Some of Sutherland Shire’s youngest learners will benefit from funding being poured into five preschools.
A total of $69,000 has been invested in community preschools in the area, as part of the NSW government’s Quality Learning Environments program.
This program funds improvements to grounds and buildings, plus specialised educational programs for children.
Minister for Early Childhood Education Sarah Mitchell says the money will ease some of the pressure off preschools in ensuring children are getting access to top quality early childhood education.
“I know that often preschools have to rely on fundraising efforts to ensure their service is up-to-scratch physically, and to deliver programs that are more niche,” Ms Mitchell said.
“This funding will ensure all children have a positive early childhood education experience and actually really enjoy their time at preschool.”
Miranda MP Eleni Petinos says these latest grants will make a big difference.
“In this round of grants, funds have been allocated for specialised educational programs and practices like art classes, along with service enhancements such as playground renovations or new equipment,” Ms Petinos said.
The federal government is also supporting preschool education this year by extending the National Partnership. It will ensure almost 350,000 children in Australia have access to 15 hours of quality early learning a week, or 600 hours a year, in the year before school.
Every state and territory has now signed up deal to continue to deliver universal access to preschool throughout 2019.
National data shows 30 per cent of children are not attending for the 15 hours on offer. This increases to 35 per cent for vulnerable and disadvantaged children, and up to 41 per cent for Indigenous children.
GRANTS IN 2019:
- $15,000 for Miranda Kindergarten for an interior refurbishment.
- $15,000 for Jannali Pre-School Kindergarten to repair bike track and sand pit.
- $15,000 for Como Pre-school to create a natural sensory play space.
- $11,275.88 for Mayflower Pre-School Kindergarten to purchase outdoor shed and equipment.
- $13,546.15 for The Point Pre-School to create an art studio.