Three-year old kinder in 2022

CHILDREN will be able to go to kindergarten for two years, thanks to new statewide three-year-old kindergarten programs.

As part of a Victorian Government investment, children can start kindergarten one year earlier, meaning an extra year of learning, playing and making friends.

Golden Square Kindergarten has announced it is currently taking enrolments for three year olds, with the program commencing in 2022.

Educational leader at the kinder Carol O’Bree welcomes the new program.

“We are really happy to be providing three-year-old kindergarten in 2022,” she said. “These children will have access to programs with qualified educators who will provide programming that suits the children’s needs and abilities.

“They will be able to access social and emotional experiences and learn to get along with other children.”

The centre will offer long day and short-day programs for three-year-old children, based on enrolments.

“At our centre we will be very flexible according to the numbers and children coming into the centre,” Ms O’Bree said.

“We will definitely be providing a long day program for three year olds because we have a long day program for our four year olds. We understand that working families need to have that before and after kinder care.

“We will also provide programs for three year olds that will suit people that don’t require long days, so shorter sessions.”

The Victorian Government issued a supporting grant of $910,000 to help the centre prepare for the three-year-old rollout, which Ms O’Bree said was really appreciated.

“As a stand-alone kindergarten it was really important,” she said. “We are using our funds to ensure our services will provide education for the future. Without the government funding we would not be able to provide enough buildings.”

Parents are encouraged to attend a tour of the centre and to visit Golden Square Kindergarten’s Facebook page for availabilities.