KU Newcastle Supported Playgroups – Shortland Public School

KU NSP Shortland Public School childcare educators interacting with children
Address​
Shortland Public School, 360 Sandgate Rd
SHORTLAND NSW 2307
KU Newcastle Supported Playgroups – Shortland Public School, Shortland Public School, 360 Sandgate Rd, Shortland NSW 2307, Australia
Thursday 9:00am - 11:00am
Infants (Birth-2Y)Toddlers (2-3Y)Preschool (3-5Y)Preschool/Kindergarten (3-5Y)
Overview

KU Newcastle Supported Playgroups are focused on increasing families’ knowledge and confidence in supporting their children’s growth and development. We offer a range of engaging, play based learning activities in a respectful, culturally safe and friendly environment.

The program is run weekly in two hour sessions by KU’s qualified early childhood educators. We have regular visits by various community service providers and family and health therapists

KU Newcastle Supported Playgroups are proudly funded by the NSW Department of Communities and Justice.

About this service

Our program

Our program is designed to enhance the development and wellbeing of your child and to prepare them for their next educational setting.

Led by experienced educators, each session offers engaging, play-based activities that support growth and build confidence. We also provide resources on developmental milestones and guidance on fostering positive, nurturing interactions, helping you and your child enjoy meaningful learning experiences together.

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https://www.ku.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Newcastle-Jesmond-Playgroup-2.jpg
Building connections

KU Newcastle Supported Playgroups empower families to strengthen their social networks and community connections. Families can learn about various community services, receive support for referrals to health and community professionals, and get additional individual support when requested.

We create a safe and welcoming environment where families can bond, learn from each other, build friendships and create a supportive network.

Features

Experienced staff
Hat and sunscreen
Parking
Outdoor play
Public transport
Play-based learning
Transition to school

Our Team​

Katharine Staunton is the Coordinator of KU Newcastle Supported Playgroups. Katharine is a university qualified early childhood teacher with over 25 years’ experience working in the early childhood sector.

Katharine is a Marte Meo Practitioner and trained in the Circle of Security Program. Both these programs have strongly influenced Katharine in her practice in supporting children and their families’ social and emotional wellbeing and underpins her practice when working with children and their families. Katharine believes in providing a safe and supported environment where children and families can connect and form positive relationships.

Our team of experienced, qualified and friendly educators partner with families to nurture children’s learning and development. We respect diverse experiences and strive to provide a program that fosters growth, confidence and connection.

Why Choose KU

Leader in quality

Highly respected for our high quality programs, KU's National Quality Standard Ratings far exceed the national average.

Most experienced

KU was established in 1895 and is the most experienced provider of early childhood education in Australia.

Brilliant staff

As an Employer of Choice for 9 years running and certified Great Place to Work, we attract the best and brightest staff who stay with KU for longer.

Family testimonials

KU Newcastle Supported Playgroups parent
KU early educators are always providing activities and resources to allow the children to learn through play.

KU Newcastle Supported Playgroups parent
This playgroup, with the support from the educators, has allowed myself to gain confidence and be the best parent I can for my child.

Other KU Services nearby

University of Newcastle, University Drive
CALLAGHAN NSW 2308
Monday to Friday 7:30am - 6:00pm
Infants (Birth-2Y)Toddlers (2-3Y)Preschool (3-5Y)Preschool/Kindergarten (3-5Y)
University of Newcastle, University Drive
CALLAGHAN NSW 2308
Monday to Friday 7:30am - 6:00pm
Infants (Birth-2Y)Toddlers (2-3Y)Preschool (3-5Y)Preschool/Kindergarten (3-5Y)
Jesmond Neighbourhood Centre, 44 Mordue Parade
JESMOND NSW 2299
Tuesday & Wednesday 10:00am - 12:00pm
Infants (Birth-2Y)Toddlers (2-3Y)Preschool (3-5Y)Preschool/Kindergarten (3-5Y)