Pre-Prep kids at graduation

Free Kindergarten Program

At Play & Learn, we’re proud to offer a Queensland Government-approved kindergarten (Pre-Prep) program as part of the Queensland Government Free Kindy initiative. Our university-qualified Early Childhood Teachers deliver engaging, play-based programs designed to prepare children for Prep and beyond.

Why families choose our Pre-Prep:

  • Free Kindy for all – Every eligible child receives 15 hours per week of free kindergarten for 40 weeks per year.

  • No extra cost incursions – Throughout the year, children take part in exciting incursions that spark curiosity and extend their learning, all included in your fees.

  • Flexibility for families – Our program runs within long day care hours, giving working parents and families with younger siblings greater convenience.

  • Play-based curriculum – Guided by the Queensland Kindergarten Learning Guidelines and the Early Years Learning Framework, learning is hands-on, fun, and developmentally tailored.

  • Flexible attendance – Children attend a minimum of two days a week, with the option to choose extra days to suit your family’s needs.

  • Year-round learning – Our program operates 48 weeks a year from 8:00am to 4:00pm, including during school holidays.

  • Healthy meals provided – All meals and snacks are freshly prepared onsite by our chef, supporting children’s growth and wellbeing.

  • Love of learning – We encourage every child to develop a lifelong curiosity, a love of books, and the confidence to explore new ideas.

  • 36 hours per fortnight guaranteed – Every kindergarten-aged child is entitled to this minimum, regardless of parent activity requirements.

  • School readiness focus – Our teachers work closely with local schools, arranging excursions and transition activities so children feel confident and familiar with their future learning environment.

Our Promise

We make sure every child experiences a smooth and positive transition into Prep, developing not just academic foundations but also resilience, social skills, and a genuine love of learning.

Free Kindy – Frequently Asked Questions

What is Free Kindy?
Free Kindy is a Queensland Government initiative that gives every eligible child 15 hours of free kindergarten each week for 40 weeks per year. It’s designed to make early learning more accessible for families while preparing children for school.

Who is eligible?
Children are eligible if they are:

  • 4 years old by 30 June in the year they start kindy, and

  • not already enrolled in another government-approved kindy program.

How does Free Kindy work at Play & Learn?
Our Pre-Prep program runs within our long day care hours. The government provides funding for 15 hours per week (or 600 hours a year), and we integrate this into your child’s normal enrolment. Families don’t have to apply separately — we take care of it all.

Do I still get Child Care Subsidy (CCS)?
Yes. Free Kindy funding is separate from the CCS. You’ll still receive your CCS on the remaining hours/days your child attends outside of the 15 funded hours.

What is included?
Everything your child needs for a great day:

  • Nutritious meals and snacks prepared onsite

  • All nappies, wipes, hats and sunscreen

  • A play-based curriculum guided by the Queensland Kindergarten Learning Guidelines and the Early Years Learning Framework

  • Extra incursions and activities at no additional cost

How many days can my child attend?
The program requires a minimum of two days per week. You can choose the days that work best for your family, and add more days if needed.

What hours does the program run?
Our program is delivered 8:00am to 4:00pm, 48 weeks per year, within our long day care service hours (6:30am – 6:30pm). This gives families flexibility beyond the government-funded 15 hours.

How does the program prepare children for school?
Our Bachelor-qualified Early Childhood Teachers deliver a play-based curriculum that builds early literacy, numeracy, problem-solving, social skills and independence. We also liaise with local schools, organise excursions, and focus on a smooth transition to Prep.

How do I enrol my child?
Simply complete our [Enrol Now] form or [Book a Tour]. Our team will guide you through eligibility, paperwork, and next steps to secure your place