Some of the state’s littlest and most remote learners have been welcomed back to preschool for the first time in more than 12 months.
Member for the Dubbo electorate Dugald Saunders said the mini-school run by the Dubbo School of Distance Education (DSODE) is an incredibly important service, supporting 72 students who are geographically isolated and might not otherwise have access to preschool in the year before Kindergarten.
“I am thrilled that our ‘Preschool Pit-Stop’ is back up and running after the service was paused due to COVID,” Mr Saunders said.
“This is such a great opportunity for families. Distant education preschools cater for children who cannot physically access other early childhood education services on a regular basis.”
Minister for Education and Early Learning Sarah Mitchell said that this is a great experience for the youngest of learners.
“We need to be maximising preschool opportunities for children in all parts of the state, including our rural and remote locations,” Ms Mitchell said.
“Early education is vital for our youngest of learners’ development, particularly in the year before school so they have a solid foundation and a smooth transition to big school.
“I want every family and student in NSW to have an opportunity to quality education and this is an innovative way of achieving this.”
Principal Debbie Murray said students are visiting the Dubbo campus from May 23 to 26.
“The visit is important for all of our students, providing wonderful opportunities for them to interact with their peers, teachers and some of the school’s older primary students in a variety of classroom environments,” Ms Murray said.
“The students will be involved in an assortment of fun, hands-on and play activities during the week that will see them exploring their creativity, solving puzzles, cooking, sharing stories and learning together.
“The students will also work with Aboriginal artists to contribute to our brand new sandstone art wall mural, and will end with a fun afternoon at Dubbo’s newest adventure playground.
“We are looking forward to seeing our students and their families in person as we welcome them all back to our new learning spaces at the school.”
The DSODE preschool program operates four classes, with dedicated staff located at Broken Hill and Dubbo. Places are available for 2023 enrolment and interested families are encouraged to visit Distance education preschool (nsw.gov.au).