Thousands of four-year-old children are taking an exciting step in their education today as the first intake of mid-year preschoolers gets underway.

About 4000 children will start preschool this week at 377 public preschools right across South Australia.

The State Government’s commitment to mid-year preschool intake is a significant component of its $72.4 million initiative giving families earlier access to high quality educational programs for their child.

This year’s mid-year intake allows students born in the middle of the year to start preschool at a time that is more appropriate to their age and their stage of development.

Children who turn 4 between 1 May and 31 October are eligible to commence preschool this term, while children who turn 4 between 1 November and 30 April are eligible to commence preschool in Term 1, 2024.

Enrolments are still open with families able to submit registrations of interest for preschool in 2024 (either for the start of the year or for mid-year commencement) using the registration of interest form: https://www.education.sa.gov.au/preschool-enrolment

A calculator is available on the Department for Education website to assist parents and carers to work out if their child will be eligible for enrolment in Term 1 or Term 3 of 2024.

Mid-year intake will start for reception students in July 2024.

Resuming the midyear intake, alongside the January one, will also help reduce the large age gaps in early year classes and differences in students’ development.

Children who start Reception in Term 1 will complete 4 terms of reception while children who start Reception mid-year in Term 3 will complete 6 terms of Reception.

“It is an exciting week for our new group of 13 children who are starting on their preschool journey with us at Lucy Morice Kindergarten," said Lucy Morice Kindergarten Director Lisa Ringwood.

“Preschool is an important time for children to learn through play, exploration and experimentation and we are looking forward to them joining our vibrant community of learners.”