UPDATE: Construction has officially begun on a new kindergarten in Sunshine West, directly adjacent to Ardeer South Primary School. This urgent development aims to provide essential early childhood education and is set to accommodate up to 66 children.
Officials including Minister for Children Lizzie Blandthorn and Laverton MP Sarah Connolly visited the site last month to celebrate this significant milestone. The kindergarten is part of the state government’s broader initiative, known as ‘best start, best life,’ which integrates kindergartens within primary school facilities across Victoria.
The principal of Ardeer South Primary School, Andrea Markham, emphasized the new facility’s impact on local families. “This will provide a brand new facility for parents in the local community to be able to access,” she stated. The kindergarten’s location will simplify drop-off times for families with children in both the kindergarten and primary school, enhancing the daily routine for many parents.
Markham further highlighted the kindergarten’s role in fostering relationships between parents and the school, aiding children’s transition into primary education. “We will be able to have the kids connect with the school so they’ll feel more comfortable… they’ll basically be a part of the school for the kindergarten years, which is really positive,” she added.
In addition to the Sunshine West site, a similar kindergarten will be constructed at Glengala Primary School, with both facilities slated to open for Term 1, 2024. The state government plans to appoint an approved provider for the new kindergarten, with an announcement expected later this year.
This development is a timely response to increasing demands for early childhood education in the region, addressing both accessibility and quality. As families eagerly anticipate the opening, the community is poised to benefit from improved educational resources that promote a seamless transition for young learners.
Stay tuned for more updates as this project progresses. The establishment of these kindergartens signifies a commitment to enriching the educational landscape for families in Sunshine West and beyond.
