Early Learning Centres
Northern Territory Catholic Education offers local kindergarten and preschool programs for children three to five years through our Early Learning Centres.
These are centres that:
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are founded on Catholic values and traditions
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encourage children in experiences that promote their desire for learning
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inspire younger children’s curiosity and the skills to explore and investigate
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promote the development of positive relationships
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support a safe, nurturing and home-like learning environment
Catholic Early Learning Centres are proud to provide the best quality early learning start for children.
NT Catholic Preschool Programs
Our preschool programs throughout the Northern Territory are based on the Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF) and use a play-based learning approach to nurture a love for learning. Preschool kindergarten provides an ideal setting for children to cultivate their natural curiosity and acquire specific skills in preparation for their transition to school.
The Northern Territory Government provides funding for children to attend preschool for free for up to 15 hours per week over 12 months. Preschool is available for:
- Children aged 4 years by 30 June in the year. Children who turn 4 years old after 30 June can still enrol but will attend more than 12 months of preschool.
- Children aged 3 years old who are in a very remote area. These children will need to be accompanied by parents or caretakers.
Northern Territory Catholic Education has early learning centres and preschool programs across Darwin, Palmerston, Humpty Doo, Katherine, Alice Springs, Daly River, Wadeye, Santa Teresa, and Wurrumiyanga.
What We Offer
Northern Territory Catholic Education’s preschool and kindergarten programs are designed to give children a strong foundation for future success in school and life. We are dedicated to nurturing the best in each child in our care through engaging play and learning sessions. When you enrol in any of our catholic preschools, you can expect:
- Caring and committed educators that put your child’s needs first›
- Consistent updates on the progress of your child’s development
- An inclusive and accepting environment conducive to learning
- Flexible hours and options for long-day care after preschool hours
Early Learning Centres
Alice Springs, NT 0871 Explore this School
Find out where our Early Learning Centre's are located
Frequently Asked Questions
My family does not hold catholic beliefs. Can my child still enrol?
Yes, our early learning centres and preschools are inclusive of all belief systems and backgrounds. Our centres' early learning curriculum is based primarily on the EYLF and supplemented by the teaching of faith-based values such as respect, honesty, and diligence.
Does the Early Childhood Services Subsidy apply to the centres?
Our preschool and kindergarten centres are approved for Early Childhood Services Subsidy. Early Childhood Services Subsidy can be claimed for long day care and 3-year-old kindergarten services at our centres.
What will my child learn in preschool?
During preschool, children learn valuable skills that will help them in their transition to school.
- Communication skills – learning how to express needs and feelings clearly
- Social skills – learning how to make friends and interact with others in a respectful way
- Emotional development – understanding and recognising individual feelings and the feelings of others.
- Focus and concentration – being able to devote attention to a single task and avoid distractions
- Problem-solving – learning and applying foundational concepts for literacy and math.
Is preschool compulsory in the Northern Territory?
No, but preschool is generally recommended as it helps prepare children to transition from early learning to a structured school environment. Transitioning to school can be a stressful and challenging time for children and parents. Children who attend preschool will be better prepared to adapt to the change.
When does enrolment start for preschool?
Preschool starts at the beginning of the school year, but each centre has its own enrolment dates. We encourage parents to check directly with the centres for the exact opening period.
Catholic Education Northern Territory acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of Country throughout Australia. We pay our respects to Elders past, present and future.
