Our Preschool commenced operation in 1993 and caters for children from 3 to 5 years of age. Children can attend 5 days per week or alternatively have the option of attending the 2 (Thu-Fri) or 3 (Mon - Wed) day group only. Naturally, the progression towards becoming bilingual usually occurs when children have frequent exposure to languages. For this reason we recommend that children attend for 5 days. Our opening hours are from 8.30am until 3.30pm weekdays.
The Preschool program is based on an immersion language concept. Our aim is for all children to become bilingual, whilst acquiring the second language naturally just as they do with their native tongue. Non-German speakers are very welcome. This is the perfect age to lay the foundation for a bilingual education. Young children pick up new languages very quickly. Our highly qualified bilingual Preschool staff support each child’s individual language development.
We provide the children with a creative curriculum embedded in the NSW Curriculum Framework and the Early Years Learning Framework for Australia, Belonging, Being & Becoming. Within this they have the opportunity to explore the real world driven by their interests and needs. We view children as protagonists and encourage them to construct the curriculum together with parents and teachers.
We offer a strong focus on building relationships and concentrate on the ability to communicate and use dialogue. These are important skills the children will need as they progress through life.
Everyday we record observations of the children. These are presented in digital format and used to reflect on their learning.
We delight in the unexpected and seize opportunities in which to be spontaneous. Children are encouraged to think further about their learning and to become true inquirers. This results in the development of many group projects.
Each child has an individual portfolio that represents them both as an individual and as a group learner.
Fees:
As our Preschool is not funded by the German Government all operational costs have to be covered by parent fees. Australian legislation applies.
Our annual fees (for families/permanent residents) are:
2 day group (Thu - Fri): $ 4.730
3 day group (Mon-Wed): $ 6.900
5 days/week: $10.960
Because our Preschool is a "registered provider", depending on your income, you will be entitled to claim CCB (Child Care Benefit) if you are an Australian citizen or permanent resident. For conditions and information on how to access CCB contact the Family Assistance Office on 136150.
Limited spaces are available from January 2012.
Transition to School
As in the Preschool, German language skills are not a prerequisite when entering Kindergarten. Kindergarten is part of the official school system in Australia.
We aim to make the transition from Preschool into Kindergarten as easy as possible. A special transition program is offered to provide the children with extra support and there is close cooperation between the Preschool and Primary School.
To allow a smooth transition from Preschool into Kindergarten and from Kindergarten into Year One, one Preschool staff member remains with the children during at least 2 Kindergarten terms. The Kindergarten teacher then remains the class teacher of the children in Years One and Two.
Kindergarten is mandatory and children are taught 5 days per week from 8.45am am until 3.15 pm (the core tuition hours of the School). More about our Kindergarten can be found under Primary School.