I believe it's next year the first year of Prep which they are being most strict on - which is ridiculus as they don't even have full classes but anyway. I believe usually you will be able to discuss whether your child is ready for yr 1 and they may repeat a year of prep however this year they are being very strict about not allowing a child who has or hasn't attempted preschool to go to prep they must go to year 1. they are also being particularly strict on the other end of the scale, ie we wnated DS to start prep next year but they are not allowing any ealy entry which is stupid, instead you are encouraged to apply next year for early entry into yr 1 meaning they miss out on prep altogether. i understand why they felt changes were needed but I think the whole system is stupid!