TWELVE pre-schools in the Upper Hunter electorate will have access to an improved early childhood education, thanks to a NSW Government initiative aiming to continually improve the environment of pre-school services.
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Upper Hunter MP Michael Johnsen, who was joined by Minister for Early Childhood Education Sarah Mitchell, said the grants were making a big difference to pre-schools in the region.
“A total of $141,387.30 has been invested in community pre-schools in the Upper Hunter, as part of the NSW Government’s Quality Learning Environments program, which will fund improvements to grounds and buildings as well as specialised educational programs for children,” he explained.
“In this round of Quality Learning Environments grants, funds have been allocated for specialised educational programs and practices such as art classes, yoga or dance lessons, along with service enhancements such as playground renovations or new carpet.
“We are committed to supporting pre-schools to ensure our littlest learners are getting access to the best quality early childhood education possible.
“These grants have eased some of the pressure off pre-schools in ensuring children are getting access to top quality early childhood education.
“As a parent, now grandfather myself, I know that often pre-schools have to rely on fundraising efforts to ensure their service is up-to-scratch physically, and to deliver programs that are more niche.
“This funding will ensure all our local children will have the opportunity of a positive early childhood education experience and actually really enjoy their time at pre-school.”
In this round of Quality Learning Environments grants, the following services in the Upper Hunter will receive upgrades:
* $15,000 for Singleton Heights Preschool to replace their flooring
* $13,066 for Willow Tree Preschool to get a new kitchen oven, new carpet and new classroom furniture
* $10,433.50 at Merriwa Preschool and Activity Centre for a new playground
* $7,626 at Clarence Preschool for a parent information area and a “Head and Heart Mindfulness Program”
* $13,766 at Murrurundi Community Preschool for a new “African Hut”
* $15,000 for the upgrade of the kitchen at Gloucester Preschool
* $5630 for new play equipment at Ooranga Mobile Preschool
* $15,000 for Scone & District Preschool to upgrade the outdoor play area
* $10,306 for an upgrade to the nappy change facilities at Denman Children’s Centre
* $10,289 at Dungog Community Preschool to upgrade the outdoor play area
* $13,500 for a new concrete ramp at Quirindi Preschool
* $11,770 at Muswellbrook Preschool Kindergarten for a “sensory path”
