When your child can start preschool

Your child is entitled to access 4 terms (1 year) of government preschool in the year before they start school.

Children who turn 4 years old:

• before 1 May: can start preschool at the beginning of the year
• between 1 May to 31 October: can start preschool in Term 3 (mid-year intake)
• after 31 October: can start preschool at the start of the following year

Regardless of whether your child starts at the beginning of the year, or through a mid-year intake, they will attend 4 terms of preschool.

If you’re unsure about the best time for your child to start preschool or feel your child may benefit from starting preschool later, talk to us about your options.

Universal 3-year-old preschool will be rolled out in government preschools in stages from 2026 to 2032, and will become available at our preschool from 2030.

Early entry

Aboriginal children and children who are or have been in care are eligible for 15 hours of preschool a week after they turn 3, continuing until they start school.

If you have a child with a disability or additional needs, they might be able to start preschool earlier if there are places available. Talk to us if this applies to you. Early entry to preschool does not guarantee early entry to school.

Enrolling your child

You can register your interest to enrol your child with us by using the preschool registration of interest form. A paperback version is also available from us, and can be located in the hanging boxes on our front Gate Entrance on Hender Avenue. Upon registration present for viewing: proof of child’s date of birth (birth certificate or passport), your child’s Australian immunisation record (up to date) and proof of your child’s residential address.

Try to register your interest by 30th of June, but you can do this any time during the year.

Priority will be given to children living in our catchment area. If you don’t live in our catchment area you should indicate at least 2 other preschool options on your form.

If we can offer your child a place with us we’ll send you an offer letter in term 3 for a Term 1 start date or Term 1 for a Term 3 start date. You can accept the offer by filling in and sending back the acceptance slip by the due date.

Before your child starts

We will contact you the term prior to your child’s preschool start date about orientation and transition sessions. Before your child starts preschool you will be offered 2 visits. This is an opportunity for both children and families to meet the staff, other children, ask questions and clarify any further information.