Blog

Preschool Excellence: Setting Children Up for Success from the Start

The Importance of the Preschool Years

Preschool is a vital early childhood education program designed to support children as they transition confidently into primary school. Guided by intentional learning experiences and underpinned by the Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF) and the National Quality Framework (NQF), preschool provides a balanced approach to learning through play and structured teaching.

Research consistently shows that children who participate in two years of high-quality preschool experience lasting academic, social, and emotional benefits. Preschool supports the development of:

• Strong communication and language skills
• Early literacy and numeracy foundations
• Social and emotional confidence
• Independence and resilience
• Critical thinking and problem-solving abilities

A high-quality preschool program lays a strong foundation for lifelong learning, supporting children’s success at school and beyond.

How Preschool Learning Is Delivered?

Preschool programs typically operate during school-style hours, 9:00am to 3:00pm, with a strong focus on school readiness. At Little Leo’s, children participate in a dedicated preschool learning block that reflects a school routine while remaining nurturing, engaging, and flexible.

Our program includes:

• Structured, curriculum-based learning experiences
• Qualified educators who support individual learning goals
• Purposeful use of learning resources, including interactive technology and learning books
• Educational incursions and excursions
• Group learning opportunities that build confidence and independence

Through these experiences, children develop essential “big school” skills such as listening, following routines, collaborating with peers, expressing ideas, and managing emotions, all within a supportive, play-based environment.

Our Little Leo’s Preschool Programs

Little Leo’s Early Education offers high-quality preschool programs delivered by tertiary-trained Early Learning Teachers. One of the greatest strengths of our preschool model is the seamless blend of structured learning with flexible, nurturing care.

Our families benefit from:

• Our extended opening hours until 6:00pm, so there’s no rush to collect your child for a 3:00pm pick-up
• Relaxed afternoons featuring nutritious snacks, free play, and extended learning opportunities
• The convenience of extended operating hours (11 hours per day)
• A consistent, familiar environment where children feel secure and supported throughout the da
• Our programs being available for 52 weeks of the year

Unlike stand-alone preschools that operate strictly during school hours and terms, long day care centres provide continuity of care while maintaining a strong, school-readiness-focused preschool curriculum.

Key Takeaway: Little Leo’s Preschool Program

Little Leo’s Preschool Program is a carefully designed learning journey for children from age 3 until they are ready for school, supporting their emotional, cognitive, social, and physical development.

Our program is:

• Aligned with the EYLF and NQF
• Delivered by passionate, highly qualified educators
• Individualised to meet each child’s unique learning needs
• Embedded within a nurturing and supportive long day care environment

At Little Leo’s, we are committed to fostering confident, curious learners who are well-prepared for their next step into school—while offering families the flexibility, continuity, and peace of mind that comes with a trusted long day care setting.