Families across Armidale are being invited to give their children a confident and positive start to school through the Star Starter School Readiness Program, launching at Your Tutor in Armidale in January 2026.
Designed for children aged 4 to 5, the Star Starter Program supports young learners as they prepare for their transition into Kindergarten. Delivered in a warm, engaging environment, the program focuses on building confidence, independence and essential early learning skills through playful, structured activities.
Early Childhood Specialist and Primary Teacher, Paula Stephenson, who leads the program, says school readiness is about far more than recognising letters and numbers.
“School readiness is about so much more than early academics,” Paula explained. “At this age, children need support to build confidence, independence, emotional regulation and social skills. When children feel secure and capable, they’re far more ready to engage in learning and enjoy their first year of school.”
The four-day program, running from Tuesday 27 January to Friday 30 January 2026, will take place daily from 10.00am to 12.00pm at Your Tutor in Armidale, Level 1, 209–213 Beardy Street.
Across the four sessions, children will be supported in five key areas of development:
• Social and emotional skills, including cooperation, resilience and emotional regulation
• Communication and language, such as listening, following instructions and expressive language
• Early literacy and numeracy, including letter recognition, counting and shapes
• Physical readiness, focusing on fine and gross motor skills needed for writing, self-care and play
• Independence and school routines, such as packing bags, eating independently and managing transitions
Paula brings a wealth of experience to the program. A graduate of the University of New England, she is a fully trained Primary Teacher with a strong specialisation in early childhood education and has worked across a range of schools in Canberra.
She has also spent a decade working internationally, opening and operating a preschool in Botswana for children aged three to five.
“One of the most meaningful chapters of my career was opening and running a preschool in Botswana,” Paula said. “I operated the preschool for 10 years, which gave me deep insight into child development, community-centred education, and the importance of strong foundations in the early years. It reinforced that children everywhere thrive when learning is nurturing, play-based and responsive to their needs.”
Paula says her approach aligns closely with NSW Kindergarten expectations, while remaining developmentally appropriate and child-centred.
“My approach is always play-based and aligned with best practice,” she said. “I focus on strong relationships, consistent routines and meaningful learning experiences that nurture the whole child.”
Ultimately, the Star Starter Program aims to ensure children begin school feeling capable and excited about learning.
“My goal is for every child to begin school feeling confident, curious and excited to learn — ready to connect with others, manage their day, and succeed both socially and academically,” Paula said.
Families interested in enrolling or learning more about the Star Starter School Readiness Program can contact Your Tutor in Armidale by emailing yourtutorarmidale@outlook.com
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