Funding for community kindergartens welcomed

12 April 2020

The Queensland Catholic Education Commission (QCEC) has welcomed the State Government’s announcement that it will make community kindergartens free to families for Term 2.  

More than 30 stand-alone Catholic kindergartens around the state are set to share in the $17 million funding announced by Education Minister Grace Grace. 

QCEC Executive Director Dr Lee-Anne Perry said it was important that community kindergartens could remain viable. 

“Our youngest learners need to have stability and continuity of their learning through these uncertain times,” Dr Perry said. 

“This funding ensures that families who have chosen community kindergartens, such as our Catholic kindergartens, won’t be forced to look at other options. 

“Research tells us how incredibly important learning in the early years is for all children.   

“I welcome this funding from the Queensland Government to community kindergartens to ensure children can continue to engage in learning at this vital stage of their development.” 

Dr Perry said ensuring the survival of community kindergartens also played an important part in keeping communities together during the pandemic. 

“Our community kindergartens are wonderful places of learning but also places where young families get to know each other, children form some of their first friendships and we find there is a great spirit of commitment to supporting the kindergarten. 

“Keeping this spirit alive during this time of isolation will help to build resilience in our children and our communities,” Dr Perry said.