Kindergarten is a transformative year, bridging the gap between early childhood and formal schooling. With so many options available, finding the right Kindy program and early learning service can feel overwhelming. At Out & About Care & Education in Mooloolah Valley, they’ve discovered the perfect formula for success. We took a closer look to see what sets them apart.
The importance of Kindergarten for school readiness
Research shows that the first five years of a child’s life are crucial for brain development. Kindergarten is where children refine their social, emotional, and cognitive skills, all essential for a smooth transition to school.
“Kindergarten gives children a fantastic start, and it’s not just about academics. They develop crucial social skills like sharing, turn-taking, and group work. These skills help them confidently navigate the school environment,” says Kim Newton, a seasoned Early Childhood Teacher at Out & About Mooloolah Valley.
Beyond social skills, Kindy fosters independence, language development, and motor skills. Children learn to manage their belongings, dress themselves, and engage in meaningful conversations. “This holistic development ensures they are ready not just for prep but for life,” Kim adds.

Kim Newton, Early Childhood Teacher at Out & About Early Education & Care, Mooloolah Valley

Brooke Gardiner, Early Childhood Teacher at Out & About Early Education & Care, Mooloolah Valley
Not all Kindys are equal
When choosing a Kindergarten, it’s essential to look beyond the surface. A key factor is having a qualified teacher in the room. For example, at Out & About, the Kindergarten room is always staffed with an experienced Early Childhood Teacher (ECT), ensuring consistent, high-quality education.
“Having a trained teacher in the room supports individual learning and helps identify any potential areas of concern,” says Brooke Gardiner, the lead ECT at O&A Mooloolah Valley. “We’re specifically trained in the developmental needs of children during these critical years. This expertise allows us to create engaging, play-based programs tailored to each child.”
Consistency is another hallmark of quality. At O&A, the Kindy room teaching is shared between two incredibly experienced and passionate teachers. Kim brings over 40 years of experience in early childhood teaching to the classroom, and Brooke has over 12 years. This dynamic ensures stability and continuity, which are crucial for young learners. “We’re a team,” Kim shares. “My experience pairs well with Brooke’s fresh perspective and energy, creating a balanced approach that benefits children and families.”
With educators like Brooke and Kim at the helm, children benefit from a blend of experience and innovation. “We love the magic of childhood and strive to make every day meaningful for the children,” Brooke shares.
Out & About also values community connections. Brooke highlights the unique experiences at Mooloolah Valley: “We’ve formed positive relationships with local schools, which supports smooth transitions for the children. Community excursions, like a recent fire truck visit, enrich our program and make learning exciting.”

The play kitchen at Out and About Early Learning Mooloolah Valley
A Kindy and a long daycare service
When choosing a Kindergarten, it’s important to consider whether it offers care outside of standard school hours. Traditional Kindergartens often operate only during school hours and terms, which can be challenging for working parents. A Kindergarten integrated with a long daycare service can provide the perfect solution.
“We are both a Kindergarten and a long day care service, so families can choose their hours and days, knowing their children will always be cared for and educated in a quality environment,” explains Pam Maclean, operator of Out & About.
This setup also ensures a seamless experience as children grow. “Children can enrol as babies and continue to Kindy without transitioning to another service. Siblings can stay together, offering added convenience for families,” Pam adds.
How the government free Kindy program works
To make Kindergarten more accessible, the Queensland Government offers a free Kindy program. Pam explains: “The funding applies to children who turn four by June 30 of the current year. It covers 15 hours of free Kindergarten each week, typically spread over two days.”
For families requiring care on top of those 15 hours, O&A offers “wrap-around hours” at a reasonable cost, which can be further reduced using the Child Care Subsidy. “This combination of free hours and subsidies makes Kindy much more affordable for families,” Pam notes.
Moreover, the government’s 10% wage increase for educators has been subsidised, ensuring it doesn’t lead to fee hikes. “We’re committed to keeping our fees manageable,” Pam says. “This year, our fees increased by only $3 a day, far less than the industry average. Our values-driven approach prioritises families over profits.”
Out & About Care & Education operates three centres across the Sunshine Coast:
Mooloolah Valley
6 Mooloolah Rd | 07 5356 9323 |
Maroochydore
2 Newspaper Place | 07 5413 8099 |
Maroochydore
30 Dalton Drive | 07 5479 1411 |
Limited places are available for Kindergarten 2025, so enrol now to secure your spot!
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