Public preschools in the ACT
Children who turn four on or before April 30, can start preschool in the year they turn four (15 hours per week fee-free). Children turning four after 30 April, can start preschool the following year (see the Education Directorate website for early enrolment criteria). The deadline for online enrolments is June 2 for first-round offers. Ask for help from the primary school or ACT's Education Directorate for information on enrolling in preschool.
- FAQ about ACT preschools and playschools
- Enrolling in preschool or kindergarten
- All about ACT Playschools
- Transition to School Guide to starting school/preschool.
Parents and carers with young children joining a new school community can connect with their school parent association. Parent associations help families connect with each other and the school to engage with their child's education. Parent involvement has important benefits for children and families including improved wellbeing outcomes and learning dispositions. P&Cs provide a forum for parents and families to ask questions about school life so reach out to your school's parent association or contact Council directly.
Council's Early Learning Officer is Marina Spurgin. This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.Marina for details about your school's early learning parent representative.
Early Learning Subcommittee
The subcommittee supports parents with young learners at public preschool and kindergarten to have an active role in their child’s early education and school community. All parents including preschool or kindergarten parent representatives and P&Cs or PPAs are invited to attend. To be notified of meetings and receive minutes please This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. contact list, or view the ELSC minute summaries.
Meetings: Held online usually once per school term (4 times per year) from 7.30-8.30pm.
Meeting registration: next meeting Nov 9 Register here
Reports
- Council's article on the ACT's early childhood strategy