Why families choose Pre-Kindy
A gentle introduction to being part of a group
Starting in a new environment and spending time away from a primary caregiver are significant steps for a young child.
Chapell Hill Pre-Kindy gives children the opportunity to become familiar with simple routines, participate alongside other children and practise being away from their primary caregiver in a calm and supported setting.
Our short afternoon sessions provide a manageable introduction to kindy life without the demands of a full day.
Small groups with individual support
Our Pre-Kindy groups have a maximum of 16 children supported by two teachers. This allows our teachers to get to know each child and provide reassurance as they settle in.
Children have time to observe, explore and join in when they are ready, while gradually forming relationships with teachers and other children.
Experienced teachers and a stable team
Young children feel more secure when they are surrounded by familiar, trusted adults.
Our teachers are highly experienced, and many of our staff have been part of the Chapel Hill Kindy community for many years. This stability allows children and families to build strong, lasting relationships with the people who care for and teach them.
Research supports what our families often observe: high-quality, play-based early learning with experienced teachers can help children develop confidence, independence, communication and positive approaches to learning.
For families coming from larger care environments, the continuity of our team can be particularly reassuring.
Confidence that grows through play
Young children learn through play, repetition and relationships. Throughout each session, children are supported to:
communicate their ideas and needs
play alongside others and begin taking turns
express their feelings
try new experiences
make simple choices
become increasingly independent
These skills develop naturally through everyday play rather than formal lessons.
Familiarity before Kindergarten
Pre-Kindy children become familiar with the Chapel Hill Kindy setting, our teachers and the rhythm of a Kindy session. They also gain experience spending time away from their primary caregiver in an environment that may become their Kindergarten classroom the following year.
Our Kindy families frequently tell us that this familiarity makes the transition into Kindergarten feel more comfortable for both children and parents.
Greater security for the following year (priority kindy placement)
Chapel Hill Community Kindergarten is fortunate to have strong demand for our Kindy places and a full waiting list. Current Pre-Kindy children receive priority for Kindergarten places after any current Kindy children who are delaying their transition to Prep.
For families hoping to continue at Chapel Hill Kindy, we understand this provides welcome peace-of-mind and greater certainty when planning their child’s early education.
What Happens at Chapel Hill Pre-Kindy?
Each session offers a balance of familiar routines and open-ended play. Children may take part in:
outdoor play and exploration
stories and early literacy experiences
music and movement
creative and sensory activities
small-group play
afternoon snack time
The program is a smaller, age-appropriate version of a Kindy day, created specifically for younger children. There is no pressure for children to participate in everything. They are given time to watch, explore and become involved in their own way.
A Natural Place to Explore
Chapel Hill Community Kindergarten offers a spacious outdoor environment where children can move, imagine, investigate and connect with nature.
Our setting is an important part of the experience. Children have room to play freely, follow their interests and develop confidence through hands-on exploration.
We are often referred to as a hidden gem in Chapel Hill, as many families tell us they do not fully appreciate how special the environment is until they visit.
What Parents Say
“We enrolled our son in the Pre-Kindy program knowing it wasn’t the easiest option, but it has been one of the best decisions we’ve made.
This isn’t childcare; it’s genuine early learning. The educators are experienced teachers who focus on building independence, confidence and readiness for Kindy in a really genuine way.
By the time he started Kindy, he was already settled, confident and excited to be there. He knew the environment and routines and felt completely comfortable.
He learned so much during Pre-Kindy, but more importantly, he developed a real love of going. It takes a little more commitment, but it is absolutely worth it.”
- Pre-Kindy Parent
Could Pre-Kindy be right for your family?
Children do not need to arrive already confident, independent or comfortable with separation.
Pre-Kindy is designed to help them build these skills gradually, with support from experienced teachers.
Could Pre-Kindy be right for your family?
Pre-Kindy may be a good fit if your child:
is three years old and in the year before funded Kindergarten
would benefit from a gentle introduction to a Kindergarten environment
would enjoy learning and playing alongside other children
would benefit from becoming familiar with the setting, teachers and routines before Kindergarten
enjoys hands-on, play-based experiences in a natural environment
Come and see Pre-Kindy for yourself
The best way to understand the program is to visit Chapel Hill Kindy.
You can explore our outdoor environment, meet our teachers and ask questions about whether Pre-Kindy is the right next step for your child.
We welcome families from all over Brisbane, including Chapel Hill, Fig Tree Pocket, Kenmore, Indooroopilly and surrounding western suburbs.
Fees
Pre-Kindy is a fee-paying program. The program provides children with several hours of teacher-supported play, outdoor learning, creative experiences and gentle preparation for Kindergarten in a small group environment.
Please visit our fees page for current costs and enrollment information.
COME & Visit
Find out more about our program by seeing it in action during a tour of our kindy!
