Factors to consider
- Location: distance from home or work; access to public transport; parking options.
- Session times: number of days per week, morning or afternoon sessions, flexibility for work/life schedules.
- Program type: sessional kindergarten, long day care programs, school-based programs.
- Teaching philosophy and curriculum: play-based learning, social and emotional development focus.
- Facilities and outdoor play areas: indoor/outdoor spaces, playgrounds, accessibility features.
- Additional support: inclusion programs, support for children with learning or developmental needs.
Visiting & contacting providers
Arrange visits or attend open days to meet educators and see the facilities.
Ask about:
- educator qualifications
- program activities
- routine and structure
- parent involvement opportunities
Note: visiting helps assess if the program fits your child’s personality and family routine.
Ranking preferences for registration
- Decide which 3 kindergartens and sessions to include in your preferences.
- Prioritise based on location, session times, and program suitability.
- Keep a mix of first-choice and backup options.
There is no guarantee that you will get your first preference.
Visit our Register for Kindergarten page to access the form for submitting preferences.
Types of programs in Knox
Sessional kindergartens
- Taught in purpose-built centres.
- Taught by Early Childhood teachers.
- Sessional program.
- Set hours during school terms.
- Usually shorter sessions.
- Generally managed by volunteer parent committees and Early Year Managers.
Long day care kindergarten programs
- Integrated kindergarten; register via the childcare provider.
- Taught by Early Childhood teachers.
- When attending both day care and sessional kinder, the State Government only provides kinder funding for one provider. Speak to the long day care centre when enrolling your child.
School-based kindergarten
- Delivered on school sites; may include transition programs.
- Sometimes referred to as ELC’s (Early Learning Centres).
Kindergarten in Knox
Programs in Knox are offered across all of the above program types.
- Participating CRS kindergartens: register through the Central Registration Scheme; Council manages the allocation.
- Other sessional kindergartens: may operate in Council facilities but are not part of the CRS. Register directly with the provider; allocations are not managed by Council.
- Most kindergartens accept enquiries throughout the year. Contact the provider directly to arrange a visit.
Additional considerations
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- Check for inclusive practices, special needs support, and cultural or language programs.
- Consider program reputation and parent feedback if it's available.
- Review timetables, term dates, and holiday breaks.
- Look for the kinder tick – it identifies funded kindergarten programs.
- Programs led by qualified teachers
- Play-based learning
- Funded and approved by the Victorian Government
- Meets government guidelines and complies with the NQF (National Quality Framework)
- Find out more about the Kinder Tick on the Victorian Government website and use their Find a Kinder map tool to see locations of kindergarten programs that have the Kinder Tick.
Next steps
- Find a kindergarten - search and compare kindergartens in your area.
- Register for kindergarten - submit your preferences for your child.
- What is kindergarten - revisit key terms and program information.
Need help?
Contact us and we will get back to you.
Or call our Early Years team on 9298 8000.
