On this page:
Non-government preschoolsGovernment preschoolsNew arrangements from 2013Integrated centres and servicesWaiting listsParent involvementImmunisationHealth, wellbeing and special needsIn South Australia preschools are also known as kindergartens and some private preschools are known as early learning centres. In preschool, children learn through play-based programs that are designed and delivered by qualified teachers.
Contact the preschool direct for information about eligibility, fees and attendance requirements.
Preschool is not compulsory.
Children can access up to four terms of preschool before they start school. Talk to your local preschool director or principal to determine how this will work for your child.
Aboriginal children and Children under Guardianship of the Minister are entitled to attend preschool once they turn three.
Children with additional needs may be able to start preschool two terms before they would normally start.
New arrangements from 2013
There will soon be a change to when children start preschool. In 2013 preschools will continue to enrol children in term one and term two.
Get information about these changes and find out when your child will start preschool.
[top of page]
Integrated centres and services
Integrated centres are places that offer two or more services. The combinations of services vary from centre to centre and may include child care, playgroup, preschool, early education and learning, early development, health services and family support services.
Children's Centres for Early Childhood Development and Parenting offer a mix of education, health and family services and are supported by the state government. These centres aim to meet the needs of the community so each may offer a slightly different mix of services.
Find out more by contacting an
integrated centre near you.
[top of page]
Waiting lists
Before enrolling your child you will need to place their name on the waiting list at the preschool. The success of your application depends on the places available at the time. Government preschools and kindergartens in South Australia are guided by the education department's preschool enrolment guidelines and policy. Private kindergartens have their own policies.
[top of page]
Parent involvement
Parents can get involved and contribute in a number of ways:
- help with fundraising
- volunteering for working bees
- being involved with the government council or parent groups.
More information on being involved and
volunteering.
[top of page]
Immunisation
Children do not need to be immunised before enrolling at a preschool. However, if they are not immunised, they may be excluded from attending during outbreaks of some infectious diseases.
More information on infection control and immunisation see:
Infection control page.
[top of page]
Health, wellbeing and special needs
Many preschools offer
specialist services for children with health conditions, disability or other special needs. A number of other support programs and services are also available including
respite care.
Get information about
health, wellbeing and special needs.
More information
On this site
Starting primary school
The education system in South Australia
Early childhood, education and care
Parenting, playcentres and playgroups
Disability support in preschools
Starting primary school
Choosing a school
Term dates and academic year
Other websites
Locate a preschool near you
Australian Children's Education & Care Quality Authority
Parenting Easy Guides (PEGs) - Parenting SA
Government Preschool Enrolment Policy
Contact
Enquiries about new preschool starting date arrangements
Phone (08) 8207 2494
email decdfirstday@sa.gov.au