C637Q Maternal and Child Health Service Review & Kindergarten Service Review

Summary and scope

In 2026, a new early learning centre delivering kindergarten and childcare is planned for completion. The centre will be located at the Wedderburn College (P-12) and run by Early Learning Victoria (ELV) https://www.earlylearning.vic.gov.au/ . Further details about the project and current status information is available at https://www.schoolbuildings.vic.gov.au/wedderburn-college-early-learning-and-childcare-centre-interim-name In 2026 kindergartens in the Loddon Shire area will transition to the Pre-prep delivery model. Pre-prep is the new name for the four year old kindergarten program, with an increase in the service hours from 15 hours to 16 to 20 hours per week initially, with a staged increase to 30 hours of service by 2036. As a result, Council will soon consider the future provision of kindergarten in Wedderburn. With the potential reduction of one service, and the introduction of Pre-prep into Loddon in 2026 it is important to review the viability of Council’s role as an Early Years Manager and the sustainability of the remaining four Loddon Shire Council kindergartens. Consideration of the financial impacts will accompany and understanding of the impact of the new ELV centre on staffing levels, service delivery, and overall community needs. The review will focus on the delivery of kindergarten services in Loddon Shire municipal area but may consider options that are of a wider neighbouring, regional/sub regional, or statewide nature.