Warriapendi Child and Parent Centre preschool’s multicultural program 

A special multicultural pre-school program at Warriapendi Child and Parent Centre in Balga, Western Australia is proving that language doesn’t have to be a barrier to an education.

More than 70 different languages have been spoken within the walls of the preschool over the years, with Warriapendi Primary School providing support to the program in conjunction with not-for-profit service provider, MercyCare.

For more than 10 years, the program has helped families, especially those new to Australia, to prepare their children for school. 

Since opening in 2014, more than 106,000 people have visited the centre, with up to 250 families attending every week.  

The program, Centre Coordinator Kirsty Maroney said, supports the diverse needs of the community by helping children develop social skills, confidence, and independence through play-based learning. 

“Many of our parents come from diverse backgrounds, have limited English and have no family here in Perth to help them look after their children,” Ms Maroney explained, “so our centre is like a welcoming community village”.  

The centre offers services such as speech therapy, parenting programs and child health services. Families struggling with cost of living pressures can also get help with nappies, food, clothing, and finance management workshops. 

Originally designed for local families, the program now attracts people from as far as Alkimos, in the northern suburbs, highlighting a wider need for such a service. 

As a former foster parent Ms Maroney understands the often complex needs of families, and of the importance of early support. 

“There is no parenting handbook, but with help of our in-house professionals and providing access to practical support, our families can and do thrive,” she said. 

“Our success in supporting so many people over the past 10 years shows just how vital centres like this are,” Ms Maroney added.

Learn more about Warriapendi Child and Parent Centre or MercyCare using the links provided.