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.
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.
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.
Experienced staff
Hat and sunscreen
Outdoor play
Parking
Play-based learning
Public transport
Transition to school
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.
Highly respected for our high quality programs, KU's National Quality Standard Ratings far exceed the national average.
KU was established in 1895 and is the most experienced provider of early childhood education in Australia.
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.
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KU respectfully acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the many lands on which our services are delivered.
The contribution by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples to the education of young children existed long before our story began.
Proudly a not for profit and for purpose organisation
© KU Children’s Services 2024
Proudly a not for profit and for purpose organisation
© KU Children’s Services 2024
The service has a dedicated team of experienced early childhood teachers and educators who work with you to support your child’s learning and wellbeing.
As part of the service’s duty of care in minimising exposure to Ultraviolet Radiation (UVR) and promoting sun safe practices among children, families and staff, the service provides each child with a KU hat and sunscreen is administered by staff where possible 20 minutes before commencing outdoor play.
The service provides a natural outdoor environment designed as an active place for learning. We encourage children to develop an understanding about sustainability by exploring the natural world around them.
Parking for drop-off and pick-up is available.
Our high-quality play-based programs are based on current research and are planned by experienced and qualified early childhood staff. Through play, children learn the skills, knowledge, feelings and dispositions that provide a solid foundation for their life-long learning.
The service is accessible by public transport and is close to a train station and/or public buses.
The service offers a full preschool program and places a strong emphasis on programs that challenge and extend children’s abilities and confidence, aiding their transition to school.
