Today was the first day at school for many five-year-olds in the Bay of Plenty.

The first day can bring tears and tantrums as children embark on the start of their long schooling career, however, Kimberley Biugos has a big smile on her face.

Kimberley Biugos, 5, models her new school bag and headdress after her first day at Matua Primary School.

She started at Matua Primary School this morning in Room 1 with Mrs Taylor.

She was equipped with her new, ‘typically over-sized for first entrants', purple school bag and a new drink bottle bought by Mum.

She was happy to go to school this morning she says.

'I didn't cry.

'I'm happy I'm going to school tomorrow.”

She played with her friend Natalie on the playground at lunchtime and enjoyed an apple, cookies, and some homemade jam sandwiches for lunch.

A highlight was definitely playing on the playground and with playdough with her new six friends.

Nana picked her and her seven-year-old sister up after school.

She was off home with no homework allocated yet.