We offer a number of programs and services to support your child’s early years learning.
Preschool
We invite you to join the governing council, which meets twice a term to make sure the centre runs smoothly. Read through what a governing council does and speak to us to register your interest.
When your child can start preschool
Your child is entitled to access 4 terms (1 year) of government preschool in the year before they start school.
We are introducing a mid-year intake into preschool. This means from 2023 children who turn 4:
- before 1 May are eligible to start preschool at the beginning of the year.
- on 1 May to 31 October can start preschool through the mid-year intake at the beginning of term 3 of that year.
Regardless of whether your child starts at the beginning of the year, or through a mid-year intake they will undertake 4 terms of preschool.
If your child turns 4 after 31 October they can start preschool at the beginning of the following year.
If you are uncertain about the best time for your child to start preschool or feel your child may benefit from starting preschool later, please talk to us about your options.
If your child is Aboriginal or under guardianship (in care) they are eligible for 12 hours of preschool after they turn 3. They will then be eligible for 15 hours per week of preschool in the year before they start school.
Early entry
If you have a child with disability or additional needs, they might be able to start preschool earlier if there are places available. Talk to us if this applies to you. Being given early entry to preschool does not guarantee early entry to school.
Enrolling your child
You can register your interest to enrol your child with us by using the preschool registration of interest form. This form is also available from us.
Try to register your interest by 30 June, but you can do this any time during the year.
Priority will be given to children living in our catchment area. If you don’t live in our catchment area you should indicate at least 2 other preschool options on your form.
At Kaurna Plains Children’s Centre, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children and children under the Guardianship of the Minister can enrol in the preschool program from 3 years of age. Kaurna Plains Children’s Centre preschool program can take up to 58 children and is often full. There is a waiting list for families. You should enrol as early as possible so that there is a position for your child when they turn 3.
You can enrol your child from birth onwards. Children younger than 3 years old can access programs like playgroup (that parents come to as well) before they start preschool.
To find out more and enrol your child please contact the centre via phone or pop in for a yarn.
Before your child starts
As Kaurna Plains Children's Centre is unique, with ongoing enrolments and individual start dates throughout the year, families will be contacted individually when their child can start the preschool program.
Fees
We ask you to contribute towards the cost of your child attending preschool.
Preschool contributions are $40 per term per child. If siblings are enrolled the cost is $50 a term per family. These contributions are optional.
We really appreciate contributions from families. We use them to buy things like educational toys, equipment and excursions for the kindergarten children.
How to pay
Contributions can be paid either online via bank transfer or in person at the centre by cash. There is a money box at the centre where children can donate a gold coin each session.
EFT information
BSB: 105121
Account Number: 070115540
Please put your child’s name in the description.
If you have any queries about payment, please talk to our director.
Preschool session times
Your child can attend preschool for up to 15 hours per week.
Children entering school the following year can access extra hours. These are provided as full days on Fridays for the first 5 weeks of each term. The director will confirm this with you for your child.
| Monday | Tuesday | Wednesday | Thursday | Friday |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8.45am to 2.45pm | – | – | 8.45am to 2.45pm | – |
| Monday | Tuesday | Wednesday | Thursday | Friday |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| – | 8.45am to 2.45pm | 8.45am to 2.45pm | – | – |
What to bring
Children need to bring these items each day:
- bag
- full change of clothes (including underwear, and nappies/pull-ups if needed)
- piece of fruit
- packed lunch (sandwich or healthy option).
We will provide:
- hat
- drink bottle
- healthy snacks.
Please write your child’s name on all their belongings.
Kindy t-shirts are available for sale. Please see staff to buy one.
What not to bring
Children should not bring these things:
- food containing nuts (some children have nut allergies that can be dangerous)
- unhealthy food or drink (lollies, chocolate, chips, fruit boxes, fizzy drinks)
- toys from home.
Playgroup
Playgroup is an interactive, fun opportunity for children and parents to play and learn together. Playgroups are usually supported by an early childhood professional who will give support, information and advice about children’s health, learning and development.
Playgroup is offered throughout the school terms. It is a chance for parents to learn and play with their child. Please contact the community development coordinator for details.