Published on 07 October 2024
Construction of the Gannawarra’s newest kindergarten is on track for completion in time for the start of the 2025 education year.
To be located on the grounds of Kerang South Primary School, the Kerang South Kindergarten will support the rollout of the Pre-Prep and three-year-old kindergarten programs throughout Kerang and district from Term 1 2025.
Gannawarra Shire Council will manage the new kindergarten, adding to its programs run at Cohuna, Koondrook, Leitchville and the Kerang-based Gannawarra Shire Children’s Centre.
“The Victorian School Building Authority identified the need for an additional facility for Kerang to support the pre-Prep rollout. This is due to there being no more room to expand the Gannawarra Shire Children’s Centre to accommodate a pre-Prep program, with the centre’s Long Day Care program expected to be impacted without the addition of this new facility,” Council Chief Executive Officer, Geoff Rollinson said.
Construction of the new kindergarten will reach a key milestone in the coming weeks with the delivery of the modular building to the kindergarten site, based between Kerang South Primary School’s administration building and the Swan Hill-Bendigo railway line.
Work will occur over November to connect the two-room modular building to all utilities, as well as establish the kindergarten’s outdoor learning area and adjoining car park.
“Council looks forward to the completion of the Kerang South Kindergarten and welcoming its first intake of children in the first week of Term 1 2025,” Mr Rollinson said.
Meanwhile, Council continues to work with the State Government regarding the establishment of a government-owned early childhood learning and childcare centre at Cohuna, which the government announced would be developed and operating by 2027 or 2028.
“The confirmation of timing of the previously announced Cohuna Early Learning Centre will provide peace of mind for Cohuna and district families who require access to early years programs including long day care,” Mr Rollinson said.
NOTE: This publication is certified in accordance with Gannawarra Shire Council’s Governance Rules.
ABOVE: Foundations that will support the Kerang South Kindergarten modular buildings were installed during late September and early October.