Free kindy in South East Queensland is a government-funded program that provides free kindergarten education for eligible four-year-old children. This guide explains how the Queensland Free Kindy scheme works, which childcare centres participate, and how to find a provider near you. We cover eligibility, the difference between government kindy and private centres, and practical steps for enrolling your child in 2026.
Participating Childcare Providers
Not all childcare centres in Queensland offer free kindy. The program is delivered through approved providers that meet specific regulatory and operational standards. In South East Queensland, participation is widespread but not universal. Families should verify a centre's status before enrolling.
Little Scholars Participation
Little Scholars School of Early Learning is a participating provider across its 17 campuses in the Gold Coast, Brisbane, Ipswich, and Redland Bay. Every Little Scholars campus offers government-approved kindergarten, meaning eligible four-year-olds can access free kindy at any of these locations. The program is integrated into the centre's broader early learning curriculum, so children receive free kindy alongside play-based learning, STEM activities, and other enrichment programs.
How to Verify a Centre's Status
Queensland's Department of Education maintains a list of approved free kindy providers. You can search this list online or contact a centre directly to confirm their participation. Some private centres offer kindergarten but do not participate in the free scheme, meaning families pay full fees. Always ask specifically about "Queensland Free Kindy" rather than just "kindergarten" to avoid confusion.
Other Providers in the Region
Beyond Little Scholars, many other childcare groups and independent centres across South East Queensland participate in the program. Availability varies by suburb and demand. In high-demand areas, waitlists can form, so early enquiry is recommended. The key is to confirm the centre is on the approved provider list and has available places for your child's age group.
How Queensland Free Kindy Works
Queensland Free Kindy is a state government initiative that funds kindergarten education for eligible children. The program is designed to ensure every four-year-old in Queensland has access to free, high-quality early education before starting school.
Eligibility Criteria
Children are eligible for free kindy if they turn four years old before 31 July of the year they start kindergarten. For example, a child turning four in June 2026 is eligible for the 2026 kindergarten year. The program is available to all eligible children regardless of family income, employment status, or residency type, provided they live in Queensland.
What Is Covered
Free kindy covers the cost of kindergarten education for up to 600 hours per year. This typically translates to five hours of kindergarten per day, five days a week, over a 100-day school term. The program does not cover before or after-school care, meals, or other services outside the kindergarten session. Families may need to arrange separate care for times outside the funded kindergarten hours.
Program Structure
Kindergarten is delivered by qualified early childhood teachers in centres that meet the National Quality Standard. The curriculum is aligned with the Early Years Learning Framework, focusing on social, emotional, cognitive, and physical development. Children participate in structured learning activities, play-based experiences, and group interactions that prepare them for the transition to school.
Government Kindy vs. Private Centres
Families often wonder whether to enrol their child in a government school kindergarten or a private childcare centre. Both options provide free kindy under the Queensland scheme, but they differ in structure, hours, and additional services.
| Feature | Government School Kindy | Private Childcare Centre (e.g., Little Scholars) |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Free | Free for kindergarten hours; fees apply for additional care |
| Hours | Typically 5 hours per day, aligned with school term | Flexible; can combine free kindy with paid before/after care |
| Meals | Not included | Often included or available for purchase |
| Location | Attached to government schools | Standalone centres in residential areas |
Finding a Centre Near You
Choosing the right centre depends on your location, your child's needs, and the services you value. Here is how to find a participating provider in South East Queensland.
Search by Suburb
Start by identifying centres in your suburb or nearby areas. Little Scholars operates 17 campuses across the Gold Coast, Brisbane, Ipswich, and Redland Bay. You can find a campus near you by searching the Little Scholars locations page. Other providers may have centres in your area, so it is worth checking multiple options.
Book a Tour
Visiting a centre in person is the best way to assess fit. Look at the learning environment, meet the educators, and ask about the kindergarten program. At Little Scholars, you can book a tour of any campus to see the facilities and ask questions about the free kindy program. Tours are a good opportunity to observe how children engage in learning and how educators interact with them.
Check Availability
Availability varies by centre and time of year. Some centres have waitlists, especially in high-demand suburbs. Enquire early, ideally in the year before your child starts kindergarten, to secure a place. Little Scholars accepts enquiries and can advise on current availability at each campus.
Enrolment Steps and Timeline
Enrolling your child in free kindy involves a few key steps. Planning ahead ensures a smooth transition for your child and family.
Step 1: Confirm Eligibility
Verify that your child will turn four before 31 July of the kindergarten year. If they meet this criterion, they are eligible for free kindy. No income or employment tests apply.
Step 2: Choose a Provider
Research and select a participating centre. Consider location, hours, services, and your child's needs. Book a tour if possible to assess the environment.
Step 3: Submit an Enquiry
Contact the centre to express interest and check availability. Provide your child's details, including name, date of birth, and address. Some centres may require a formal application form.
Step 4: Complete Enrolment
Once a place is offered, complete the enrolment process. This typically involves signing agreements, providing emergency contact details, and paying any required deposits. The centre will guide you through the specific steps.
Step 5: Transition Support
Key Takeaways
- Queensland Free Kindy is a government-funded program that provides free kindergarten for eligible four-year-olds.
- Eligibility is based on age: children must turn four before 31 July of the kindergarten year.
- Not all childcare centres participate; verify a centre's status on the approved provider list.
- Little Scholars offers free kindy at all 17 campuses across South East Queensland.
- Free kindy covers up to 600 hours per year, typically five hours per day over a 100-day term.
- Private centres offer flexibility, allowing families to combine free kindy with paid before/after care.
- Book a tour and enquire early to secure a place, especially in high-demand areas.
- Transition programs can help children adjust to kindergarten and prepare for school.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is free kindy available at all Little Scholars campuses?
Yes. Little Scholars offers government-approved kindergarten at all 17 campuses across the Gold Coast, Brisbane, Ipswich, and Redland Bay. Eligible four-year-olds can access free kindy at any of these locations.
What are the eligibility requirements for Queensland Free Kindy?
Children are eligible if they turn four years old before 31 July of the year they start kindergarten. There are no income, employment, or residency tests beyond living in Queensland.
How many hours of free kindy are provided?
The program funds up to 600 hours of kindergarten per year. This typically translates to five hours per day, five days a week, over a 100-day school term.
Does free kindy cover before or after-school care?
No. Free kindy covers only the kindergarten session. Before and after-school care is not included and may be available for an additional fee at participating centres.
Can I combine free kindy with paid childcare at the same centre?
Yes. Many private centres, including Little Scholars, allow families to combine free kindy with paid before and after-school care. This creates a flexible, full-day solution for working families.
How do I find a participating centre near me?
Search the Queensland Department of Education's list of approved free kindy providers. You can also contact specific centres, such as Little Scholars, to confirm their participation and availability.
When should I enquire about a place?
It is recommended to enquire in the year before your child starts kindergarten. Availability varies by centre, and waitlists can form in high-demand areas. Early enquiry increases your chances of securing a place.
Do I need to apply to the government for free kindy?
No. You apply directly to the participating centre. The centre handles the funding arrangement with the government. You do not need to submit a separate application to the Department of Education.
Conclusion
Queensland Free Kindy is a valuable program that ensures every eligible four-year-old in the state has access to free, high-quality early education. Families in South East Queensland have a wide range of participating providers to choose from, including Little Scholars School of Early Learning. By understanding eligibility, verifying centre participation, and planning your enrolment early, you can secure a place that fits your family's needs. Little Scholars offers free kindy at all 17 campuses, combined with flexible care options and family support services. To find a campus near you or book a tour, visit the Little Scholars website or contact your local centre.