In 2026, we are trialling a new approach in Kindy and Pre‑Primary that is designed to support the wellbeing, confidence and learning of our youngest students.
Rather than introducing specialist teachers into these year levels, we have aligned our Kindy teachers with each Pre‑Primary class (Kellie Elliot with Pre-Primary Blue and Emma Smith with Pre-Primary Gold) . Our Kindy and Pre‑Primary teachers are working closely together to deliver all curriculum areas in a coordinated and developmentally appropriate way, while also receiving their allocated classroom release time. In Kindy, this also means that our Kindy teachers are now delivering all curriculum areas over the three days, ensuring consistency and strong relationships within each class.
This approach means fewer adults working with children across the week, helping us create calm and consistent routines. We know that consistency is especially important in the early years. When children see the same educators each day, they are better able to build strong relationships, feel secure and settle confidently into their learning.
The trial is also strongly aligned with the Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF), which underpins early childhood education across Australia. The EYLF emphasises:
- secure and respectful relationships
- consistent, predictable environments
- play‑based learning supported by intentional teaching
- smooth transitions between early years settings
You can learn more about the EYLF here.
By having early childhood trained educators working collaboratively in our Pre‑Primary classrooms, we are able to provide learning experiences that reflect how young children learn best, through play, exploration and carefully structured activities. This model also supports smoother transitions from Kindy to Pre‑Primary, as teaching approaches and expectations remain familiar and supportive for children.
Importantly, all curriculum areas continue to be covered across both Kindy and Pre‑Primary, with learning carefully planned to ensure a rich and balanced program. Throughout the year, we will monitor how this approach supports student wellbeing, engagement and learning, and we will value feedback from our families as part of this process.
This trial reflects our ongoing commitment at St Anthony’s School to creating nurturing, high‑quality learning environments where every child feels safe, supported and ready to thrive.
If you have any questions regarding the trial, please do not hesitate to reach out to a member of the Early Childhood team.
Leon Bolding
Principal
