OUR local littlest learners are set to benefit from new and improved facilities and support programs at early childhood education and care services thanks to a funding boost from the NSW Liberal and Nationals Government.  

Member for Ku-ring-gai Alister Henskens SC confirmed five early childhood services in the new electorate of Wahroonga have been successful in securing grants of up to $17,500 to improve facilities, and access for children from low-income families, Aboriginal children, and culturally and linguistically diverse children. Local recipients are:

• Goodstart Early Learning, West Pymble, $14,962.24
• Larool Preschool, Thornleigh, $15,000
• Normanhurst West Community Preschool, Thornleigh, $15,000
• Pennant Hills War Memorial Children’s Centre, Pennant Hills, $11,030, and
• Koter Early Learning, Hornsby, $2,500.

“I know how important these services are to our community. It’s fantastic that, thanks to the NSW Liberal and Nationals, these early childhood services will benefit our young learners,” Mr Henskens said.  

Minister for Education and Early Learning Sarah Mitchell said nearly 300 services will benefit from the first round of the $21 million Quality and Participation Grants Program.

“These grants had an overwhelming response from the sector, which is fantastic because it means more children, especially from disadvantaged backgrounds, will benefit,” Ms Mitchell said.

"The NSW Liberal and Nationals Government is investing in our littlest learners, because we know the early years are incredibly important. These grants will help our amazing early childhood educators provide high-quality learning environments for children across the state.”

The funding can be used by services for a range of activities such as providing transport services to improve access, bringing in specialised staff for Aboriginal children and children from low-income families and minor capital works, such as renovations and new play areas.

The NSW Government is investing more than $15.9 billion in early childhood commitments announced as part of the 2022-23 budget to deliver a brighter future for every child in NSW.  

Through the introduction of a universal pre-Kindergarten year, the Brighter Beginnings initiatives, a workforce package for early childhood educators and the Affordable Preschool fee relief, the NSW Liberal and Nationals Government is ensuring NSW is the best state to live, work and raise a family.