Kindergarten is a program for young children delivered by a qualified early childhood teacher two years before children start school. Kindergarten is not compulsory but is strongly recommended for all children. Research shows that attending kindergarten improves a child’s health and wellbeing, helps them develop strong social skills such as building relationships, developing confidence, developing listening and sharing skills, and encourages a love of learning.
To find out when your child will begin kindergarten, please use the Starting Age Calendar below. Your child must turn 3-years-old before 30 April in the year they attend 3-year-old kindergarten and turn 4-years-old before 30 April in the year they attend 4-year-old kindergarten.
If you are unsure if your child is ready, speak to a Maternal and Child Health Nurse.
Early Start Kindergarten (ESK) provides up to 15 hours of free (or low cost) kindergarten to eligible three-year-old children in a program offered by a qualified teacher.
Children are eligible for ESK if they are aged three by 30 April in the year they will be attending a kindergarten program, and;
If you believe your child may be eligible for ESK, please discuss this with your preferred kindergarten provider.
For more information about ESK please click here.