Parents and carers of children in kindergarten, years 1, 2 and 7 will now be allowed onto school grounds for the first-day drop-off.

Schools have been notified and will implement a COVID-safe plan to allow for adults to accompany their students in those age groups to their classroom doors.

Specific plans will be communicated to parents directly from the school.

"The first day of school is an incredibly important day, especially for those children starting kindergarten," said Sarah Mitchell, NSW minister for education.

"Parents and carers attending on day one and beyond are urged to follow COVID-safe practices, which include physical distancing, hygiene practices and not to mingle in or outside the school."

At the end of last year, restrictions were also eased to allow adults onto school grounds for specific purposes, including volunteering in the canteen or visiting the uniform shop.

Parents, staff and students will not be required to wear masks at the school, but masks must be worn by everyone aged 12 and over while on public transport.

Similarly, students aged 12 and over must comply with the Public Health Orders around masks at all other relevant locations within the community, and also during external school activities.

Some sporting carnivals, excursions, overnight camps and special events may be allowed to go ahead this term if schools as long as schools have COVID-safety plan in place.