About Us
Jacaranda Preschool has been a part of the local community for 50 years. As a 36-place early childhood education centre, our aim is to inspire children aged 3-6 years through nature-based play to discover, explore, grow and learn.
The preschool was established by the Baptist Church in May 1969. It was the fifth Preschool Kindergarten to be established in the Grafton district and relied heavily on volunteers. It was hoped that the Preschool would “help develop a sense of responsibility, individuality and leadership in children that attended the preschool” (Mrs NG Weiley – Daily Examiner 26 May 1969).
The preschool was commonly known as the “Shoe House Preschool” in the late 70’s and 80’s. With a large “there was an old lady who lived in a shoe” taking up part of the playground. In November 2005 the preschool was at risk of closing and Clarence Valley Community Programs (now known as Livable) was approached to take ownership of the preschool. A private benefactor provided a loan to purchase the building from the Church, and Clarence Valley Council donated funds to cover the interest payments.
Today, Jacaranda Preschool is a thriving early childhood education centre that provides a creative, fun and safe place where little minds can let their imagination run wild.
This service is a recipient of funding under the NSW Department of Education’s Start Strong for Community Preschools program and fee relief is available for families of eligible children.
At Jacaranda Preschool, we believe in providing a safe, fun and supportive environment where all children are active participants in their learning through creativity, discovery and exploration.
We believe in:
Our professional and highly skilled educators engage, nurture, and support every child to help them strive to be the best they can be. They recognise and support all children’s play and learning personalities, which become the foundation of their learning program. Our educators undertake regular professional development to keep up to date on current processes and practices.
Interim Director, Guri Guri Room Leader, Early Childhood Teacher and Educational Leader
Educator
Educator
Educator
Educator
Educator
Educator
Room Leader, Gumgali Room
Educator
Educator
Educator
Educator
Jacaranda Preschool is a thriving early childhood education centre that provides a creative, fun and safe place where little minds can let their imagination run wild.
