292-296 Grimshaw St, Watsonia North 3087
[email protected] | 03 8578 6464

Phone number: 03 8578 6464

Children in the garden working as a team part of a kinder food garden program

3 and 4 Year Old Kindergarten Programs

At Grimshaw St Early Learning Centre, we proudly offer fully funded Victorian Government ‘Free Kinder’ programs for 3 & 4 Year Old Kindergarten. Our Kindergarten is delivered within our integrated Long Day Care setting and led by Bachelor-qualified Early Childhood Teachers, ensuring a high-quality, play-based learning experience.

We ground our Kindergarten programs in the belief that children learn best through play, relationships, and meaningful experiences.

We take a play-based, inquiry-led approach, where children are encouraged to explore their interests, ask questions, and develop a deep understanding of the world around them. Learning is not rushed instead, it is thoughtfully extended over time, allowing children to build confidence, persistence, and a genuine love of learning.

At the heart of our philosophy is a strong focus on social and emotional development. We prioritise helping children to develop:

  • A strong sense of identity and belonging
  • Confidence in group settings
  • Emotional regulation and resilience
  • Positive relationships with peers and educators

This intentional approach shapes everything we do at Grimshaw St Early Learning Centre, creating a nurturing environment where every child is supported to thrive. Discover more about our philosophy and the values that guide our approach to early childhood education.

 

 

Intentional Learning Through Play

Children are supported through intentional, play-based learning experiences that nurture curiosity, creativity, and a love of learning. Across daily experiences, they are encouraged to explore ideas, ask questions, and develop confidence as capable and engaged learners. Alongside this, children are introduced to early STEM concepts (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) through hands-on, play-based experiences. Whether investigating the natural environment, building and constructing, exploring patterns, or solving problems collaboratively, children develop curiosity, critical thinking, and an understanding of how the world works.

Our 3 & 4 Year Old Kindergarten programs are guided by the Victorian Early Years Learning and Development Framework (VEYLDF) and delivered by Bachelor-qualified Early Childhood Teachers, ensuring a structured yet flexible approach across key developmental areas, including communication, well-being, and early literacy and numeracy.

 

Playground to plate Fitzroy Outdoor Garden Area for 3 & 4 Year Old Kindergarten
Grimshaw St Outdoor Space
Playground to plate Fitzroy Outdoor Garden Area for 3 & 4 Year Old Kindergarten
Playground to Plate Food Garden Program

We recognise that every child is unique. Our educators design learning experiences that are responsive to individual strengths, needs, and interests, while also intentionally building the skills children need for their next stage of learning.

As children progress from 3-year-old to 4-year-old kindergarten, there is a natural evolution in the program, from a strong focus on social development and emotional security, to fostering independence, agency, school readiness, and more complex problem-solving skills.

Above all, our Kindergarten programs aim to instil a lifelong love of learning, where children feel capable, curious, and confident as they take their next steps toward school and beyond.

Our curriculum is further enriched through two signature programs that are embedded into children’s everyday learning. Both programs are led by dedicated educators and specialists, ensuring children benefit from rich, intentional learning experiences beyond the traditional classroom environment. Find out more about our curriculum below.

 

 

Playground to Plate Program

Playground To Plate Food Garden Program

Born from a love of growing up surrounded by gardens and the joy of hands-on experiences with food. Children are invited to plant, nurture, harvest, and prepare fresh produce, discovering the connection between what we eat and the natural world.

Our program is brought to life by Professional Garden Educators working alongside classroom teachers. Fresh produce becomes part of meals, encouraging healthy eating practices and lifelong habits.

The Art Studio

The Art Studio

Our Art Studio Program is a vibrant creative space where children are empowered to explore, imagine, and express themselves with confidence. Through open-ended, hands-on experiences, we foster curiosity, creativity, and meaningful communication in every child.

We inspire children to think creatively and to work both independently and collaboratively, building essential skills in teamwork, empathy, and problem-solving. We design every experience to encourage connection, reflection, and shared discovery.

From clay and painting to mixed media exploration, children engage in rich, sensory creative experiences that strengthen fine and gross motor skills while encouraging experimentation and self-expression.

 

 

Enriched Learning Experiences Beyond the Classroom

We enrich our Kindergarten programs with a range of engaging, hands-on experiences that foster curiosity, creativity, and real-world skills. These experiences fall within the centre’s additional programs such as the Playground to Plate Food Garden Program, Art Studio, Bush Kinder, Music/Movement, along with thoughtfully planned excursions and incursions that extend children’s inquiry-based learning. Our team of dedicated educators and qualified specialists deliver each of these experiences as an integral part of our curriculum.

Together, these programs ensure children have a well-rounded, engaging learning experience, developing creativity, confidence, and practical skills that extend beyond the classroom and support a smooth transition to school.
 

Music and Movement

Children engage in activities that develop gross and fine motor skills, coordination, rhythm, focus, and mindfulness.

Bush Kinder

Outdoor learning experiences in natural environments encourage curiosity, problem-solving, environmental awareness, and risk-taking.

Excursions & Incursions

Planned trips and visitors extend learning, encouraging exploration, social skills, and independence.

School Readiness Initiatives

As children approach primary school, we introduce practical, hands-on activities that ease the transition to school.

 

3 & 4 Year Old Kindergarten

Qualified and Experienced Educators

Our Kindergarten programs are led by Bachelor-qualified Early Childhood Teachers, supported by a consistent team of highly experienced educators. We believe that strong, trusting relationships with educators are the foundation of confident, engaged learners. That’s why we prioritise:

  • Continuity of care – familiar educators everyday help children feel secure and supported
  • Intentional teaching – educators guide learning with purpose, tailored to each child’s needs and interests
  • Ongoing professional development – our team stays up to date with best practices, ensuring high-quality education and care

Our team combines expertise, consistency, and dedication to nurture, challenge, and inspire children as they grow socially, emotionally, and academically in a safe and stimulating environment. We invite you and your family to book a tour, meet our dedicated educators, and discover how we support each child’s unique learning journey.

 

 

Art Studio Space
Art Studio Creative Arts Program
Hands on learning in our 3 & 4 Year Old Kindergarten
Hands on learning experiences

 

Government-Funded Kindergarten in an Integrated Setting

Eligible families can access the Australian Government Child Care Subsidy (CCS) to reduce their out-of-pocket fees. Families also receive additional support through the Victorian Government’s Free Kinder subsidy, which provides up to $2,101 per child per year (pro-rata).

We apply this funding directly to your account as we receive it from the State Government, where it appears on your statements as the “Victorian Government Free Kinder Offset”. This helps reduce your childcare costs while still giving you the flexibility and extended care hours of long day care.

Funded Kinder Requirements:

  • 3-Year-Old Kinder: The Government requires a minimum of 5 hours per week. Families may choose to extend attendance up to 15 hours per week by enrolling across three full days (5 hours each).
  • 4-Year-Old Kinder: The Government requires a minimum of 15 hours per week, delivered over at least 3 full days (5 hours each).

Victorian ‘Free Kinder’ Entitlements:

  • 3 & 4-Year-Old Kinder (3 days/week): $2,101 credit/year
  • 3-Year-Old Kinder (2 days/week): $1,400.66 credit/year
  • 3-Year-Old Kinder (1 day/week): $700.33 credit/year

We deliver our programs within long day care hours (6:30am–6:30pm), providing families with flexibility and convenience. Our all-inclusive care model ensures children receive five nutritious meals daily, along with nappies, wipes, bedding, and sunscreen, everything needed for a seamless day.

Our team can assist families in understanding eligibility, funded hours, and how this works with CCS, ensuring parents have a clear picture of costs, entitlements, and scheduling options.

 

 

Early Learning Space 3 & 4 Year Old Kindergarten
Every great journey starts with a solid foundation.
Hands on learning
Building early literacy through tactile, hands-on learning

 

A Strong Foundation for School and Beyond

Our Kindergarten program builds children’s confidence, skills, and independence so they can thrive on their first day of school and beyond. Through our integrated, play-based curriculum, children develop essential school readiness skills, including:

  • Independence and self-management as they learn to follow routines, organise their belongings, and participate in group activities
  • Social confidence and emotional resilience as they build positive relationships with peers and educators and learn to manage their emotions
  • Early literacy, numeracy, and problem-solving through hands-on, meaningful learning experiences
  • Our program mirrors the rhythms of school, helping children become familiar with structured routines, classroom expectations, and collaborative learning, all within a supportive and familiar environment.

 

Start Early, Settle Sooner

Beginning kindergarten in a long day care setting helps children:

  • Settle more easily into routines
  • Form friendships earlier
  • Build confidence and skills over a full year of learning

Guided by qualified Early Childhood Teachers and an evidence-based curriculum, our program supports a smooth and confident transition to school for both children and families. If you have any questions or would like to arrange a tour, feel free to call or email us. You can also book a tour here. We’d love to welcome your family to Fitzroy Early Learning Centre.

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about our Kindergarten programs, care, and enrolment.

What age groups does Grimshaw St Early Learning Centre cater to?

Grimshaw St Early Learning Centre provides high-quality early childhood education and care for children aged from 6 weeks through to school age. We offer a nurturing environment across all age groups, including long day care rooms for infants, toddlers, and young children, as well as 3-Year-Old and 4-Year-Old Kindergarten programs.

How do I know if I’m eligible for the Child Care Subsidy (CCS)?

Eligible families can access the Australian Government Child Care Subsidy (CCS), which helps reduce the cost of early childhood education and care. Eligibility is based on factors such as family income, activity levels (work, study, volunteering), and type of care.

You can estimate your entitlements using the CCS calculator via our website.

What is the Victorian Government Free Kinder subsidy?

The Free Kinder subsidy reduces the cost of eligible 3 & 4 Year Old Kindergarten programs. We apply this funding directly to funded kindergarten programs, helping reduce out-of-pocket fees for families.

Families can only access one funded kindergarten place per child each year.

What is included in School Readiness Initiatives?

Our School Readiness Initiatives sit at the heart of our Kindergarten curriculum and support children as they transition to primary school through play-based learning experiences.

Key Learning Focus

We focus on hands-on activities that build confidence, independence, and social capability, while strengthening literacy, numeracy, and emotional regulation.

3 and 4 Year Old Kindergarten

In both 3 and 4 Year Old Kindergarten, educators actively teach school readiness and support children as they develop the skills needed for a smooth transition to school.

How do excursions and incursions support learning?

Our Kinder teachers develop excursion and incursion programs each term to extend learning experiences. These activities encourage exploration, curiosity, and hands-on discovery.

They also support social skills, confidence, independence, and real-world understanding.

How do I enrol my child at Grimshaw St Early Learning Centre?

Enrolling is simple, and our team supports you throughout the process—from availability checks to enrolment forms and funding guidance.

We encourage families to Book a Tour – Today!