Overview

ACT public schools are welcoming community hubs, and school community playgroups are a way to develop stronger relationships and connections between schools and communities and support local families to access early learning opportunities.

Increasing the number of playgroups at ACT public schools is an initiative under Set up for Success: An Early Childhood Strategy for the ACT. These guidelines are designed to support interested ACT public schools to establish a school community playgroup.

What is a playgroup?

Playgroups meet regularly and are attended by families and caregivers of young children, usually aged from birth to 5 years.

Playgroups offer children the opportunity to play with other children of various ages, learn how to interact with adults beyond their parents or carers, and help children to develop social skills such as taking turns, playing with others and contributing as part of a group.

For adults, playgroups are an opportunity to socialise and make new friends, share tips, concerns, ideas and experiences, learn from other parents and caregivers, and connect with their local and school community.