Gordon kinder expected to open for 2026 school year

WORKS are underway to build a new two-room kindergarten adjacent to Gordon Primary School.

The centre being built on the corner of Dicker and Stanley streets, named Gordon Primary School Kindergarten, is set to accommodate 118 three-and-four-year-old early learners.

Ballarat and District Aboriginal Co-operative (BADAC) staff will run the kinder with an aim to deliver culturally safe and inclusive learning for all children.

Department of Education executive director Central Highlands Jen Winter was on site to represent Gordon Primary School at a sod-turning event last week, and said the project is on track for the first group of kinder learners to be in their classrooms by term one, 2026.

“We’re very excited, not only for the community but for all our local schools, whether they be catholic or government schools, to have a kindergarten here,” she said.

“Having a kindergarten here allows that wonderful transition for families and brings the community together in one precinct.

“There’s already a lot of interest in kindergarten enrolments through the VSBA (Victorian School Building Authority) website. Families have been contacted.

“With the growth in this area, we expect the kinder will be really well supported.”

BADAC kindergarten manager Bridget Buttacavoli said having a kinder based next to a school prepares children for a very smooth transition to prep.

“It’s going to be so beneficial for Gordon as a community,” she said.

Member for Eureka Michaela Settle said the new kinder means local families can access high-quality early learning without needing to travel out of the town.

“It’s exciting to see work beginning on this important project, and I look forward to coming back to see local children enjoying their new spaces once it’s complete,” she said.