Schools across the Douglas Shire opened their gates this morning for the first day of term one 2020 and some excited little students were eager to start their very first day.

There were no nerves for prep student, Maika, who had big sister Jedda on hand to show him the way.

There was also excitement for prep student Marley, who bounded through the front gates of Port Douglas State School this morning.

Mum, Bridget, said her daughter was eager to start her very first day at school.

“It’s my first kid off to school and it’s all very exciting,” she said.

Port Douglas State School acting principal, Sharmaine Garwood, said there are around 250 students enrolled at the school this year with a number of late enrolments coming in over the last few days.

“We get a lot of new families moving to the area and we welcome our existing and new families back to the school for 2020 and are looking forward to a great year,” she said.

The school also welcomed five new teachers, including new arts and Japanese teachers.

She added that while many parents and students may feel anxious about the first day, most are just excited.

“We have a good transition into prep before they start so they have all been to the school multiple times and have met all the teachers beforehand.”

“It’s a great school community making everyone feel welcome.”