Just in time for the start of a new school year, Biralee Preschool has announced an exciting local partnership with Finley Regional Care.
Families will see no change as a result of the new partnership, until it comes to future expansion plans.
The day-to-day operations of the education service will remain unchanged when classes resume on February 2.
But there are plans afoot to build a new, fit-for-purpose education centre within the next few years.
It will grow the number of childcare places in the community, and the staff required to educate them.
FRC CEO Ben Levesque said the partnership has been several years in the making.
“Biralee approached us several years ago seeking support with the compliance side of providing their service to the community,” Mr Levesque said.
“It’s becoming increasingly difficult for a lot of committees to maintain membership and to keep up fundraising, so they approached our board to see what options were available.
“We are both community-based organisations, so it seemed like a good fit.
“So we started the long process of becoming approved early childhood education providers to deliver on that requested support.”
Mr Levesque said the new developments build on an existing informal partnership between the two organisations, which has resulted in preschool children interacting with and learning from FRC’s elderly residents over many years.
The return benefit is enhanced stimulation for the residents, which is proven scientifically to be beneficial for cognitive health.
In a letter sent to families this month, Biralee reaffirmed there would be no change to the way the service operates and is delivered.
“Biralee will continue to operate as a community-based, not-for-profit service, with enhanced governance support behind the scenes,” the letter said.
“This transition supports the ongoing growth and sustainability of our valued preschool and brings many benefits for staff, families, and the wider community.
“Day-to-day operations will remain the same.
“Biralee will continue to be managed by Ellen Goddard, our director and nominated supervisor - available Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday.
“Melissa, our business administration manager, is available Monday to Thursday in the office and is also happy to assist.”
The philosophy of Birralee Preschool is to encourage children to learn and grow by providing a foundation of developmentally appropriate experiences, allowing all children to succeed in a safe and nurturing environment.
For more information and to inquire about enrolments, go birraleepreschool.com.au or call 5883 1609.
In addition to its residential care facility, FRC also manages the Finley Medical Centre, Berrigan Medical Centre and the Alumuna aged living and retirement homes community.
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