Understanding these differences will help you make an informed choice that best supports your child’s development and school readiness.
What is Preschool?
Preschool is an early childhood education program designed for children aged 3–5 years, usually in the year before they start formal schooling.
Key features of preschool include:
- Play-based learning with a focus on social, emotional, and cognitive development.
- Qualified early childhood teachers following the Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF).
- Programs often run part-time, aligned with school terms.
Preschools are called kindergartens in some states, while in others the term “preschool” is used exclusively.
What is Kindergarten?
Kindergarten in Australia can refer to either:
- The first year of formal primary school (in states like NSW and ACT), or
- A preschool program for children in the year before school (in states like QLD and VIC).
Kindergarten programs tend to:
- Offer structured early learning activities that prepare children for literacy, numeracy, and school routines.
- Be led by qualified teachers, often for 15 hours per week.
- Incorporate both play-based and academic-focused activities.
State and Territory Differences
| State/Territory | Preschool | Kindergarten |
|---|---|---|
| NSW | Year before primary school | First year of primary school |
| QLD | Often not used | Year before Prep (age 4 by June 30) |
| VIC | Often called Kindergarten | Offered for both 3- and 4-year-olds |
| SA | Same as Kindergarten | Same as Preschool |
| WA | Rarely used | For children turning 4 by June 30 |
| ACT | For children aged 4 | First year of primary school |
| TAS | Rarely used | Year before primary school |
| NT | For children aged 4 (earlier in remote areas) | Not typically used before school |
Benefits of Preschool and Kindergarten
Both preschool and kindergarten provide:
- School readiness skills – literacy, numeracy, and self-care.
- Social development – sharing, communication, and teamwork.
- Confidence building – adapting to structured routines.
- Emotional growth – resilience, empathy, and problem-solving.
Quick Tip: Even if attendance isn’t compulsory, enrolling your child can make the transition to formal schooling much smoother.
Choosing Between Preschool and Kindergarten
When deciding which program is right for your child, consider:
- Your location – definitions differ by state or territory.
- Your child’s age – check eligibility cut-off dates.
- Program style – community-based, long day care, or school-based.
- Your schedule – part-time vs extended hours.
- Cost – some states offer free or subsidised places.
FAQ
1. Is preschool compulsory in Australia?
No. Attendance is optional, but strongly recommended to prepare children for primary school.
2. What age should my child start kindergarten?
Usually age 4 in states where kindergarten is the year before school, or age 5 in states where it is the first year of primary school.
3. Can my child attend preschool and kindergarten?
Yes. In some states, your child may attend preschool before starting kindergarten if the terms refer to different years of learning.
4. What’s the main difference between preschool and childcare?
Childcare provides flexible, all-day care for children from infancy to school age, while preschool focuses on structured learning for children in the year or two before school.
Summary – Preschool vs Kindergarten in Australia
| Feature | Preschool | Kindergarten |
|---|---|---|
| Age Range | 3–5 years | 4–6 years (varies by state) |
| Purpose | Early learning & school readiness | School readiness or first formal school year |
| Learning Style | Play-based | Mix of play-based and structured academics |
| Schedule | Often part-time, school term based | Part-time (pre-school year) or full-time (school year) |
| Teacher Requirements | Early Childhood Teacher | Early Childhood or Primary Teacher |
| Compulsory? | No | Only in some states for first year of school |
Conclusion
While preschool and kindergarten both aim to prepare children for school, the terminology and structure vary across Australia. The best choice will depend on your child’s age, your location, and your family’s needs.
Lakeside Creative Minds offers nurturing, play-based learning environments that support each child’s unique journey into formal schooling. Explore our programs and discover how we can help your child thrive from their very first day.
Explore our preschool and kindergarten programs at Lakeside Creative Minds »
