The state government has expanded the bush kinder programs with two kindergartens in Pakenham and Officer receiving funding.
Emma Vulin MP announced two kindergartens will receive one-off grants of $6000 to offer a bush kinder program in 2024.
The successful recipients were Hollins Children’s Centre in Pakenham and Greenwood in Officer.
Bush kinder programs are delivered outdoors at places including parks, bushland and beaches – giving children a unique opportunity and freedom to learn through play with natural materials in outdoors.
The $6000 grants will help kindergartens buy the equipment they need to run programs that focus on getting outside, playing with natural materials, and learning through activities such as climbing trees and watching wildlife.
Kindergartens without access to a suitable off-site location can use their grant funding to enhance the biodiversity of their existing outdoor environment.
The 2024 expansion will see new bush kinder programs established in 52 local government areas, including 25 regional locations.
Of the 150 kinders receiving one-off grants, 100 are in Melbourne.
Bush kinder programs funded in this grant round start at the beginning of Term 3, 2024.
Applications for the 2025 round of another 150 bush kinder grants will open in the second half of 2024.
To find out which kindergartens are receiving a bush kinder grant, visit vic.gov.au/bush-kinder-grants program.
