Kindergarten and Pre-Prep at Maples
Funded Three and Four Year Old Program
Maples combines a structured curriculum with play-based learning, led by qualified Early Childhood Teachers. The program integrates inquiry-based projects, cultural celebrations, and a progressive meal approach to provide a well-rounded experience that supports every child's growth.
Funded Kindergarten and Pre-Prep
Our programs cater to families seeking both funded and unfunded options, with flexible full-time and part-time schedules designed to suit individual needs. At Maples, children learn under the guidance of highly experienced, bachelor-qualified teachers who are passionate about early childhood education.
Our Kindergarten program is delivered over a two-year journey that begins with the three-year-old Kindergarten Program. After completing their first enriching year, children transition into the four-year-old Kindergarten Program, building on their early learning experiences and preparing confidently for primary school.
Three-Year-Old Kindergarten
The first year of our Kindergarten program at Maples focuses on creating consistency in relationships, routines, and early learning experiences. Children are supported in developing social skills, emotional confidence, and a strong sense of belonging in a nurturing and play-rich environment.
Four-Year-Old Kindergarten
In the second year, our four-year-old Kindergarten Program extends the foundations established during the previous year. With a focus on school readiness, children engage in experiences designed to enhance their communication, independence, and problem-solving skills. Our program helps ensure a smooth and successful transition into primary school, fostering lifelong learning habits and confidence.
Our curriculum is Reggio Emilia inspired, encouraging creativity, exploration, and a love of learning through child-led, play-based experiences. With a strong focus on school readiness, Maples Kindergarten ensures every child develops the confidence, curiosity, and skills needed for a smooth and successful transition into primary school.
What is Pre-Prep?
Pre-Prep is the Victorian Government's expansion of Four-Year-Old Kindergarten, providing children with more hours of high-quality, play-based learning in the year before they start school.
Just like Four-Year-Old Kindergarten, Pre-Prep is delivered by qualified early childhood teachers and educators. The additional hours give children more time to learn through play, develop friendships, build confidence and independence, and strengthen the skills that support a positive transition to school.
Over time, Four-Year-Old Kindergarten across Victoria will transition to Pre-Prep, with funded programs increasing from 15 hours to up to 30 hours per week.
Who can access Pre-Prep earlier?
From 2026, some children can access 16–25 hours of Pre-Prep each week regardless of where they live in Victoria.
This includes eligible children who are:
- Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander
- from a refugee or asylum seeker background
- known to Child Protection, including previous contact
- supported through Early Start Kindergarten or Access to Early Learning during their Three-Year-Old Kindergarten year.
Further priority groups become eligible from 2028 as the Victorian Government continues the statewide rollout.
What is Free Kinder?
The Free Kinder initiative is a Victorian Government subsidy designed to reduce out-of-pocket costs for families with children enrolled in kindergarten programs within Long Day Care (LDC) settings, such as Maples. It supports access to early education for both three- and four-year-old children.
Funding Amounts and Eligibility
Families whose children attend 15 hours or more per week in a funded kindergarten program are eligible for up to $2,101 per calendar year per child.
For families opting for one day (approximately 7.5 hours) per week of funded three-year-old kindergarten, the subsidy is $1,050 per year.
Meet Our Teaching Team
Our Kindergarten and Pre-Prep programs are led by qualified, passionate Early Childhood Teachers. Meet some of the team and hear how they support every child's learning and growth.
BOOK A TOURWhy Families Choose Maples for Their Kinder Years
Inspiring Learning Environments
Our indoor and outdoor spaces are thoughtfully designed to spark curiosity, foster growth, and encourage exploration. Each environment offers unique opportunities for children to connect, create, and thrive.
Book a Tour or Register Now
Come and see our Kindergarten and Pre-Prep rooms for yourself, or secure your child's place today.
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