NSW Department of Education and SDN Children’s Services launch Referrers Project

SDN Children’s Services has created a new initiative – the Referrers Project – to streamline the enrolment process for vulnerable families seeking early learning and preschool services in New South Wales.

Funded by a grant from the NSW Department of Education, the  Referrers Project tools are designed to build a bridge between referrers, centre staff and families, ensuring they are all on the same page about the steps a family needs to take when enrolling their child in early learning.  

“The Referrers Project provides a structured, step-by-step roadmap to help families make informed decisions about their child’s early education,” Fernanda Brarda, SDN Customer Experience &  Data Insights Specialist said.

“With an easy-to-follow checklist and practical guidance, this initiative simplifies what can  sometimes be an overwhelming process.” 

Simplified enrolment support  

The Referrers Project is built around an enrolment checklist that guides families through five  essential phases:

• Prepare – Gather necessary documents and determine eligibility for government funding. • Find – Research early childhood education centres and schedule visits. 

• Visit – Learn key questions to ask and understand the waiting list process. • Enrol – Complete formal enrolment and apply for financial assistance. 

• Settle – Support a smooth transition, including orientation sessions and early adjustment  strategies. 

Additional resources for families  

To further assist families, the Referrers Project also includes: 

• A short informational video explaining the enrollment steps. 

• A downloadable checklist for easy reference. 

• Key links to critical services, including CRN registration, Child Care Subsidy (CCS)  applications, and language support for non-English speakers. 

• A printed version of the checklist featuring a QR code that directs families to SDN’s online  resources for up-to-date information. 

Accessible and widely available  

Families and caseworkers can also visit SDN’s dedicated web page to download and print their own copies. For more information about the Referrers Project and to access its resources, please visit the SDN webpage here.