Program duration

The 15 hours refers to the hours of operation of the teacher-delivered kindergarten program and includes all aspects of a typical early childhood program such as arrival, lunch, rest and departure routines. For example, a kindergarten program offered between 9am and 2pm three days per week would constitute the 15 hours of the kindergarten program. Alternatively a program operating from 8.30am to 4pm two days per week would also meet the 15 hours requirement for the program.

A service, such as long day care, may also choose to offer the kindergarten program five days a week.

It is reasonable to expect that the teacher will take a meal break during this period, consistent with their industrial arrangements, and suitable supervision of children will be provided, and be in place during that time.

As per the guidelines (see Section 3 - requirements of an Approved Kindergarten Program Provider 3.1.2 on page 5), program providers must display the kindergarten program operating hours, certificate and qualifications/registration details of teacher/s delivering the kindergarten program.

Yes. It is up to each individual service to determine how they will provide the program to best meet the needs of their children and families. For example, a service might offer a program:

a. For two days a week operating from 8.30am to 4.00pm each day
b. For three days a week operating from 9.00am to 2.00pm each day

In some instances children attending long day care services delivering a kindergarten program five days a week may participate in a kindergarten program for more than the minimum 15 hours a week.

Services are encouraged to consult with parents about the most suitable arrangements for program delivery to maximise attendance and ensure affordability for families.

Kindergarten program funding is available to approved programs operating at least 15 hours a week and 40 weeks a year.

Approved kindergarten program providers associated with non-state schools only can operate for at least 37 weeks during the school term, providing that the total number of kindergarten program delivery hours over the course of the year is equal to or greater than 600 hours (that is, equivalent to 15 hours a week for 40 weeks a year).

Yes, provided that the qualified teacher delivers the approved kindergarten program for at least 15 hours a week, 40 weeks a year. An appropriately qualified Group Leader can take the group for the remaining weeks of the year.