While a handful of schools in the region had their youngest pupils in class late last week, most schools held interviews and testing for the foundation pupils last week before they started their formal schooling together this week.

Warrenheip Primary School was "buzzing" as six of the school's seven new prep students - the largest intake in the memory of current staff members - had their first day in the classroom.

"There's a really nice feeling about the school and a lot of stuff happening," said principal Arthur Lane.

Mr Lane said a couple of preps were a little uncertain of their new surroundings, but by lunchtime were running around the playground with their peers.

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"It doesn't really take them long, especially in a little school like this, because other kids notice if someone hasn't got anybody to play with and make sure everyone is happy," he said.

The school has 33 pupils this year, it's largest school population in many years.