Preschool

What are KU’s preschool programs?

KU’s preschool programs are specialist play-based educational programs, designed exclusively for children in the years prior to school, typically 4 and 5 year olds.

In every KU centre, our preschool program is led by university qualified Early Childhood Teachers. The educational programs take a holistic approach to your child’s development, extending their competencies and skills as they prepare to make the transition to school.

KU’s specialist preschool programs are delivered in a range of settings including:

• Traditional preschools
  KU’s traditional preschools are centres that only enrol children of preschool age. Preschool operates four terms with preschool holidays in between, and a slightly shorter day, similar to primary schools. Children typically bring their own lunch. Traditional preschools are not eligible for Child Care Subsidy.

• Integrated preschool programs
  KU also offers preschool programs within each of our long day care centres. The preschool program is designed specifically and exclusively for the preschool age children, however provides families with the convenience of longer hours and meals included. Our integrated preschool programs are eligible for Child Care Subsidy, and families who meet the criteria may attract a fee subsidy.

Why are the preschool years so important?

Preschoolers are at a time in their lives where they are gaining independence and becoming more confident as individuals, and gaining a greater understanding of their role as citizens within the world.

The skills children develop in a KU preschool program become the foundation for lifelong learning, and in fact, can positively shape the way they approach learning for the rest of their lives.

What can you expect to see in a preschool program?

We encourage children to develop positive relationships and connections so that they begin to trust in their ability to take responsibility and challenge ideas.

Children are provided with the opportunity to engage in a wide variety of learning experiences and activities, including gardening, arts and crafts, music and movement, physical play, block building, sand and water play, science experiments, early numeracy activities such as counting and measurement, and early literacy activities such as reading, drawing and writing.

Other activities your child will experience include group games where children can take ownership and be leaders in their play. Children are also encouraged to engage in small group experiences that build on their capabilities and confidence, as well as with their educators in caring for their learning environment through sustainability practices and caring for each other.

Inclusion in preschool

KU’s Education Support Team supports KU centres with the inclusion of children with additional needs. This may include children with diagnosed disabilities, challenging behaviour or social and emotional difficulties, as well as supporting families and educators when they have concerns about a child’s development. The team of Education Support Managers have qualifications in Early Childhood Education and Teaching as well as postgraduate qualifications in Special Education or related fields. The Education Support Manager may visit the centre your child attends by direct request of the family, the centre, or as a part of general education support and may also liaise with therapists and other allied professionals.

What do families think?

“The preschool’s emphasis on learning through play, the nurturing environment and the sense of community has really helped my two children become respectful, caring and interesting little human beings, as well as giving them the space they need to be ready for school.” - KU John J Carroll Parent

“KU Wombarra loves its families and nurtures a true union between the preschool and the families who use it. There’s the KU Wombarra family, a welcoming, safe and caring entity made up of us all.” - KU Wombarra Parent