident and excited about starting school.
They’ll:
- Build early literacy and numeracy skills
- Strengthen speech, language and communication
- Develop focus, independence and classroom confidence
- Learn to follow instructions and daily routines
- Build friendship skills and learn to manage big feelings
The activities are playful, hands-on and age-appropriate, helping children grow across all areas of development in a supportive environment.
For parents and carers
3 small group sessions
You’ll be invited to tailored group sessions, including a follow-up “booster” session two months after the program ends.
These sessions offer practical, culturally sensitive strategies to help you:
- Support your child’s learning and development at home
- Understand and respond to their emotional needs
- Build your confidence and resilience as a parent
- Prepare for a smooth, positive transition to kindergarten
For you and your child together
1 joint parent-child session
Halfway through the program, you’ll join your child for a special joint session designed to bring learning into real life.
Together, you’ll:
- Take part in shared activities that support emotional regulation
- Learn simple strategies to support your child’s readiness for school
- Connect with other families who are preparing for the same transition
This session helps strengthen your bond with your child while reinforcing what they’re learning and gives you a shared experience to build on at home.
Why It Matters
Many families in Greater Western Sydney face unique challenges when preparing for school, from language barriers to limited access to early learning. Our Big School, Big Minds program is designed to respond to those needs with practical support, positive learning experiences and meaningful connection.
When children feel ready and families feel supported, the transition to school becomes something to look forward to. Big School, Big Minds helps build strong foundations for a positive and confident start to primary school, and a lifelong love of learning.
Want to learn more? Read our School Readiness Evaluation Report to see the impact of our programs and the difference they’re making for children and families.
What families say about our programs
“I just wanted to let you know how much I appreciate you ladies and all the work you both have put in with Benji. It’s so amazing how much better he is doing. You have put in so much effort to learn about Benji and what makes him comfortable, and it’s made such a difference. Seeing him so happy to go to his little class with you and staying in the classroom the whole time is amazing and now he is starting to interact with the other children more. It’s so nice to see Benji looking forward to coming to school.”
Ellenore
“I would recommend to other parents because I have seen a big improvement already and I think it’s very important.”
“It removes the stress of your child starting school.”
“[My son]’s more confident in reading, writing and talking. Once he started, it was a big help.”
“It was good for parents to come and also get some advice about how to deal with certain situations.”
Additional Resources
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The service is funded by The Smith Family through the Communities for Children program.
Ready to help your child feel confident about starting school?
Get in touch with our team to find out about upcoming Big School, Big Minds sessions and how we can support your child’s transition to primary school.