Six preschools and daycare centres in Dubbo, Gulgong and Mudgee will be able to make improvements to their services thanks to funding from the NSW Government’s Quality Learning Environments (QLE) program.
Member for the Dubbo electorate Dugald Saunders said more than $80,000 has been allocated to centres in the region, with the program allowing for funding of up to $15,000 to purchase resources and activities which improve physical or educational learning environments.
The successful applicants are:
- Gulgong Preschool – $12,716.36 to replace old storage cupboards with a storeroom, and replace security fencing.
- Mudgee Preschool South Campus – $14,068 for solar panel installation, tap replacement and outdoor building blocks.
- Mudgee Preschool Kindergarten Cooperative – $14,997.73 to replace worn flooring and taps in the children’s bathroom.
- Gowrie Mudgee – $13,264.60 for creation of a multipurpose space, including heating, fans and lighting for year-round access.
- Gowrie Dubbo – $15,000 for creation of a sandpit with decking, a path and landscaped surrounds.
- Goodstart Dubbo – $14,939.28 for outdoor gross motor equipment, indoor furniture and replacement bedding.
Mr Saunders said the QLE grants are greatly welcomed in the community, especially after a tough year with drought, fire and COVID-19 for early childhood services.
“Early childhood education is incredibly important and these grants will help educators provide high-quality learning environments for our children,” he said. “As a government we are putting a big emphasis on the first 2000 days of life, and I’m glad to see so many of our early childcare centres will benefit from this program.”