West Wimmera Shire Council has cancelled its three-year-old kindergarten program for the remainder of 2020 due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Corporate and community services director Ashley Roberts said the health and safety of staff and the community was a priority for the council.

“As you are no doubt aware, Australia is currently experiencing stage-three restrictions, due to the rapid spread of the virus known as COVID-19,” he said.

“Due to the current COVID-19, West Wimmera Shire Council has made the decision to cancel our three-year-old kindergarten service for the remainder of 2020.

“The decision to cancel the service is aimed at reducing social interaction in kindergartens, managing upgraded hygiene practices and reducing the risk of infection to both staff and families.”

Mr Roberts said kindergarten for four-year-old children would continue under a format determined by State Government direction – either remaining open or becoming an online platform. He said kindergarten teachers were planning for both delivery methods.

“We will let everybody know as soon as possible once we have direction,” he said. 

“Unlike the four-year-old kindergarten service that is partially funded by Department of Education and Training, our three-year-old kindergarten service does not receive this funding.”

In 2021, the Department of Education and Training will partially fund kindergarten for three-year-olds in West Wimmera Shire and provide further information regarding implementation later in the year.

“We understand this might cause some people concern and we greatly appreciate your understanding during this time,” Mr Roberts said. 

He said parents could visit website education.vic.gov.au/parents/Pages/coronavirus-advice-parents.aspx for more information.

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