- Five more Western Australianpublic schools to join the Cook Labor Government full-timekindergarten pilot programin2027
- Expansion delivers on election commitment to pilot free, optional full-time kindergarten in ten schools across the State
- Part of a $33.8 million investment in early childhood education to support WA children in getting the best start in life
Five more Western Australian public schools will offer free, optional full-time kindergarten in 2027, building on the pilot program's successful start in 2026 and delivering on a key Cook Labor Government election commitment.
Bambara Primary School in Padbury, Comet Bay Primary School in Secret Harbour, Clifton Park Primary School in Australind, One Arm Point Remote Community School on the Dampier Peninsula and Peg's Creek Primary School in Karratha will welcome kindergarten students five days a week from the start of the 2027 school year.
The successful initiative commenced in 2026 at Banksia Grove Primary School, Dalyellup Primary School, Halidon Primary School, Roleystone Community College and South Kalgoorlie Primary School, with strong uptake of the program across all sites.
The nation-leading pilot program provides teacher-led, play-based learning, with every classroom supported by two education assistants to ensure children receive high-quality early childhood education, while also saving families thousands of dollars in childcare costs.
Participation in the play-based pilot remains optional, with families able to choose how many days of kindergarten attendance is suitable for their child.
The full-timekindergarten pilotrepresentsa significant part ofthe WA Government's $33.8million investment in early childhood, which also includes the development of the WA Play Strategy, which is underway.
Led by the Office of Early Childhood, the WA Play Strategy will highlight the importance of play for children's learning and wellbeing across our community, including kindergarten and the early years of school.
As stated by Premier Roger Cook:
"Mygovernmentremains committed togiving WesternAustralianchildren the best possible start in life.
"We are pleased to be rolling out full-time kindergarten to more communities in Perth and regional WA in 2027, delivering an important election commitment.
"The pilot is providing children access to quality early education opportunities that support their learning and development, setting them up for success at school and beyond, while also helping more parents and families access an affordable early childhood education option."
As stated by Early Childhood Minister Sabine Winton:
"Every child deserves the opportunity to thrive from their very first years of learning.
"This trial is about giving children more time to learn through play and build the confidence, social skills and foundations they need for a positive start in life.
"The strong response we've seen in our first five pilot schools in 2026 has been incredibly encouraging, and I am excited to see five more schools join the program next year.
"The early years are some of the most important in a child's development, and our government will continue to back initiatives that prioritise supporting Western Australian children and families."
