Play . Be . Connect
At St Mary's Community Preschool (SMCP) we believe that children learn through play. Play invites thinking, relationships, discovery and growth. Early childhood is a pivotal time for development and by providing time and space for children to 'be', we honour each child's agency as learners. Joining a learning community such as SMCP, builds pathways and connections that scaffold lifelong learning not only in relation to people, but more importantly to place.
We are proud to hold a rating of 'Exceeding the National Quality Standards' by ACECQA https://www.startingblocks.gov.au/at-a-service/service-quality-ratings
As a community-based service we are passionate about advocating for Early Childhood Education and the longevity of our sector. We join with other local preschools in this important work as part of the Northern Rivers Preschool Alliance.
We are privileged to live, teach and learn on Bundjalung land.
We pay our respects to Elders past, present and emerging, acknowledging Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as the Traditional Custodians
– Always was, Always will be.
Community Based Preschool
The Start Strong for Community Preschools program provides funding to deliver affordable quality preschool education for 3 to 5 year old children enrolled in eligible community and mobile preschools in NSW.
From 2023, fee relief for families will be integrated into Start Strong and provide community and mobile preschools with sustainable long-term funding to deliver at least 600 hours of low, or no cost preschool to eligible children.
Start Strong for Community Preschools funding is provided for children in the two years before school and supports enrolment of at least 600 hours per year or 15 hours per week. Evidence shows that this level of participation in a quality early childhood education program in the two years before school is associated with better outcomes for children.
What We Love About SMCP ...
Our Partners
