Pre-prep
Kindergarten
Program

4-6 years

About our Pre-prep
Kindergarten Program

Kindergarten is a crucial stage in a child’s development, as they prepare for their schooling years. We offer a government-funded kindergarten program that focuses on school readiness and ensures your child experiences a smooth transition into their school years.

School Readiness: Introduction of basic numeracy and literacy through intentional teaching, simulating the in-classroom environment.

Encouraging Independence: Learning to follow routines, manage personal belongings, and take care of simple tasks—developing a sense of responsibility and self-reliance.

Incursions: Whether it’s an enchanting animal encounter, a fascinating science demonstration, a captivating storytelling session, or a cultural exploration, every incursion is designed to captivate children and inspire a love for learning.

Excursions: Taking learning beyond the classroom walls, our kindergarten children have the opportunity to explore the world outside and discover new environments and experiences.

Did you know?
Kindergarten is Free

All 3- and 4-year-old children in Victoria can access Free Kinder. This means families will save up to $2,100 per child each year.

Our Pre-prep Kindergarten Program

Take a tour of our Pre-prep Kindergarten Room

FREE Kinder graduation yearbook

Enrol in funded Kindergarten at The Fern Early Learning Centres and receive a FREE Kinder graduation yearbook.

A keepsake filled with a year’s worth of memories, unforgettable incursions, and the first steps of your child’s educational journey. As you look back over the years, this yearbook will remind you of your child’s first friends, favourite activities, and the beginning of their excitement for learning. It’s a treasure that celebrates the start of their bright future!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Free Kinder subsidy, and does The Fern participate in this program?

Yes! The Fern Early Learning Centre is part of the Victorian Government’s Free Kinder program, which provides a $2,100 subsidy per year for children in Three-Year-Old and Four-Year-Old Kinder. This funding is automatically applied to reduce your fees, making high-quality early childhood education more affordable for families.

How many hours of kindergarten will my child attend at The Fern?

Our Kinder Program offers a minimum of 15 hours per week, led by qualified early childhood teachers in a structured, play-based environment. Since The Fern operates as a long day care centre, families can access extended care beyond the funded hours to suit their needs.

What makes The Fern's Kinder Program different?

At The Fern Early Learning Centre, we go beyond the basics of early childhood education by offering:

  • A structured, play-based curriculum aligned with the New Zealand Early Childhood Curriculum
  • Regular incursions to enhance learning experiences, including music, cultural workshops, sustainability programs, and more
  • A tight-knit community where children feel secure, supported, and confident to explore and learn
  • Nutritious, chef-prepared meals provided daily
Will I need to pay extra for the Kinder Program?

The $2,100 Free Kinder subsidy reduces the cost of your child’s education. If your child attends more than the 15 hours per week covered by the subsidy, additional fees may apply. However, families may be eligible for the Child Care Subsidy (CCS), which can further lower out-of-pocket costs.

How is the Free Kinder subsidy applied at The Fern?

The subsidy is spread across the year and appears as a ‘Victorian Government Free Kinder offset’ on your invoices. This means parents at The Fern Early Learning Centre receive maximum financial support while accessing a high-quality kindergarten program.

What age does my child need to be for the Kinder Program?

To enrol in:

  • Three-Year-Old Kinder, your child must turn three by 30 April of the attending year.
  • Four-Year-Old Kinder, your child must turn four by 30 April of the attending year.

We encourage early enrolment as spots fill up quickly.

How does The Fern’s Kinder Program prepare my child for school?

Our program is designed to build school readiness by developing:

  • Early literacy and numeracy skills through engaging, hands-on learning
  • Social and emotional confidence to navigate friendships and structured learning environments
  • A love for learning through our inquiry-based approach, regular incursions, and hands-on experiences

By the time children graduate from The Fern, they are confident, curious, and prepared for a smooth transition to primary school.

Can my child attend more than 15 hours per week?

Yes! The Fern is a long day care centre, meaning families can book additional hours beyond the 15-hour funded Kinder Program. The Child Care Subsidy (CCS) can help reduce fees for these extra hours, making flexible care more affordable.

Are meals provided during the Kinder Program?

Yes! The Fern provides freshly prepared, nutritious meals and snacks each day, catering to all dietary needs. We promote healthy eating habits and provide a variety of balanced meals to support your child’s growth and development.

How do I enrol my child in The Fern’s Kinder Program?

Enrolling at The Fern Early Learning Centre is simple! To secure your child’s place:

  • Call your nearest Fern centre – our friendly team will guide you through the process
  • Visit our website to book a tour and experience our engaging learning environment firsthand
  • Enrol early – spots fill fast, so we recommend securing your child’s place as soon as possible

Enquiry Form