Three-year-old kindergarten program cancelled for 2020

Published on 03 April 2020

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West Wimmera Shire Council will cancel its three-year-old kindergarten program for the remainder of 2020 due to the coronavirus pandemic in Australia.

Director Corporate and Community Services Ashley Roberts said the health and safety of staff and the community was a priority for council.

"As you are no doubt aware, Australia is currently experiencing stage 3 restrictions, due to the rapid spread of the virus known as COVID-19," he said.

"Due to the current COVID-19, West Wimmera Shire Council have made the decision to cancel our three-year-old kindergarten service for the remainder of 2020.

"The decision to cancel the three-year-old kindergarten service is aimed at reducing social interaction in kindergartens, managing upgraded hygiene practices and reducing the risk of infection to both staff and families."

Four-year-old kindergarten will continue. There will be direction from the state government as to what format that will take - if the service will remain open or become an online platform.

Mr Roberts said the kindergarten teachers were planning for both delivery methods.

"We will let everybody know as soon as possible once we have direction," he said.

Unlike the four-year-old kindergarten service that is partially funded by Department of Education and Training (DET), our three-year-old kindergarten service does not receive this funding.

In 2021 West Wimmera Shire Council will be partially funded for three-year-old kindergarten by DET. Further information regarding implementation will be provided later in the year.

"We understand this may cause some people concern and we greatly appreciate your understanding during this time," Mr Roberts said. 

Preventing the spread

  • If you can stay home, you must stay home.

Thoroughly cleaning your hands with soap and where possible warm water for up to 20 seconds, sing a nursery rhyme to ensure adequate time.

Not using your hand to cover your nose and mouth when sneezing or coughing, but use your upper arm or inside of your elbow.

Avoid contact with anyone that is experiencing cold or flu like symptoms.

  • Increase hygiene 

Further details contact Ashley Roberts, Director Corporate and Community Services, 0417 532 291. Email: earlyyears@westwimmera.vic.gov.au