Transition to high school
Starting high school is an exciting milestone for students and families. Moving from Year 6 to Year 7 can feel like a big change. We help every child feel confident and supported during the transition to high school.
Find out more in the Getting ready for high school guide.
What to expect in high school
High school brings new experiences and routines, including:
- a larger school with more subjects, teachers and classrooms
- a timetable with different lessons each day
- moving between classrooms and carrying books and equipment
- more independence and responsibility for homework and study
- new friendships and opportunities to join activities and clubs.
Orientation Booklet
Find out more about getting ready for high school. Download our Orientation Booklet.
Our transition program
We work closely with local primary schools to help students feel ready. Our transition to high school programs help Year 6 students get ready for Year 7. Activities include:
- orientation days
- parent information sessions and meet the teacher events
- subject tasters and classroom visits
- peer support activities with older students.
2025 High school transition calendar
Great Start program for students with a Special Ed enrolment.
Split into two groups:
- Thursday 23/10, 7/11 and 21/11 (9am - 12 noon) for MC students
- Thursday 30/10, 14/11 and 28/11 (9am - 12 noon) for IM students plus ED student
Students, parents and carers can join in some of these sessions to learn about daily schedules, uniforms, lunches and communication. If you need an interpreter, let us know.
Contact us to learn more.
My Callaghan experience
In the following video, Chelsea Young, one of our former students, shares her journey at our school, highlighting the exceptional academic and extracurricular opportunities that shaped her path to law school at UNSW.
She reflects on how the supportive environment and diverse programs not only fostered her academic growth but also encouraged her to explore her passions beyond the classroom.
Her story shows how a well-rounded education at Callaghan can prepare students for their future.
Aspire HPGE program
Interested in applying for our ASPIRE HPGE program for Year 7 2027? Visit our ASPIRE program page for information and application details.
Applications for the 2027 ASPIRE class close on Thursday, 2nd April 2026. ASPIRE interviews will take place in Term 2.
Ready to Enrol?
Head over to the enrolment page to check eligibility and requirements.
Have More Questions?
Get in touch.
School permission forms
Families of new students are required to complete a number of forms before your child commences at Waratah Campus.
Please complete each online form listed below relevant to your child. If you prefer, you may request a hard copy from our School Administration Office.
Permission to participate in local walking excursions - use this form to indicate parent/carer consent for your child to participate in local walking excursions within a 1km radius from the school.
Laptops for learning user agreement form - To allow your child to participate in the Laptops for Learning program, please read through this form with your child and ensure they understand their responsibilities under this agreement.
Extra-curricular Code of Conduct Agreement - this agreement must be signed before your child can represent the school in external events or competitions. Please ensure your child understands the expectations and responsibilities that come with representing our school.
Permission to Publish form - use this form to indicate parent/carer consent for the school to publish photo or video content of your child in school publications (online and print).
Prescribed Medications form - please complete this form if your child requires prescribed medication while at school or participating in a school activity.
Special Religious Education (SRE) participation form - use this form to indicate parent/carer consent for your child to participate in either Special Religious Education (SRE) or alternative activities provided by the school.
Permission for your child to view PG content at school form - use this form to indicate parent/carer consent for your child to view PG film content at school for educational purposes.
Permission to join Newcastle Regional Library network form - use this form to indicate parent/carer permission for the school to arrange membership of the Newcastle Regional Library network for your child. This membership will provide your child with access Studiosity, a free online homework assistance program, as well as Newcastle Library's range of eAudiobooks, eFilms and eMagazines.
School Opal card or travel pass application- use this form to apply for a School Opal card or travel pass for your child (if required).
Permission to Play Rugby League and/or Rugby Union - This form serves as a continuous permission note for rugby league or rugby union trials, training and games throughout your student's time at our school.