ECEC in focus : Mudgee Community Preschool earns Exceeding NQS rating across all Quality Areas

Mudgee Community Preschool has been recognised for its commitment to early learning excellence, receiving an Exceeding National Quality Standard (NQS) rating across all seven Quality Areas under the National Quality Framework.

Located in the Central West of New South Wales, Mudgee Community Preschool operates across two campuses, Lovejoy and South and has served the local community for more than 60 years. The not-for-profit, community-run service was recently assessed by the NSW Department of Education, with results confirming Exceeding ratings in every Quality Area of the NQS.

The result places the preschool among a select group of services nationally that achieve this level of consistent quality across all domains, including educational program and practice, health and safety, physical environment, staffing, relationships with children, partnerships with families and communities, and governance.

Preschool Director Angela Gallegos attributed the rating to the professionalism and dedication of the preschool’s educators and leadership team.

“We’re incredibly proud of this outcome, it’s a reflection of the hard work, commitment and values shared by our entire team,” Educational Leader, Kate Brakel said. “Our focus has always been on fostering strong relationships, delivering high-quality education, and maintaining meaningful connections with our community.”

At the heart of the preschool’s success is its team of passionate, qualified educators, many of whom have been with the service for several years. Ms Gallegos said their deep knowledge of child development and ongoing commitment to reflective practice played a crucial role in the assessment outcome.

“Our educators genuinely love what they do. Their ability to create safe, nurturing, and engaging environments for children is something families recognise and appreciate every day.”

When asked what the team is most proud of, Ms Brakel pointed to the preschool’s strong relationships with children, families, and the broader community.

“We’re proud of the culture we’ve created, one where children feel secure, educators feel supported, and families feel heard. That sense of connection underpins everything we do.”

The preschool is known for its inclusive and play-based curriculum, its engagement with families, and its focus on child-centred learning. Staff at both campuses work closely with children, families, allied health professionals and community stakeholders to deliver responsive and culturally safe programs.

Assessment and Rating reports cited the service’s intentional teaching practices, effective leadership and planning cycles, and ongoing professional development as key contributors to its success.

The Exceeding rating also highlights the role of community-based services in delivering quality outcomes for children. As a long-standing part of Mudgee’s educational landscape, the preschool continues to advocate for access, equity, and quality in early childhood education.

Further information about the preschool is available at mudgeecommunitypreschool.com.au.