Preschool & Kindergarten (3-5 Years)
School Readiness Program: Building Strong Foundations for Life
Choosing a preschool or kindergarten is more than a checklist, it’s about finding a place where your child feels safe, supported and inspired to thrive. At Papilio, our School Readiness Program is thoughtfully designed for children aged 3-5 years, guided by qualified early childhood teachers and experienced educators.
Your child will build the skills, confidence and curiosity they need for their next big step, starting school, all within the nurturing environment of Papilio long day care. It’s the final stage of our Lifelong Learning Curriculum, a research-based journey that begins in the nursery and evolves with your child every step of the way.
Learning That Matters: Project-Based, Play-Driven
At Papilio, school readiness means more than knowing letters and numbers, it means developing problem-solving skills, creative thinking and a lifelong love of learning.
Our project-based approach invites children to lead their own investigations, ask questions and collaborate with peers to explore real-world topics. Through hands-on, child-led experiences, your child will:
- Take ownership of their learning
- Develop independence and critical thinking
- Strengthen communication and collaboration
- Build resilience, self-esteem and a growth mindset
Exploring Technology with Purpose
Our educators integrate digital learning tools in purposeful, age-appropriate ways to extend learning, spark creativity and build foundational skills.
We use:
- Mathseeds - developing early maths understanding through games and activities
- Reading Eggs - supporting phonics, vocabulary and early literacy
- Creative tools - such as drawing and storytelling apps that enhance imagination
Technology at Papilio is always balanced with active, hands-on play and meaningful educator interactions.
Enrichment Programs That Go Beyond the Classroom
Papilio children benefit from a suite of enrichment programs that support the whole child — academically, socially and emotionally:
- Positive Living Skills - building confidence, empathy and emotional resilience
- Big Thinkers STEM - encouraging curiosity through hands-on science and engineering activities
- Aussie Wildlife Champions - fostering a love of nature and environmental awareness
These programs are woven into the weekly routine, ensuring your child’s learning is engaging, holistic and deeply meaningful.
Building Confidence for a Positive Start to School
We prepare children to succeed, not just academically, but socially and emotionally. By the time they leave Papilio, children are ready to:
- Follow routines and instructions
- Express their needs and regulate emotions
- Take turns and work cooperatively in group settings
- Recognise their own belongings and take responsibility
- Approach new challenges with confidence and curiosity
We also work closely with local schools and families to tailor each child’s individual transition plan, ensuring they feel prepared and excited for their first day.
Considering Two Years of Kindergarten or Preschool?
Some families find their child thrives with an extra year of preschool or kindergarten before school. Read our blog post to find out more.
A Day in the Life of a Preschooler or Kindergartener at Papilio
Our preschool and kindergarten days give your child the best of both worlds, a government-funded Kindergarten or Preschool program delivered by qualified teachers, within the convenience and consistency of long day care hours. A typical day might include:
- Continental breakfast with friends
- Warm welcome and one-on-one comfort if needed
- Outdoor movement or yoga in the fresh air
- Morning tea and maths talk
- Inquiry-based project learning
- Big Thinkers STEM session
- Nutritious lunch prepared fresh by our Centre Cook
- Rest or quiet activity time
- Creative writing and shared reading
- Afternoon tea and outdoor exploration
- Warm farewells and reflection on the day
Understanding Preschool & Kindergarten Funding
Navigating early education funding can feel overwhelming, but we’re here to make it simple. Wherever you live, your child can access a government-approved preschool or kindergarten program within our long day care hours, supported by qualified teachers and flexible sessions.
In Queensland:
- Kindergarten: Children can attend a Government-approved Kindergarten program in the year they turn 4 by June 30.
- Primary School: Children must start Prep (the first year of school) in the year they turn 5 by June 30.
Kindy programs are often delivered in child care settings like ours and follow the Queensland Kindergarten Learning Guideline.
Your Child’s Path to School Starts Here
Whether your child is three or almost five, our School Readiness Program provides the confidence, skills and love of learning they need for a positive start to primary school.
Enrolments are now open for children aged 3-5 years.