Frequently Asked Questions
What is Kindergarten?
Kindergarten (or Kindy) is a structured, play-based educational program for children in the year before they are due to start school. Participating in a quality Kindergarten program will help children to begin their learning journey and be better prepared for school.
How many children are in each group?
Highfields Kindergarten enrols a maximum of 22 children in each Kindy group. Each year we enrol four groups of 22 children. Each group is allocated an Early Childhood Teacher and Teaching Assistant, which meets the Education and Care Services National Regulations for adult to child ratios.
When is my child eligible to attend Kindergarten?
Your child must have turned 4 years old by the 30th of June in the year that they attend Kindergarten. Use the handy table below to check your child’s eligible Kindergarten year.
| Your Child’s Date of Birth | Eligible for Kindy in: | Eligible for Prep in: |
| 1 July 2019 – 30 June 2020 | 2024 | 2025 |
| 1 July 2020 – 30 June 2021 | 2025 | 2026 |
| 1 July 2021 – 30 June 2022 | 2026 | 2027 |
| 1 July 2022 – 30 June 2023 | 2027 | 2028 |
| 1 July 2023 – 30 June 2024 | 2028 | 2029 |
| 1 July 2024 – 30 June 2025 | 2029 | 2030 |
When is a good time to place my child’s name on the Waiting List?
We hold a Waiting List for all future years for families interested in their child enrolling at Highfields Kindergarten. You can complete a Waiting List Form as soon as your child is born. By placing your child’s name on the Waiting List it does not guarantee your child will be offered a place at our Kindergarten nor does it obligate you to accept a position with our Kindergarten. In accordance with our Enrolment Procedure, enrolment offers (including preferences for Kindy groups) are made in date order of names being placed onto the Waiting List.
Can I bring my child for a tour?
You are welcome to call into our Kindergarten on any weekday to have a tour of our facilities and see the children participating in the program. We recommend mornings from 9:30am until 12:30pm (to avoid rest time). Although you do not need to book an appointment, it is helpful for us to know you are coming to ensure we have a staff member available to conduct a tour, and also so that we don’t book your tour on a morning where we may have an incursion taking place.
My child has an additional need or medical condition, how will Highfields & District Kindergarten support their individual needs?
Highfields Kindergarten provides an inclusive program for all children. If your child may need additional assistance, for example, facilities, equipment or resources and/or additional support staff, please notify us as soon as possible so that we can plan for the needs of your child. This information is requested to assist us with planning for the successful inclusion of your child. The information obtained will not be used to deny or delay enrolment of your child.
