For many families seeking a kindergarten, the question of community kindy vs childcare kindy often raises uncertainties. Does the kindergarten have high standards? Are the educators qualified, experienced and registered? Will the same educators be working with my child every day? Will my child be building friendships with the same children through the year? How will my child be supported and ready for Prep and life?
To answer these questions and more, parents should first identify the key differences between a community kindergarten and a childcare kindergarten.
Group Size
Better learning outcomes are achieved through smaller groups. At Edmonton Community Kindergarten, there is a maximum of 21 children at the kindergarten at any one time.
Educators
Unlike community kindergartens, not all childcare kindergarten educators are qualified and Queensland registered. Only registered educators can teach in schools.
School Readiness
The way in which a community kindergarten operates closely resembles school in that they have the same teacher every day, school hours and the same class of friends each day. Edmonton Community Kindergarten, co-director Carol Browning explains that, “seeing the same familiar faces everyday, having similar interests and experiences with others, all supported by the same educators during the day helps children feel safe and comfortable. Their confidence and joy soon develop as a result”.
Focus
Community kindergartens focus all of their training, education, development and resources on one age group.
What sets Edmonton Community Kindergarten apart?
Established for almost 25 years as a C&K affiliate, it is a well-respected member of the South Cairns community. Testimony to this are the families that return with their second, third and fourth children, year after year.
Exceeding the National Quality Standards
Edmonton Community Kindergarten has achieved this high rating because they go beyond the requirements of the National Quality Standards for early childhood education and care.
The Educators: The teaching teams are fully qualified and highly experienced professionals who truly enjoy working with children and their families. Educators have prior experiences in a range of settings, from childcare, primary and preschool, additional needs programs, university teaching and life experience as parents themselves.
Additional Support
Edmonton Community Kindergarten has an excellent reputation for supporting children who have additional learning needs and those who require help with social and emotional health skills. Teachers also effectively offer extended learning opportunities for children who need learning challenges.
See the difference for yourself. Contact C&K today for a no obligation tour.
