Kindergarten

Kindergarten and Pre-Prep provides children with a strong foundation for lifelong learning, development and wellbeing. Participating in a quality early learning program supports children to build the skills they need for a confident and successful start to school.

Attending kindergarten and Pre-Prep helps children to:

• Develop confidence, independence and a love of learning
• Build social skills, form friendships and learn to work with others
• Strengthen communication and language skills
• Learn to manage emotions, develop self-regulation and build resilience
• Explore their interests, creativity and problem-solving abilities

Research shows that participating in a quality kindergarten program over two years provides even greater benefits. Early learning experiences during this time support rapid brain development, with around 90% of a child’s brain developing before age five. Kindergarten helps children become more engaged, self-motivated learners and can be especially beneficial for those who may need additional support.

Kindergarten and Pre-Prep also plays an important role in preparing children for school. Regular participation supports children to develop routines, focus their attention and build the confidence needed for a smooth and successful transition to primary school.

Early Start Kindergarten provides eligible children with 15 hours of free kindergarten each week for the two years before starting school, regardless of which service they attend.

This program supports children to access high-quality early learning, helping to build confidence, social skills and a strong foundation for a successful transition to primary school.

To be eligible, children must turn three years old by 30 April in the year they start kindergarten and meet one of the following criteria:

• Be from a refugee or asylum seeker background
• Identify as Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander
• Have had contact with child protection services

Early Start Kindergarten is available across all kindergarten programs delivered by a qualified kindergarten teacher.

For more information CLICK HERE 

Free kindergarten is part of the State Government's ongoing reform to early years education in Victoria, to support every child to get the best start for the best life. 

For more information CLICK HERE

Kindergartens ran by Glenelg Shire Council

Casterton

Kathleen Millikan Centre 

The Kathleen Millikan Centre is an integrated early learning centre, based in Casterton, providing high quality care for children from 8 weeks to 12 years

Operating during Monday to Friday  

View our Philosophy HERE

Address: 1-7 Jackson St, Casterton, VIC 3311
Phone:  1300 453 635

Dartmoor

Dartmoor Children's Centre

Dartmoor Children’s Centre provides Kindergarten and Long Day Care for children aged 8 weeks to 5 years in a safe, nurturing rural environment with spacious outdoor areas.

Our experienced educators deliver play-based programs aligned with the Victorian Early Years Learning and Development Framework, supporting children’s confidence, communication, creativity and problem-solving skills.

We value strong partnerships with families and maintain close links with the local primary school to support a smooth transition to school.

Operating during Victoria School Terms Tuesday to Thursday

View our Philosophy HERE 

Address: 134 Lang St, Dartmoor, VIC 3304
Phone: 1300 453 635

Heywood

Heywood Kindergarten

Heywood Kindergarten has been delivering high-quality, inclusive and culturally diverse programs to children and families in the Heywood community since 1985.

Our experienced teachers and educators work in partnership with children and families, supporting collaborative decision-making and active participation in the learning program. Guided by the Victorian Early Years Learning and Development Framework, we focus on children’s interests while fostering resilience, empathy, respect and a strong sense of inclusion.

We maintain strong connections with local schools and the wider community, supporting children to develop a sense of belonging and a confident transition to primary school.

Operating during Victoria School Terms Monday to Thursday  

View our Philosophy HERE

Address: 24 Hunter St, Heywood, VIC 3304
Phone: 1300 453 635

Portland

Karreeta Peenyeet Mara - Portland Child & Family Complex

Karreeta Peeneeyt Mara Portland Child and Family Complex is a purpose-built, integrated child and family services facility providing high-quality care and education for children aged 8 weeks to 6 years.

The centre offers a welcoming, inclusive environment where children and families are supported through early learning programs designed to foster development, wellbeing and a strong sense of belonging.

In 2011, the building was given a dual name following consultation with Traditional Owners, the Victorian Aboriginal Corporation for Languages and the broader community. The Dhauwurd Wurrung name Karreeta Peeneeyt Mara means “Grow Strong People,” reflecting the centre’s commitment to nurturing children, families and community.

Operating Monday to Friday  

View our Philosophy HERE

Address: 94 Julia St, Portland, VIC 3305
Phone: 1300 453 635 

Jaycee Kindergarten

Jaycee Kindergarten has been providing high-quality early learning programs to children and families in the Portland community since 1966.

We offer Kindergarten programs for 3-year-old children and Pre-Prep, delivered by experienced and passionate teachers and educators. Our play-based approach, guided by the Victorian Early Years Learning and Development Framework, supports children’s learning, development and school readiness.

Children and families are active participants in the program, helping to build a strong sense of belonging, confidence and social skills. We focus on preparing children for primary school by fostering independence, resilience and a love of learning, supporting a smooth and successful transition to school.

We value respectful, collaborative partnerships with families and encourage ongoing involvement in our service.

Operating during Victoria School Terms Monday to Friday 

View our Philosophy HERE

Address: 68 Wellington Rd, Portland, VIC 3305
Phone: 1300 453 635 

Kalbarri Kindergarten 

Kalbarri Kindergarten provides high-quality early learning programs for children and families in the Portland community.

Our welcoming environment features two inviting outdoor play spaces, including opportunities for children to engage with our pet chickens, supporting hands-on learning and connection with nature.

We offer a play-based program that encourages curiosity, confidence and social development, helping children build strong foundations for learning and a successful transition to primary school.

Operating during Victoria School Terms Monday to Friday  

View our Philosophy HERE

Address: 11 Mitchell Cres, Portland, VIC 3305
Phone: 1300 453 635 

Other services in the community

Bundarra Uniting Kindergarten - privately run

Address: 124 Fawthrop St, Portland VIC 3305
Phone: 1800 183 103

Early Learning Victoria Thookay Yarkeen

Address: 131 Edgar Street, Portland VIC 3305

Phone: (03) 5522 2700

Elsa MacLeod Kindergarten – community managed

Address: 60 Henty St, Portland, VIC 3305
Phone: (03) 5523 2680

Good Start Early Learning Centre – privately run

Address: 49-53 Wellington Rd, Portland, VIC 3305
Phone: (03) 5521 1433

Heywood Early Learning Centre -  privately run

Address: 39 Hunter Street, Heywood, VIC 3304
Phone: (03) 5527 1118