Our kindergarten program is tailored for children aged four and over. It offers a holistic approach to child development, focusing on early language, literacy, and numeracy skills. Little Scholars’ Kindy program is delivered by a qualified early childhood teacher (ECT) and helps children develop social skills, emotional regulation, and problem-solving abilities. Activities are designed to enhance both gross and fine motor skills, and we encourage new friendships and expose children to diverse cultures and environments. For more information on transitioning to school, please visit our Transition to School Program.
Free Kindy at Little Scholars
Starting 1 January 2024, Kindergarten at Little Scholars will be more affordable for our kindergarten-aged children. Known as 'Kindy,' this educational program is designed for children in the year before they start primary school. The Queensland government's Free Kindy program will cover 15 hours per week for 40 weeks per year for children attending a government-approved kindergarten program like ours.
Free Kindy Q & A
What does 'free kindy' mean for Queensland children?
Starting next year, our kindergarten program will receive additional government funding, allowing your child to attend 15 hours of kindergarten per week for free, along with the Child Care Subsidy (CCS). This will reduce your out-of-pocket costs, making kindergarten more affordable for Queensland families.
The out-of-pocket cost of kindergarten for 40 weeks of the year will be subsidised by the state government and reduce your GAP fees after your CCS is applied.
To access this funding, a child must attend 15 hours per week (minimum 2 days).
During the twelve weeks where the free kindergarten subsidy is not applied, your CCS will be applied to your fees to reduce your out-of-pocket costs (as per CCS entitlements in pre-kindergarten years at your campus).
If my child attends only two days a week, is it free?
Costs can vary based on the number of enrolled hours. Hours not covered by the Free Kindy program will have the CCS applied to reduce the gap fee. For tailored information, consult your Campus Manager. We have developed a Kindy Calculator to assist you estimate your new out of pocket fees.
How old does my child have to be for the free kindy subsidy?
Children who are four years old by 30 June in the enrolment year are eligible.
What are the program hours?
Our kindy program is delivered five days a week, covering 15 free hours each week over a minimum of two days. The 15 hours free kindy is delivered during our long day care hours at all campuses. The Queensland government is subsidising 15 hours of your long day care kindy day, therefore, there will be a reduced out-of-pocket cost on these days. We deliver our educational program all year-round. The Queensland government’s free kindergarten subsidy will apply during the state school terms (40 weeks across the year).
What will my child learn in kindy?
In our kindergarten programs, your child will learn through play, guided by our qualified early childhood teachers (ECTs). This means they’ll get to explore, make friends, and create things while picking up important skills. They’ll grow in areas like critical thinking, talking with others, and even get a head start on reading and counting. For information on our transition to school program, please click here.
Is this program available at all locations?
Yes, all 14 Little Scholars campuses offer the free Queensland government-approved Kindy program.
Are there additional costs?
Any hours outside the 15 hours per week covered by the Free Kindy program will have the CCS applied, reducing your out-of-pocket expenses
What's the teacher-to-child ratio?
Little Scholars operates above the minimum requirements of the national standards, the ratio for this age group is one educator for every 11 children. All Little Scholars campuses operate with three educators in the Kindergarten studios.
Can I combine this with other discounts?
Yes, you can combine the Free Kindy subsidy with the Child Care Subsidy to maximise savings and reduce your out-of-pocket costs.
What's the enrolment process?
Visit our website at mylittlescholars.com.au and find the campus closest to you. From there, you can book a tour, and then once you’ve seen our beautiful campus, you can fill out an enrolment form online. It’s that easy! Our enrolments officer will guide you through next steps once she has your completed form.
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