Free Kindergarten | Elm Tree Early Learning

15 Hours of Free Kindy – Now Available!

Families can now enrol their children in our Kindergarten program for 15 hours per week of free kindy, thanks to the Queensland Government’s initiative. Delivered as part of your child’s regular day, our experienced team provides a high-quality educational experience in a familiar and supportive setting.

Elm Tree Early Learning – Kindergarten Program

At Elm Tree Early Learning, our Kindergarten program offers a nurturing, play-based environment where children thrive. Rooted in our core values of connection, support, and empowerment, we create meaningful learning experiences that prepare children for school and life.

What makes our Kindy program special?

Empowered Learning: Children lead their learning through play and exploration, guided by qualified teachers who foster creativity and curiosity.
Supportive Environments: We promote emotional wellbeing, resilience, and social confidence in a safe, respectful space.
Connection & Community: Our program builds strong relationships across the centre and within the broader community.
Prepared for School, Ready for Life: Through hands-on activities, problem solving, and early literacy, we help children become confident, capable learners.

We invite you to schedule a tour or speak with our team to learn how our Kindergarten program can support your child’s journey.

Free Kindy at Elm Tree Early Learning – Q&A for Families

Q: What is the Free Kindy program?

A: The Queensland Government offers 15 hours per week of free kindergarten for eligible children, delivered over 40 weeks per year. Elm Tree Early Learning is an approved provider offering this program as part of our long day care service.

Q: Who is eligible?

A: Your child is eligible if they turn 4 years old by 30 June in the year they’ll attend kindy.

Q: How does it work at Elm Tree?

A: At Elm Tree, the Free Kindy program is delivered by a qualified early childhood teacher during regular care hours, Monday to Friday. The program is integrated into your child’s day and follows the Queensland Kindergarten Learning Guidelines.

Q: Is there a cost?

A: The 15 hours of kindy is free. However, any additional hours outside of the kindy program (as part of our extended care) will be charged as usual, with Child Care Subsidy (CCS) still applying if you’re eligible.

Q: What if my child attends full-time?

A: The kindy hours are included in your regular day. You’ll still receive a full day of care and education — the kindy program is embedded into their learning experience.

Q: How do I enrol in the Free Kindy program at Elm Tree?

A: If your child is the right age, they’re automatically eligible. Speak to our admin team to confirm your child’s place in the program or to check enrolment details.

Q: What does the kindy program include?

A: It’s a play-based program designed to support your child’s development in communication, early literacy and numeracy, social skills, self-confidence, and independence — all through meaningful, hands-on learning.

Q: Does my child need to be vaccinated?

A: Vaccination is not mandatory for the Free Kindy program, but please check with our centre manager as we follow the centre’s health and safety policies.

Q: Can I get information in another language?

A: Yes! Multilingual resources are available through the Queensland Government website.