As any parent would know, the first day of school is often the most organised and prepared any family will be.

The shoes are shined, books packed in the clean school bag, lunches are often made the night before and the school uniform is clean and in the wardrobe ready for the week.

The first day of school is probably the only date children will wake up on time – a bundle of nerves and excitement as they prepare to join their class for the year.

Photos sent to The Examiner include bright smiles from the students and sometimes even happier smiles from the parents.

One of our favourite photos was of a dad following his three young children to the waiting car.

The white socks of the three children are bright and not yet falling down, the backpacks sit high on the shoulders, the girls' braids are perfect and the young boy is holding the hand of his older sister.  It’s a cute photo of three siblings.

But it’s dad jumping for joy like he is in a Toyota advertisement that makes the image resonate with any parent who sees the photo.

Everyone loves summer holidays, but sometimes that first day back to school brings a sigh of relief for many.

On a serious note, the first week back at school is a reminder for any motorist travelling near schools to obey the speed limits that are set to protect students.

While this warning is delivered at the start of every school term, you can nearly guarantee there will be someone speeding during school drop off or pick up.

The speeding may be inadvertent, so be alert, or for some it is deliberate. Travelling 50km/h or 60km/h in a school zone may get you to or from home about 10 seconds earlier, but that “saving” puts lives at risk. So don’t do it.

We wish all the students, teachers and parents a wonderful school year of learning and friendships.

Don’t forget to send us your photos to us, just follow the links at examiner.com.au