Begin Your Child’s Learning Journey
Starting kindergarten is an exciting milestone for your family! We’re here to guide you through the enrolment process and help you make the best decision for your child’s early education.
Applications Open: 1 March 2026
Applications Close: 30 June 2026
Offers Sent: Mid-July 2026
Enrolment Confirmation: August 2026
Eligibility Requirements
🧸 3-Year-Old Kindergarten
Your child is eligible if they:
- Turn 3 by 30 April 2027
- Must be 3 before starting kindergarten
- Are ready for a group learning environment
🎒 4-Year-Old Kindergarten
Your child is eligible if they:
- Turn 4 by 30 April 2027
- Have completed 3-year-old kinder (recommended but not required)
- Are preparing for school transition
How to Apply
📝 Step-by-Step Enrolment Process
Step 1: Check Eligibility
Ensure your child meets age requirements and consider their readiness for kindergarten
Step 4: Await Offer
Offers are sent via email in mid-July through the parent portal
🖥️ Online Registration
All kindergarten registrations in Banyule are managed centrally through Council:
Apply Online
Website: banyule.vic.gov.au/kindergartens
Support Hotline: 9490 4222
Note: Paper forms are no longer available. All applications must be submitted online.
Priority of Access
Places are allocated according to Department of Education guidelines and Banyule Council policy:
🥇 Priority 1: High Priority Children
- Children at risk of abuse or neglect
- Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander children
- Children with additional needs
🥈 Priority 2: Local Families
- Families residing in Banyule
- Siblings of current/past students
- Children attending our 3-year-old program (for 4-year-old places)
🥉 Priority 3: General Access
- All other eligible children
- Non-Banyule residents
While we welcome all families, priority is given to those living in Montmorency and surrounding suburbs. View the full policy at Banyule Council's website.
What Happens Next?
📅 After You Apply
| When | What Happens |
|---|---|
| March-June | Applications processed by Council |
| July | First round offers sent via email |
| August | Accept offer |
| September | Sherbourne Pre-School to email with complete enrolment forms to be completed |
| November | Orientation Session |
| January | Final preparations and information |
| February | Kindergarten year begins! |
Preparing for Kindergarten
🎨 Getting Your Child Ready
Once your place is confirmed, help your child prepare by:
- Talking positively about kindergarten
- Reading books about starting kinder
- Practicing independence skills
- Attending orientation sessions
- Meeting other families at welcome events
📋 Required Documentation
Have these ready for enrolment confirmation:
- Birth certificate or passport
- Immunisation history statement
- Health care card (if applicable)
- Any court orders or parenting plans
- Additional needs documentation
Fees & Financial Support
💰 2026 Fee Structure
Free Kinder Program
Great news! Both 3 and 4-year-old kindergarten programs are FREE for eligible families under the Victorian Government's Free Kinder initiative.
View full fee information →🤝 Additional Support
Financial assistance available for:
- Excursion costs
- Resource contributions
Please speak with our Director about support options.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Common Enrolment Questions
Can I enrol if I don't live in Banyule?
Yes, but priority is given to Banyule residents. Non-resident applications are considered after local families.
What if my child has additional needs?
We welcome all children! Additional needs children receive priority access and we work with families to ensure appropriate support.
Can I defer my child's start date?
Yes, in consultation with the Director. We understand every child develops at their own pace.
How many places are available?
We offer multiple groups across the week. Exact numbers depend on government ratios and funding.
Take the Next Step
Ready to Join Our Preschool Family?
Don't miss out on securing your child's place at Sherbourne Preschool.
Applications for 2027 open on 1 March 2026.
Need Help with Enrolment?
Our team is here to support you through the enrolment process.
Sherbourne Preschool
📧 admin@sherbournepreschool.vic.edu.au
📞 9439 2992
Banyule Council Kindergarten Team
📞 9490 4222
🌐 banyule.vic.gov.au/kindergartens