At Bilbies ELC & Kinder, our Preschool and Kindergarten programs support children aged 3–5 years as they develop the confidence, independence, and skills needed for school and life beyond.
Preschool is an important stage of early childhood education. It is a structured, play-based learning program delivered by qualified early childhood teachers and guided by Australia’s Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF) and the Victorian Early years Learning & Development Framework (VELDF)
These early years are when children build the foundations for lifelong learning. Through meaningful play, exploration, and guided teaching, children develop language, social, emotional, and cognitive skills that help them transition smoothly into primary school.
Our preschool program combines play-based learning, Montessori-inspired experiences, and intentional teaching creating meaningful opportunities for children to explore, discover, and grow.
At Bilbies ELC & Kinder in Keysborough, our Preschool and Kindergarten programs support children aged 3 to 6 years as they build the confidence, independence, and skills needed for school.
Our program is delivered by VIT-qualified early childhood teachers and follows the Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF), combining play-based learning with Montessori-inspired experiences.
Our preschool program supports the whole child, helping children develop across key areas of learning.
Social and Emotional Development
Children learn to recognise and express emotions, build friendships, and develop empathy for others. Group activities encourage cooperation, sharing, and problem-solving.
Language and Communication
Daily storytelling, conversations, and songs expand vocabulary and strengthen listening and speaking skills. Children are encouraged to share ideas and communicate confidently.
Early Literacy and Numeracy
Children explore letters, sounds, numbers, shapes, and patterns through hands-on activities and Montessori materials that make learning engaging and meaningful.
Physical Development
Movement activities and outdoor play support coordination and strength. Fine motor experiences such as drawing, cutting, and manipulating materials prepare children for writing.
Independence and Confidence
Children practise making choices, completing tasks, and caring for their learning environment. These experiences build independence and self-confidence.
Montessori-Inspired Learning
Our preschool environment incorporates Montessori principles where children learn through hands-on materials and real-world experiences.This approach encourages independence, concentration, and a love of learning.
Qualified Teachers and Educators
Our program is led by VIT-qualified teachers, Montessori trained educators and specialist experienced early childhood educators who build strong relationships with every child.
Individual Learning Goals
Our educators work closely with parents to set individual learning goals for your child, tailoring activities and experiences to nurture their unique strengths, interests, and learning style. Progress is shared regularly, allowing families to celebrate achievements and support their child’s growth together.
Learning Frameworks
Our preschool program is guided by the:
These frameworks ensure children learn through play, hands-on experiences, and intentional teaching that respects their natural development, interests, and pace.
Families at Bilbies ELC & Kinder can access Victorian Government funded free kindergarten programs delivered by qualified early childhood teachers.
Our preschool program includes:
Priority cohort funding may apply for children who meet certain eligibility criteria, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children, children in out-of-home care, or families experiencing vulnerability.
As a long day care centre, Bilbies ELC & Kinder provides wrap-around care alongside our funded kindergarten program.
This means children can attend their kindergarten program within a full-day early learning environment that supports working families.
Our centre offers:
This approach allows children to benefit from structured kindergarten learning while enjoying the stability of a full-day early learning environment.
Purposeful learning that nurtures independence, focus, and confidence
Our preschool program is supported by enrichment activities that expand children’s learning.
Children participate in:
These experiences help children explore their interests, develop new skills, and build confidence.
Research shows that children who participate in high-quality preschool programs are better prepared for school and future learning.
Preschool supports the development of:
These foundations help children begin school with curiosity, confidence, and a positive attitude toward learning.
Our preschool and kindergarten program in Keysborough provides children with a strong start to their learning journey.
Through play-based education, Montessori-inspired learning, funded kindergarten programs, and wrap-around care, children develop the confidence and skills needed to thrive at school and beyond.
We invite families to visit Bilbies ELC & Kinder to meet our educators and see our learning environment in action.
Book a tour today to learn more about our preschool and kindergarten programs.
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Keysborough kindergarten Centre
We offer 3-year-old, 4-year-old and Pre-Prep Victorian Government Funded Kindergarten program as part of the Best Start, Best Life reform. We provide an individual learning program for each child, thoughtfully designed support their interests while nurturing and extending their abilities.
At the heart of our approach is a strong partnership with families. We believe that open communication and collaboration between educators and parents are essential to every child’s success.
By working closely with you, we create a supportive, engaging, and personalized learning journey for your child.
Preschool programs are designed for children aged 3 to 6 years.
Yes. Eligible families can access Free Kinder funding for both 3-year-old and 4-year-old kindergarten programs.
Children who meet certain eligibility criteria may access up to 25 hours of funded kindergarten per week.
At Bilbies ELC & Kinder, kindergarten is delivered within our long day care program, allowing children to attend for the full day with wrap-around care.
Preschool helps children develop social, emotional, language, and thinking skills while becoming familiar with classroom routines and group learning.
We acknowledge the Bunurong people as the traditional custodians of
the land and waters where we play, live & teach. We pay our respect to
Elders past, present and emerging, celebrating the stories, culture
and traditions of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders of all
communities, who work, live and play on this land.