To boost early childhood education for Canberrans, the ACT Government has declared the provision of free preschool for all three-year-olds for 300 hours annually, commencing in 2024. With a staggering investment of over $50 million across four years, this initiative promises equitable access to quality play-based learning, bringing lifelong benefits for children.

Capital Region Community Services (CRCS), an esteemed provider of Early Childhood and Education Care (ECEC) services, is proud to announce its participation in this landmark program.

Sandra Sheehy-Cox, Executive Manager – Education and Care, commented on the significance of this partnership: “Our four ECECs have always been dedicated to offering top-tier education and care for children aged 0-6. We did not hastate to join this initiative with ACT Government on their most substantial investment in early childhood to date. The profound lifelong impacts of a quality program during the early years cannot be overstated. This initiative under the ‘Set up for Success: An Early Childhood Strategy for the ACT’ aligns seamlessly with our commitment to the community.”

When asked about the benefits for children in the service area, Sheehy-Cox elaborated, “With the condition that the funded programs must be overseen by an Early Childhood Teacher, we’re ensuring optimal outcomes for our kids. We’ve observed smoother school transitions for children attending two years of preschool before kindergarten. Additionally, providing families with 300 hours of fee relief annually — which equates to 15 hours weekly — significantly supports them amidst rising living costs.”

On the topic of the program’s focus on three-year-olds, Sheehy-Cox added, “Play-based programs are anchored in the Early Years Learning Framework version 2.0 (EYLF V2.0) and adhere to the National Quality Framework. This government-supported age bracket not only delivers equity to families but also sets the stage for seamless transitions to school.”

Families eager to seize this opportunity next year can register their interest by contacting the Children’s Services Admin team at csat@crcs.com.au.

For more detailed information on this announcement, visit the official ACT Government page: https://www.education.act.gov.au/early-childhood/coming-soon-free-three-year-old-preschool.

Learn about what more than childcare is: Early Childhood Centres – Capital Region Community Services (crcs.com.au)