Port Macquarie business owners Anthony Hopfe and Lili Chen were among the parents dropping off their children on Wednesday, February 5.

Their son, Justin started his first day at the school by following in the footsteps of an older brother in year six.

Mr Hopfe said arriving at the school gates this year is a bittersweet moment.

"It's a weird feeling because Justin is the last one of ours to go," he said.

"He's really happy to be going on and meeting his new friends. I'm a little apprehensive because I remember when he was born and the time has just gone, in a snap.

"It's scary how fast they grow up but it's part of life."

READ MORE: Brave boys and girls start school in Port Macquarie in 2018 - Photos

Justin began showing signs that he was ready to attend school in November last year, according to Mr Hopfe, a former teacher.

"He got to the point in November last year when he was ready for school and wanting to go. He's only turning five in April so he'll be one of the younger ones," he said.

"As a former teacher you see the signs of children being bored of the preschool environment and wanting to follow their older siblings. We can see the signs of him wanting to do things on his own.

"As a parent I don't want him to grow up, he's still my little baby and I want him to stay home a bit longer."

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