Kindergarten

“Students are encouraged to see themselves as being part of something larger than just a school – they are part of a community. This sense of belonging and participation means they feel respected, supported and valued by their teachers, their peers and others at the school, which has a profound impact on their identity, their wellbeing and academic performance.”

– Lauren Di Palma, parent

Flexible Kinder options

We are pleased to offer our families flexible options for Kindergarten. All Kinders will have three compulsory ‘core’ days, but families have the option of requesting four days or even five days of Kinder per week.

Families can nominate one of the three options. The final allocation of days will be nominated by the College to ensure optimal class sizes.

These extended Kinder options have been developed to support working families who are currently utilising childcare options alongside Kinder.

For all Kinder enquiries please contact Nicole Wighton, our Enrolment Officer, at [email protected] or (03) 6108 2560.

Learning in Kinder

The Kinder program is designed to nurture and provide opportunities to build confidence, independence and the joy of discovery and learning, which will carry on well beyond the student’s year in Kinder.

We provide a play-based educational program that builds on the College’s vision statement and is guided by the Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF). Our program is planned and implemented by taking into account the different interests, cultural backgrounds and developmental levels of all children. We focus on enhancing their strengths, recognising that children develop at their own pace to reach their individual potential. As a Catholic school we value the uniqueness of each child and aim to build and nourish their personal relationship with Jesus.

Kinder classrooms

The early learning facility at St Mary’s College is purpose-built, designed with our youngest students’ experiences in mind. The modern space offers a stimulating and nurturing environment that is tailored to foster play and sensory-based learning. Kinder classrooms are large, airy and bright, overlooking the outdoor play space.

Adjacent to the classrooms is a large outdoor play area featuring play equipment, a sandpit, water pump and stream, and sensory path, where children can explore and experiment with their natural surroundings.

Kindergarten readiness digital pack FAQ

If this enrolment is your first child starting their formal educational journey, you are sure to have a lot of questions. Many of these will be answered at the upcoming Kinder Orientation sessions, but for a head start in helping you feel prepared, view the Kindergarten Digital Pack FAQ here.