Applications open for free kinder

Kindergarten teacher Anni O'Brien teaches thre and four-year-old kindergarten program thanks to Surf Coast Shire Council. (Supplied)

Applications for free kindergarten programs will be open soon for Surf Coast Shire families.

Surf Coast Shire Council-run kindergarten three-year-old and four-year-old programs for 2024 enrolments will be accepted from Monday, April 10.

Kurrambee Myaring Kindergarten’s Anni O’Brien said she loved teaching three and four-year-old programs.

“There are so many benefits for a child to attend three-year-old kinder,” she said.

“It’s their first start in developing a love of learning, which they’ll carry with them for life.

“It also supports them to be able to build connections and to be okay saying goodbye to their families.”

Ms O’Brien said four-year-old programs offered 15 hours of learning across different session activities and models.

“All programs are based around the children’s interests, as they learn best with experiences that are of interest to them,” she said.

“We are able to support their early social development skills and ensure that these are well developed before they head off to school.

“We are able to work alongside them to develop other important skills that they need before they start school. It all happens in a fun and interactive way.

“Kinder also supports children to be able to follow routines and directions from other adults.”

Surf Coast Shire Council-operated kindergartens included Anglesea Kindergarten, Helen M Kininmonth Pre-School Winchelsea, Jan Juc Pre-School, Kurrambee Myaring Kindergarten in Torquay, Lorne Kindergarten and Torquay Kindergarten.

Families can apply for the free kindergarten program before Sunday, June 18, when first-round enrolments close. The application form will remain open for second and third-round offers.