Start Strong Preschool Program at The Hills Long Day Preschool
The Hills Long Day Preschool proudly offers access to the NSW Government funded preschool start strong program, supporting families with affordable, high-quality early education while preparing children for a confident transition to school.
Our preschool programme is designed for children aged 3 to 6 years and focuses on learning through play, routine, and meaningful early learning experiences in a warm, family-owned environment.
What Is the NSW Start Strong Preschool Program?
The NSW funded preschool program provides fee relief for eligible children enrolled in approved preschool programmes delivered by qualified early childhood teachers.The programme is designed to ensure children receive a strong foundation in the year before school, supporting their social, emotional, and early learning development.
Who Can Access Start Strong Funded Preschool?
Your child may be eligible for preschool funding if they:
- Are 4 years old on or before 31 July in the year they attend preschool
- Are enrolled in a preschool program at an approved service
- Are an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or hold an eligible visa
Some 3-year-old children may also be eligible for funding, particularly those meeting priority or additional support criteria.
Our team is happy to guide families through eligibility and funding questions.
How Preschool Funding Supports Families
Preschool funding is applied directly to your child’s fees, helping reduce the cost of early learning. The amount of funding depends on attendance and eligibility, but is designed to make preschool more accessible for families.
This allows parents to focus on their child’s development while benefiting from cost support.
Our Preschool Program
At The Hills Long Day Preschool, our funded preschool programme prepares children for school in a calm, supportive, and engaging environment.
Our programme supports children to:
- Develop early literacy and numeracy skills
- Build social confidence and emotional resilience
- Learn through play, structured activities, and exploration
- Follow routines that support school readiness
- Grow independence and self-help skills
All learning experiences are guided by qualified educators who understand the importance of nurturing each child’s unique strengths.
Supporting a Smooth Transition to School
We place strong emphasis on helping children feel ready for school, emotionally, socially, and practically.
Through daily routines, group learning, and guided play, children become comfortable with structure while still enjoying the creativity and fun of early childhood education.
How to Enrol in Funded Preschool
Once your child is enrolled at The Hills Long Day Preschool, our team will help you with the required documentation and apply the preschool funding where you're eligible.
We are here to support families at every step of the enrolment process.
Why Families Choose The Hills Long Day Preschool
- Family-owned and operating for over 30 years
- Qualified and experienced early childhood educators
- Small, nurturing learning environment
- Preschool program for children aged 3–6
- Support with funded preschool applications
We are committed to providing a safe, welcoming space where children can learn, grow, and feel confident.
Enquire About Our Funded Preschool Program Today
If you’d like more information about the NSW-funded preschool program or to enrol your child at The Hills Long Day Preschool, we’d love to hear from you.
Please reach out to our team today to discuss availability, eligibility, and enrolment options via phone or the book a tour button.
FAQ
What is funded preschool in NSW?
Funded preschool in NSW is a government programme called Start Strong that provides fee relief for eligible children attending approved preschool programmes. It helps families access high-quality early education in the year before school.
Is preschool funding automatic in NSW?
No. While many children are eligible, families must be enrolled in an approved preschool programme and provide required documentation. Eligible funding is then applied directly to fees.
At what age does funded preschool start in NSW?
Most children are eligible starting at 4 years old, in the year before starting school. Some 3-year-olds may also be eligible, depending on individual circumstances.
How many hours of preschool are funded?
Funding is based on attendance hours in a preschool programme. Services apply the funding directly to fees, and the exact amount may vary.
Does funded preschool prepare children for school?
Yes. Funded preschool programmes focus on school readiness by supporting early literacy, numeracy, social skills, independence, and emotional development.
Can funded preschool be part of long day care?
Yes. Approved long day care services, like The Hills Long Day Preschool, can offer funded preschool programmes as part of their daily care model.
How do I apply for funded preschool?
Once your child is enrolled, the preschool will help you complete the required forms and, if eligible, apply the funding to your fees.