Kindergarten services
Kindergarten (or preschool) is an early years play-based program for children in the year before school.
In Victoria children can attend 3-year-old and 4-year-old kindergarten programs.
Programs are delivered by a qualified early childhood educator. All services are monitored by the Department of Education and Training to ensure all regulatory standards are maintained.
The benefits of kindergarten
Kindergarten is recommended for all children, as the experience provides the opportunity for your child to learn in an environment that:
- helps them develop language and listening skills
- improves their confidence and independence
- enhances physical and creative skills
- supports their desire to learn and discover
- increases their ability to work co-operatively with other children and adults
- helps them to develop social skills
- aids their transition to school.
How to choose a kinder
There are 27 kindergartens in Banyule. Council manages Audrey Brooks Memorial Preschool and Olympic Village Preschool, both in Heidelberg West. All other kindergartens are either managed by an Early Years Manager or a Committee of Management.
Each kindergarten offers different programs and hours. Kindergarten Open Day is held on the last Saturday of February each year, which is an opportunity to visit the kindergartens of interest. Or you can contact a kindergarten to arrange a visit. List of kindergartens in Banyule.
3-year-old kindergarten programs
To register your child in a 3-year-old program, you need to contact each kindergarten separately. Your child must have already turned 3 before starting at kindergarten. Currently there is no government subsidy for these sessions.
3-year old program at Audrey Brooks Memorial Preschool
Apply to the 3-year-old kindergarten program at Audrey Brooks Memorial Kindergarten(PDF, 80KB).
Contact us
For more information about child care, please contact our Early Years team on 9490 4222 or kindergartens@banyule.vic.gov.au.