How do I enrol my child at Yarraleen Preschool?
You will need to submit an online application through our website www.yarraleenpreschool.com.au or click on this link Application Form – Yarraleen Preschool – EnrolNow One . A $30 non-refundable application fee is payable.
When should I apply to enrol my child into kindergarten?
We accept enrolments after a child’s 1st birthday. Enrolments are processed in order of receipt. To ensure you are offered a position, we recommend applying to enrol your child by the time of their 2nd birthday.
How many hours a week will my child attend pre-school?
At Yarraleen Preschool, our four-year-old group have the option to attend either 16 or 18 hours per week and our three-year-old children attend 10 hours a week.
My child turns three in March. Can he/she attend three-year-old kindergarten?
A child must turn three by the 30th of April in the year they are to attend three-year-old kindergarten. Children cannot attend the centre until they actually turn three, so if your child turns three after the start of first term, they will not be able to join the class until their third birthday. Full fees must be paid at the start of first term to hold your child’s position in the class.
Is my child ready to start Kinder?
Sometimes it can be difficult to decide whether your child is ready. You know your child better than anyone so looking at their skills, interests and abilities is the best way of deciding if they’re ready. If you have any doubts or concerns about your child starting, please feel free to call our Preschool Director, Heidi on 03 9850 8486 to discuss. Alternatively, you can email admin@yarraleenpreschool.vic.edu.au
“It is important for children to start school when they are ready to learn in a more formal environment. It is also important for you consider when it is best for your child to start school as this will help you determine the best time for them to begin kindergarten” (Department of Education)
Can my child start if they’re still not toilet trained?
Yes, they can. However, it is encouraged that the toilet training process has commenced or is in progress. We understand that it can take time and we are happy to work with you.
When will I find out if my child has been accepted?
First-round applications close on 30 June of the year preceding the kinder year. First-round offers will be sent out in July. Subsequent offers will be made throughout the year until all places in the group are allocated. Offers will be made via email and parents/guardians are required to confirm their acceptance of the place within 2 weeks from receipt of the offer. Enrolment forms will be sent via email in August.
Kinder Fees
Our kinder has opted into the State Government free kinder initiative. This funding only covers 15 hours. Our 4-year-old program offers 16 to 18 hours. These additional hours will be invoiced each term. There will be an excursion fee charged annually.
Can I be involved in the kindergarten?
Absolutely! We strongly encourage parents to be a part of our preschool in variety of ways. You can be involved in the Committee, volunteer to parent help during the session, or just jump in and help out when the “Call for Help” is put out.
What is the Committee of Management?
The Committee of Management is made up of parent volunteers who are ultimately responsible for the running of the centre. There are a variety of roles available on the committee and a lot of support for volunteers. Yarraleen Preschool employs both an administration officer and book-keeper to support the committee in running the preschool.
What does my child need to bring to kinder?
Children will need to bring with them a good-sized backpack with a change of clothes, as well as their water bottle, lunch, and a healthy snack. At orientation you will receive an Information Booklet which provides a detailed list of what you need.
What should my child bring for their snack/lunch?
First, and foremost, we are a NUT FREE preschool. We have staff members that are anaphylactic so it’s vital that parents are vigilant with this rule. Each group eats twice per session, lunch and then snack. Our preschool promotes healthy eating, so items such as chips, chocolates etc will be sent home. Water bottles should only contain water. Milk and juice are not allowed.
My child has an allergy/medical condition, how do you cater for this?
We require families of children with allergies or medical conditions to have their doctors fill out a Management Plan. This helps to ensure that we are fully aware of what to do in case of an emergency. Parents need to advise us on enrolment of any allergies and/or medical conditions and will need to follow the steps as found in our policies. The teacher will follow this up with you and a Risk Management and Communication Plan will be setup.
Can my child bring toys to kinder?
We ask that children’s toys are kept at home so that they do not get lost or broken at kinder. We have lots of activities and equipment for the children to enjoy while at kinder, so please encourage your child to leave their special toys at home.
If my child is sent home due to being unwell, when can they return?
If your child becomes unwell during the day, and has any of the following symptoms, your will be required to collect your child immediately.
- Fever
- Chills or sweats
- Cough
- Sore throat
- Shortness of breath
- Runny nose
They can return once any of the above symptoms resolve. A doctor’s certificate is not required for them to return however, we do encourage you to seek medical advice if your child is sent home with any of these symptoms.
What are Yarraleen’s Policies?
Policies are written to reflect the requirements of the Education and Care Services National Law and Regulations, DET funding and service agreements as well as best practice procedures from other organisations such as the Asthma Foundation.
Families are welcome to request to see any policies at the preschool or ask for a copy to be emailed to their personal address. Families are also welcome to provide feedback on policies and procedures and can email admin@yarraleenpreschool.vic.edu.au