A trial of after-school care for preschoolers has been declared a success following an evaluation report by the Education Directorate.
Minister for Education, Yvette Berry said the trial program of onsite outside of school hours care (OSHC) for ACT public preschool students had been running in four preschools across the Territory, at Duffy, Monash, Giralang and Palmerston, since last year.
Ms Berry said the Directorate’s After-Hours Care Trial for ACT Public Preschool in 2020 – Evaluation Report found the trial had increased a collective understanding of children’s education and developmental needs through the sharing of knowledge.
“In all four schools the trial was a success and each school is continuing to offer the program in 2021,” Ms Berry said.
“Other public primary schools and care providers have indicated they are looking to offer this model as well,” she said.
“Delivering OSHC for preschoolers in the preschool environment reduces pressure on families, eliminates additional transitions for children and strengthens relationships between families, the school and OSHC providers, enabling a more seamless experience for children and families.”
Ms Berry said the program provided education and care for young children, on one site, that reflected the working hours of parents and carers.
The Education Directorate’s 13-page Evaluation Report can be accessed at this PS News link.
