By Xavier Smerdon
WYNDHAM Council has accelerated the construction of two kindergarten projects that will increase the number of places available by more than 200.
An extra 219 places will become available bringing the city’s capacity to 2,119.
But the council has that while there will be enough spaces for all the kids in the municipality, they may not be at the parent’s first preference kindergarten.
The council said that while there is adequate space for the current demand, it is important to provide for high demand areas such as Hoppers Crossing and Tarneit.
Wilmington Kindergarten in Hoppers Crossing, one of Wyndham’s most popular kindergartens, will see a 35 square metre extension to its internal play area which will allow for 69 extra children.
The project is now expected to be completed by the beginning of term 1 in February 2011.
The new Arndell Park Kindergarten is also being fast-tracked, and is expected to open at the same time as the Wilmington Kindergarten.
It will offer six new kindergarten groups, accommodating up to 150 children.
Wyndham mayor Heather Marcus said there will be enough space for every child, but the kindergarten might not be the parent’s first choice.
“Families living in Wyndham are in a lucky position as there are adequate kindergarten services to provide a place for children wishing to attend kindergarten in 2011,” Cr Marcus said.
“This may not necessarily be first preference kindergarten choice, which is commonly closest to the family home.
“With Wyndham experiencing the biggest baby boom in a generation and kindergarten participation rates at an all-time high, the City is taking action to support the provision of quality kindergarten education and ensure that adequate space is available for Wyndham parents.”
