Building works to start at Belmont kinder

BUILDING work at a new kindergarten in Belmont will start early this year.

The new kinder next to Oberon Primary School in Dorothy Avenue will open in Term 1, 2026.

The new modular kinder will include at least two rooms and provide at least 118 kindergarten places for three- and four-year-old kindergarten programs.

Modular kindergartens are constructed off site in a factory, in sections known as modules, to take advantage of faster construction times that minimise disruptions.

Builders then assemble the modules on site before connecting utilities, completing outdoor play areas and landscaping grounds.

Positioning kindergartens on or close to schools supports children to get the most out of their early learning, makes drop-off more convenient for busy parents and carers, and helps with a smoother transition to primary school.

Geelong MP Christine Couzens visited Oberon Primary School last month to announce the new kinder.

“The future Oberon Primary School Kindergarten is one of 25 new kinders opening at or near government schools in 2026,” she said.

“These kinders will collectively deliver more than 3,200 kindergarten places for local children.

“The project responds to strong local demand for kindergarten in the Belmont area and will ensure local families have ongoing access to sessional kindergarten programs.”

The Victorian government says it has has delivered 60 new or expanded kindergartens on or near school sites since 2019, including at every new government primary school built since 2021.

“We’re delivering unprecedented investment in early childhood services so our children can get the most out of great local kindergartens,” Minister for Children Lizzie Blandthorn said.

“We’re proud to be funding early childhood infrastructure because we know how important the early years are in setting our kids up for the rest of their lives.”