We’re excited to announce that Gowrie Victoria has been selected as the provisional provider for several new kindergartens opening in 2026 and 2027. This opportunity is part of the Victorian Department of Education’s Kindergarten on School Sites (KOSS) program and marks a significant expansion of our services beyond metropolitan Melbourne.
This growth builds on the success of our Adult Learning programs, which have grown considerably over the last few years. We now employ coaches and mentors across the state, supporting services in all parts of Victoria.
In early 2026, we will open three new kindergartens on school sites: two in Geelong and one in Wyndham. Following this, we will open an additional three centres in 2027, located in Wyndham, Footscray, and Craigieburn.
Growing the number of kindergartens further strengthens our commitment to support the roll out of the Victorian Government’s ‘Best Start, Best Life’ reforms, one of the most significant early learning reforms happening in Australia. Gowrie CEO, Karen Weston, explains, “These reforms are some of the biggest that any jurisdiction is doing to increase kindergarten hours to 30 for four-year-olds, and to make sure three-year-olds have access to free kindergarten.”
Our involvement means we can extend our support to more children and families with high-quality early learning and care, particularly in regional areas. This aligns with our core purpose of demonstrating quality practice across the state. “We want more children to achieve their potential,” says Karen. “In our strategic plan, our aim is to grow the Gowrie Victoria services that build the capabilities of teachers and educators across Victoria.”
This is an opportunity that will enable us to build on the work we’ve done partnering with schools and communities within metro Melbourne and share our experience in regional Victoria. It means new opportunities to demonstrate high-quality practice in communities outside Melbourne and deliver better outcomes for those children and families across Victoria.
If you are interested in information about joining the team or a free kinder place for your child, please e-mail kinder.enquiries@gowrievictoria.org.au
