By Helen Grimaux and Angela Valente
Coolaroo, Craigieburn and Sunbury will share in much sought-after preschool funding after the state government announced an expansion of its Access to Early Learning program.
Funding of $300,000 towards a $1.35 million upgrade to Sunbury’s Sunningdale Avenue Children’s Centre was announced, while a further $570,000 will support Coolaroo’s Westmere Preschool over the next three years.
More than $940,000 will go to upgrading Malcolm Creek Preschool at Craigieburn, with the government contributing $300,000.
Hume council has driven the preschool upgrades and allocated extensive funds from its own budget for early-learning centres.
The refurbished Sunningdale Avenue Children’s Centre was officially opened last week by Minister for Children and Early Childhood Development Wendy Lovell.
Hume council’s director of city communities, Margarita Caddick, said as a result of the redevelopment, additional staff were employed this year to accommodate the increase in Sunningdale preschool places from 97 to 130.
As well as works incorporating a new preschool room and redeveloped long day-care rooms, contemporary play areas have been added along with meeting spaces for educators, giving the centre more space for babies and toddlers.
“This upgrade has not just improved the quality of facilities, it has increased access to children’s services, including kindergarten, long day-care, maternal and child health, and playgroups,” Ms Lovell said.
“Not only is it more convenient for families, it’s better for children, allowing any learning and development issues to be identified and addressed early.
“We know that acting early is the most effective way to provide vulnerable young children with the best possible start in life,” Ms Lovell said.
