In November 2022, the NSW government announced the first stage of a $5.8bn, 10-year investment in universal pre-Kindergarten education. Under the initiative, the state will introduce an extra year of education in the biggest reform of schooling in a generation, offering five days per week of pre-kindergarten to every four-year-old by 2030.
Long before this announcement, one Sydney boys' school was already recognising early childhood education's critical role in shaping young minds by not only building core foundational academic skills but also enhancing school readiness, fostering relational connections, and addressing each child's individual needs.
Mosman Prep, a leading all-boys school with a rich 120-year history, offers a unique educational experience for boys from Early Entry (pre-kindergarten) to Year 6. The school's innovative approach integrates play-based learning with a focus on core subjects, creative arts, languages, physical education, and spiritual and character development.
The school's Early Entry program, launched in 2007, boasts a proven track record of building core foundational academic skills, enhancing school readiness, fostering relational connections, and addressing individual needs.
Headmaster, Peter Grimes, says this extensive experience positions the school as a key resource in maximising this critical period in a boy’s development.
"At Mosman Prep, we've long championed the philosophy of nurturing young learners during their most formative years," Grimes said.
"Our Early Entry program, available in both 5-day and 3-day options, exemplifies this commitment by providing a stimulating and supportive environment that fosters a love of learning and lays a strong foundation for academic success."
The school is urging the government to consider established programs like theirs when developing the pre-kindergarten offering. "By leveraging existing expertise, we can achieve faster and more effective results," Grimes said.
"Mosman Preparatory School stands ready to collaborate and contribute its knowledge to ensure the success of this important initiative."