Queanbeyan to gain 120 extra preschool spaces through Start Strong Capital Works

The Queanbeyan and District Preschool Association has secured a $600,000 grant to transform their Cooma Street property in Karabar into a three-classroom preschool as part of the broader NSW Government Start Strong Capital Works Grants Program. 

Nationals member for Monaro, John Barilaro visited the preschool to make the announcement earlier this month, noting that the investment will make a huge difference in the community, creating much needed preschool spaces for local families. 

“We are seeing significant growth across the region, particularly in areas like Googong and Jerrabomberra, and we know that this is putting extra pressure on existing preschools, who already have a waiting list for next year,” Mr Barilaro said.

“This major transformation will not only significantly increase access to early childhood education locally, but it will ensure our children have the best start to their learning journey.”

Queanbeyan and District Preschool Association Managing Director Nicky McCarthy said the grant provides the critical funding needed to renovate Cooma Street into a three classroom preschool, providing a significant boost to the local preschool network.

With construction to start shortly, the Association will work closely with the NSW Department of Education, families and the broader community to deliver the new preschool in early 2022.

The Start Strong Capital Works Grant Program supports services to increase the number of preschool places available, equipping more children with the social, cognitive and emotional skills that set them up for future learning in their life.

For more information on the Start Stronger Capital Works Grants, visit education.nsw.gov.au