Exploring the beach and the bush is a perk of Surf Coast Shire Council's kindergartens, which will welcome registrations for 2027 later this month.
From Monday 20 April 2026, people can apply for a spot at Council's six kindergartens for next year.
Council is a proud provider of the Victorian Government's Free Kinder initiative, for both three-year-old and four-year-old programs.
Councillor Liz Pattison said beach and bush kinder was a favourite for children and parents.
"We were recently involved in Deakin University research which found it's incredibly beneficial for children to be out learning in nature," she said.
"Running around in the fresh air, coming up with imaginative play with each other, taking risks – it all builds confidence and resilience.
"It highlights how lucky we are to live in a beautiful part of the world with stunning areas to explore, no matter what age you are."
Council-operated kindergartens are Anglesea Kindergarten, Helen M Kininmonth Kindergarten Winchelsea, Jan Juc Pre-School, Kurrambee Myaring Kindergarten in north Torquay, Lorne Kindergarten and Torquay Kindergarten on Grossmans Road.
Interested families are invited to attend open days on:
- Monday 27 April from 4.30pm to 5.30pm: Jan Juc and Lorne.
- Wednesday 29 April from 4pm to 5pm: Anglesea, Kurrambee Myaring, Torquay, and Winchelsea.
Families are encouraged to submit their registration form before Friday 26 June 2026, when first round applications close.
Applications will remain open for second and third round offers.
To learn more and apply, visit surfcoast.vic.gov.au/kinder. The website features a video with Research Fellow Dr Chris Speldewinde, who shares how STEM teaching and learning occurs in nature.
