The Queensland government has announced plans to open 25 new kindergartens across the state in 2014, allowing up to 1,000 more children to participate in early learning.
Of the 25 facilities, 15 will be built on state school sites, while the remaining ten will be spread across independent schools, existing kindergartens and long-day care services.
The proposals – which could provide opportunities for construction apprenticeships in Queensland – are currently in development, with state education minister John-Paul Langbroek saying the move will provide better learning outcomes.
“Most of the new kindergartens that will be opening next year are located in far-north, central and south-western communities, where there is the greatest demand for early childhood services,” Mr Langbroek explained.
He claimed the projects, which are being designed in line with the state’s commitment to the federal government’s National Partnership Agreement for Early Childhood Education, will be particularly helpful for regional and rural communities.
According to the minister, national and international research has revealed that kids who have been a part of high-quality education programs from a young age are often better prepared for starting school.
The news comes as 19 kindergartens already under development in Queensland near completion, with all due to open in 2013.
