What Is a School Readiness Assessment?

Preparing a child for formal schooling is an exciting milestone, but it can also bring understandable questions and uncertainty for parents. One of the most helpful ways to understand whether a child is ready to thrive in Grade R or Grade 1 is through a School Readiness Assessment.

A School Readiness Assessment looks at the whole child to determine whether they are developmentally prepared to benefit from the structured learning environment of formal schooling. It is not a test of intelligence. It is a comprehensive look at the skills your child needs to cope confidently with the demands of the classroom.

What Does a School Readiness Assessment Include?

The assessment explores several key developmental areas:

Language skills

The ability to understand and use language, follow instructions, name objects, express needs, and engage meaningfully with early literacy tasks.

General or intellectual development

Problem solving, concept formation, early reasoning abilities, and the foundation for later academic learning.

Physical and motor development

Fine motor skills needed for writing and drawing, as well as gross motor skills like balance, coordination, and body awareness.

Emotional development

Self-regulation, confidence, independence, and how a child manages frustration, transitions, and new expectations.

Social development

Interactions with peers and adults, turn taking, sharing, play skills, and the ability to participate in a group.

These assessments are typically conducted with preschool-aged children who are 5 or 6 years old.

What Happens After the Assessment?

Once all the activities have been completed, a detailed and carefully interpreted report is compiled. This report outlines:

• your child’s strengths

• areas that may require support

• recommendations for home and school

• guidance on next steps

A parent feedback session then takes place so that the results can be explained clearly and sensitively. Parents have the opportunity to ask questions, explore concerns, and understand exactly how best to support their child’s learning journey.

Why Is School Readiness Important?

Children develop at different paces. A child who is not yet ready for formal schooling can easily become overwhelmed, discouraged, or anxious when faced with new academic demands. Identifying readiness early supports confidence, prevents unnecessary frustration, and helps ensure that the early school years are positive and successful.

A school readiness assessment gives parents a clear picture of where their child is developmentally and what can be done to strengthen any areas that still need support.

Supporting Your Child’s Start to School

If you are unsure whether your child is ready for Grade R or Grade 1, a readiness assessment can guide your decision with clarity and evidence. It offers reassurance, practical recommendations, and a deeper understanding of your child’s developmental profile.

For more information or to book an assessment, you are welcome to get in touch.