More than 56,300 children are due to start school in the Bay of Plenty from this week.
The school year has begun for some Western Bay schools, while others will host their first day back next week.
Of the 56,398 students beginning their school year, there are about 4230 five-year-oldswill being their primary schooling and 51,468 Year 1 - 13 students heading back to school.
Ministry of Education head of sector enablement and support Katrina Casey said there were a number of things parents can do to support their children to achieve well at school.
"They include providing a quiet space for homework and making time to listen to their school-related concerns. And remember, parents are able to phone the school anytime to make an appointment to discuss their child's progress," she said.
"For older students heading into NCEA, the start of the year is a great time to sit down with them and set some goals for the year ahead. Check in monthly on how progress is going."
