Photo caption: Northern Tablelands MP Adam Marshall, left, with Warialda Public School Principal Dan van Velthuizen this week, discussing the exciting news of the planned co-located preschool for the school.
Wednesday, 21 February 2024
NORTHERN Tablelands MP Adam Marshall has welcomed news that Warialda and Toomelah Public Schools have been chosen, among 49 sites across NSW, for the construction of new co-located preschools.
Mr Marshall visited Warialda Public School earlier this week to discuss the impact the new preschool will have with Principal Dan van Velthuizen.
“This announcement is great news for local youngsters and families in the Warialda and Toomelah communities,” Mr Marshall said.
“These new preschools will help ensure children are ready for kindergarten, making the transition to school as seamless as possible.
“We cannot underestimate the power of early childhood education and the importance of children having access to free, five days per week, play-based learning in the year before school.
“Investment in early childhood services in the regions is critical to ensure our children are starting school with the emotional, social, and cognitive skills they need.
“These two new preschools will open up more preschool places and greater opportunities for future generations of youngsters.”
Mr Marshall said Warialda and Toomelah Public Schools were selected by the Department of Education because of a range of factors including educational need, child development and socioeconomic data, preschool demand, infrastructure feasibility and insights gained through consultation.
“No matter where you grow up, it should not determine your access to a good education, even before you begin school,” Mr Marshall said.
“Both school communities are excited by this news and cannot wait to see construction begin.
“When the Parliament returns I’ll be asking the Minister for Education for timeframes on the delivery of both these new preschools.”