Contracts have been awarded for the construction of four new public preschools to be colocated with exiting public schools in Far West NSW.
The new services include preschools at Menindee Central School, Parkes East Public School and Morgan Street Public School, and an Early Years Transition Centre at Bourke Public School.
Shape Australia Pty Ltd will deliver the projects, with construction expected to begin later this year and doors opening by early 2027. Once open, the four sites will cater for up to 320 local children a week.
They will join the recently opened Gulyangarri Public Preschool in Liverpool – the first new public preschool built in NSW in almost 20 years.
“Access to preschool can be difficult for young families, particularly in regional areas, which is why we are delivering new public preschools across towns in the state’s far west in areas where they are needed most,” said Acting Minister for Education and Early Learning, Courtney Houssos.
“The Minns Labor Government, with the advocacy of Deputy Premier Prue Car, is committed to improving access to free, quality public preschool for our youngest learners because we know how crucial early learning is for a child’s development.
“The former Liberal National government failed to deliver for young families in the regions and didn’t build a single new public preschool while in office.
“The Minns Labor Government made this historic commitment to deliver the biggest expansion in public preschools in NSW’s history because we strongly believe all children should have access to high-quality early education, no matter their postcode.”
Bourke Public School Executive Principal, Margaret Gordon-Poole said the start of construction for the new Early Years Transition Centre was an exciting step forward for the entire Bourke community.
“Having the Early Years Transition Centre on site will improve transition to school for our Kindergarten children, improve learning outcomes and offer convenience for parents,” said Ms Gordon-Poole.
Menindee Central School Executive Principal, Fiona Kelly said the new service will provide greater access and support for young children as they transition to Kindergarten.
“This is a wonderful opportunity for our families across the whole Menindee community,” said Ms Kelly.
“We are very excited to welcome our newest learners and support the beginning of their learning journey.”
Morgan Street Public School Principal, Scott Sanford said the local community was looking forward to having a public preschool on the same site as Morgan Street Public School.
“We are excited to welcome our youngest learners when the new preschool opens, as we understand the positive impact that quality early childhood education has on their learning,” said Mr Sanford.
