Applications for 2020 kindergarten registration open

Kindergarten is a play-based learning program that builds children’s confidence, enhances their social and language skills, expands their physical abilities and prepares them for schooling. In Cardinia Shire, Council provides a central registration service for both three-year-old and four-year-old community kindergarten programs offered in its facilities.

The four-year-old kindergarten program is partially funded by the Victorian Government for up to 15-hours per week for eligible children who are four years-old on or before 30 April in the year they attend kindergarten. Additionally, other subsidies may be available depending on different criteria.

The three-year-old kindergarten program is not currently government funded and usually only includes sessions up to six hours per week. To register in a three-year-old program the child needs to have turned three years old by the time they will start the program.

Council’s Acting General Manager Liveable Communities, Tracey Parker said the application process is all online using Council’s central registration portal, providing an easy, step-by-step process for parents.

“We understand kindergarten is an important step for families so we’ve worked hard to simplify the registration process as much as possible. Parents can easily submit registrations online through the kindergarten portal at kindergarten.cardinia.vic.gov.au,” Ms Parker said.

“Council’s website also provides parents with all the information they’ll need to prepare including information about the programs, key dates and the available community kindergartens.”

Research shows more time at kindergarten prepares children for success at school and has a positive impact later in life.

“Kindergarten is an essential part of social and personal development for children, as programs help them to develop their language skills, problem solving abilities, self-confidence and so much more,” Ms Parker said.

First round offers for four-year-old kindergarten will be emailed to parents from Monday 8 July 2019. Any registrations received after 5pm on Friday 28 June 2019 will be processed in later rounds and throughout the year as places become available or as required.

Cardinia Shire Council will email first round offers for families for the 2020 three-year-old kindergarten places from Monday 5 August 2019.

For more information about kindergarten registration, visit Council’s website at www.cardinia.vic.gov.au/kindergarten or call the Central Registration team on 1300 787 624.