OSHC for preschoolers trial a success in the ACT

In 2020, the ACT Government launched a trial program of onsite outside of school hours care (OSHC) for ACT public preschool students. The program has been running in four preschools across the ACT – Duffy, Monash, Giralang and Palmerston.

In all four schools the trial was a success, ACT Minister for Education and Youth Affairs and Minister for Early Childhood Development Yvette Berry said, and each school is continuing to offer the program in 2021. Other public primary schools and care providers have indicated they are looking to offer this model as well.

“Delivering OSHC for preschoolers in the preschool environment reduces pressure on families, eliminates additional transitions for children, and strengthens relationships between families, the school and OSHC providers, enabling a more seamless experience for children and families,” Ms Berry explained.

An After-Hours Care Trial for ACT Public Preschool in 2020 – Evaluation Report has now been released in relation to the pilot. The report found that the trial has increased a collective understanding of children’s education and developmental needs through the rich sharing of knowledge.

To learn more about the OSHC program for preschoolers and read the After-Hours Care Trial for ACT Public Preschool in 2020 – Evaluation Report please see here.