Last year saw students across the state move from the classroom to their dining room tables or desks at home under the supervision of their parents.
But this week and next is when more than 15 classes full of prep students across Echuca-Moama start their first year of school.
But Echuca Primary School (208) prep teacher Caitlyn Lourey isn't letting the year that was get in the way of the future.
“We're really excited and hopefully we'll have a better year this year compared to the last,” Ms Lourey said.
“We've got 63 new preps starting this year and it's so amazing to see their smiling faces.”
She said it was not until they came through the door to start class on their first day that the teachers appreciated the students and being able to learn in the classroom.
“We did have these preps come a few days last year as part of their transition, but it's really magical seeing the wonder and excitement in their eyes,” she said.
Even though there had been some anxiety as students transitioned from kindergarten to school, Ms Lourey said it was about making them feel comfortable in their new surroundings.
“We just want to make sure the students know they're supported and we can build that important relationship between teachers and the kids,” she said.
“I like to make sure we give them a lot of fun activities here at school to make sure they know it's a great place to be.”
With restrictions easing around Victoria, Ms Lourey said the school calendar was starting to fill up with exciting events.
“We're finally able to do excursions and school camps now, which the students are really excited about,” she said.
“We have our first excursion to Moama next week and I think it's at the point where the kids don't mind where they go or what they do, as long as they can get out there and have fun.”
