As today marks the start of February, so too does it signal the beginning of another school year, as Kiwi kids around the country head back to the classrooms this week.

This year a projected 61, 820 five-year-olds will begin their primary schooling for the first time – with 4150 of those expected to be from the Bay of Plenty. Altogether, a total of 753,000 students will be heading to school from Years 1 to 13.

This week, many Bay of Plenty students will be hitting the books again. Photo: File

Ministry of Education head of sector enablement and support Katrina Casey encourages parents to be prepared to support their little ones on this milestone moment. 'There are lots of things parents can do to help their children to achieve well at school. Ensuring there's a suitable space at home for homework is important, for example.

'And for older students tackling NCEA, this is a good time for parents to sit down with their kids and set some clear goals for the year ahead. What does your son or daughter want to achieve this year? Make a plan to check in with them regularly to see what support they need to help achieve their goals.”

If your child is starting at a new school, it helps to visit the school together so your child can feel comfortable with their new surroundings.

Make things easier by getting your child's uniform and backpack ready the night before – and remember a sunhat.

All the evidence shows that attending school regularly has a significantly positive impact on your child's learning and progress. Even a few days absence can result in your child falling behind.

For more handy hints and tips, visit ‘Education.govt.nz for Parents' at: parents.education.govt.nz/essential-information/news-stories/starting-or-heading-back-to-school