How do I enrol my child at Yarraleen Preschool?
You will need to submit an online application through our website www.yarraleenpreschool.com.au. 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. Registrations close on 31st March the year prior to commencing.
How many hours a week will my child attend pre-school?
Our three-year-old program attend 12 hours per week.
Our four-year- old program have the option to attend the 15 hours of Free Kinder or we do offer extended hours of 16 or 18 hours per week.
My child turns three in March. Can he/she attend three-year-old kindergarten?
A child must turn 3 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 3, so if your child turns 3 after the start of first term they will not be able to join the class until their third birthday. Children who turn 3 after 28 January in the year of attendance will be placed into second round offers.
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
The Department of Education state: “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”
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 the last day of Term 1 of the year preceding the kinder year. First-round offers will be sent out within 2 weeks of the closing date. Subsequent offers will be made throughout the year until all places in the group are allocated. Offers will be made via email and parents/carers are required to confirm their acceptance of the place within 2 weeks from receipt of the offer together with payment of a $200 deposit. Enrolment forms will be sent via email in July.
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 bookkeeper 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 and a healthy snack. Children in four-year-old kindergarten will also bring their lunch. 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 and children 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 back home. Water bottles should only contain water. Milk and juice is 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 to help 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 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. Any child with vomiting or diarrhea symptoms must be kept home until 48 hours from the last symptom.