DD1 had a range of kids in her class from 4.5 years to 5.5 years, so a year's range in age when she started school. That was fine...until they got older. They're in year 4 this year and it has been quite difficult for the younger ones. EVen though some of them are ahead academically, it is very very obvious that they are younger socially. It is a really big jump at about the ages 9-11 and they grow up, but the younger ones seem to really lag. I have heard 2 mothers now say that starting their kids at 4 was something they wish they hadn't done, and both are considering repeating their kids, even though they are ok with the work. A big problem is with the boy/girl relationship, and some of the kids are just way more mature, but the younger ones are struggling.
I also though NSW was bringing in a new law that kids couldn't start school until they were 5? Maybe it was just talk. xox