Kindergarten
Second round Kindergarten applications
are now open.
Apply Now
There are a number of kindergartens throughout the municipality, both Council-run and private, which offer your child the chance to learn and grow in a safe, happy environment.
Read on for information about Council-run programs, or contact another kindergarten for information about their services.
If you need to change or confirm your application, email us at centralapplication@surfcoast.vic.gov.au.
Koorie Kids Shine at kindergarten. All Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children who turn 3 or 4 years old by 30 April can attend kindergarten for up to 15 hours per week for free. Find out more on the Victorian Government's Education website.
Council-run kindergartens:
See a full list of kindergartens in the Surf Coast Shire
What is kindergarten?
Kindergarten (sometimes called four year old kinder) is for children aged between four and six years and it is an important step for your child before they are off to school. It helps build life skills through play in a safe and happy environment. Visit www.education.vic.gov.au to learn more about how kindergarten can benefit your child.
What is pre-kindergarten?
Pre-kindergarten (sometimes called three year old kinder) is for younger children (three to four years old) and provides a stepping stone from spending their days at home to four year old kindergarten.
What will my child learn at these programs?
Young children learn through play, and the kindergarten educators keep this in mind as they base their curriculum around their students’ knowledge, culture, abilities, ideas, interests and individual needs. The Victorian Early Learning Framework and the Early Years Learning Framework for Australia guide the program's development.
Fees and funding
Kindergartens have individual fee schedules. This schedule is based on location and cost of operation. Families applying for the kindergarten program are eligible for a fee subsidy and may be able to access the four year old program free of charge.
Some pre-kindergarten children may also be eligible for an Early Start kindergarten place. Please see the guidance on fee subsidy and Early Start listed in the Information for Families brochure or visit the State Government’s education and training webpage.