Cousins Lola Keane (5), who is starting kindergarten at Deniliquin South Public School, and Ruby Edwards (5), who will begin kindergarten at Deniliquin North Public School, are pictured ahead of the start of the new school year.
Photo by
Rebecca Flisher
Backpacks that look far too big, freshly pressed uniforms and carefully packed lunchboxes are all signs that another school year is about to begin across Deniliquin.
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This week marks an important milestone for many local families as children take their first steps into the classroom, bringing with them a mix of excitement, curiosity and just a hint of nervous anticipation.
For parents, it’s a moment filled with pride - and often a quiet emotional pause - as they watch their children begin a new chapter of independence.
Among those starting school are cousins Ruby Edwards and Lola Keane, both aged five, who are beginning kindergarten this year - although at different Deniliquin schools.
Ruby will attend Deniliquin North Public School, while Lola is heading to Deniliquin South Public School.
Ruby is looking forward to spending time with her “school buddy” Lotus, who is also set to be a school captain in 2026, while Lola is excited to find out who her teacher will be.
Joining them on the education ladder is Lola’s younger sister Daisy Keane, aged four, who is keen to “do all the things” as she starts preschool.
Their youngest sister Billie, aged one, will also begin a day of daycare next week.
It’s a February start for all NSW schools in 2026.
Eastern division schools - which include Mayrung and Blighty primary schools, returned to the classroom yesterday, while western division schools will commence on Monday, February 9.
Teachers have returned earlier for staff development days, and families are encouraged to check directly with their child’s school for any variations.
Term One will conclude on April 2, with Term Two resuming on Wednesday, April 22.
For families with children attending school across the border, Victorian government schools resumed on Wednesday, January 28.
Cousins Daisy Keane (4), who is starting preschool, Ruby Edwards (5), who will begin kindergarten at Deniliquin North Public School, and Lola Keane (5), who is starting kindergarten at Deniliquin South Public School, are pictured ahead of the new school year.
Photo by
Rebecca Flisher