A place to learn, play and belong
At Parkdale Preschool, we are a community-owned and operated sessional kindergarten that has been educating and nurturing children in the City of Kingston since 1948. Rated as Exceeding National Standards, we are proud to provide up to 15 hours/week of free, high-quality early childhood education to ensure your child gets the best possible start in life. Our kindergarten provides a hidden sanctuary nestled in the heart of Parkdale, where children can delight in playing in our amazing outdoor nature play space or engaging in the inviting learning activities set up in our light, modern, and inclusive classroom.
Our Program
Play-based learning is at the heart of our teaching and learning approach to early childhood education. Our teachers continually develop and maintain fun, enriching, and positive learning experiences to promote children's creativity, curiosity, critical thinking, and knowledge. Highlights of our program include our Stephanie Alexander Kitchen Garden program and our Neighbourhood Explorers Program, in which children in our four-year-old groups get out and about visiting local places in the community.
Our Teachers
Our wonderful, caring, long-standing teachers work across our three-year-old and four-year-old groups, ensuring they get to know and develop a strong connection with each individual child and their family. Guided by the national Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF), our teaching approach places emphasis on a child's individual learning, ensuring we are able to meet the personal needs of children from a range of backgrounds and abilities.
Community Involvement
Community involvement is integral to our operation, philosophy, and program. The kindergarten is governed by a volunteer parent committee, who oversee all operational and financial decisions. Various fundraising and social events are held throughout the year to foster social relationships between children and their families.
Our History
Parkdale Preschool has been an integral part of the local community for well over 70 years. In response to community need for a preschool in the local area, Parkdale Preschool first opened in 1948 at St. Aiden's Anglican Church hall in Parkers Road. In 1958, Parkdale Preschool moved to its permanent location in Alameda Place, following the kind donation of land by Mrs Ivy.
Accolades from Pleased Parents
The reviews are filled with praise for Parkdale Preschool, with all five authors giving the kindergarten a perfect 5-star rating. The parents are thrilled with the kindergarten's facilities, programs, and staff. They highlight the importance of community, social events, and opportunities for parents to get involved.
Outstanding Facilities and Programs
The kindergarten's facilities, including the outdoor play area, are praised by multiple parents. They note the variety of engaging activities on offer, the caring and approachable teachers, and the wonderful community atmosphere. Parents also appreciate the outdoor space, which provides a rare and essential part of a kindergarten environment. The programs, including excursions and incursions, are also highly praised.
Staff and Teachers
The teaching staff at Parkdale Preschool are consistently highlighted as exceptional. Parents describe them as passionate, nurturing, and caring, with a focus on supporting children's learning and development. The staff are also praised for being engaging and able to create a love of learning in their students.
