The program giving little learners the support they need

Preschool Field Officer Jen Kelly knows how important it is to get preschoolers with additional needs the extra support they require early in their learning.

“An inclusive kindergarten program responds to the diversity and the needs of all children. It’s about creating an environment where all children feel a sense of belonging,” Jen said.

The Preschool Field Officer program (PSFO), a Victorian Government funded initiative run by Anglicare Victoria in City of Greater Bendigo, Campaspe, Loddon, Mount Alexander, Central Goldfields and Macedon Ranges, succeeds at just that: Providing meaningful support for children at kindergarten who need it.

“[Through the PSFO] we can provide all the supports that every child needs to have a great experience at kindergarten to have fun, to make friends, and to play and develop alongside their peers,” Jen said.

The Preschool Field Officer program provides short term guidance and coaching to early childhood educators working in Early Start, three-year-old and four-year-old kindergarten programs.

In 2023, the program supported 262 children across 64 early childhood education services.

To start, Preschool Field Officers work with teachers to organise an observation of the child in need of extra support. From there, they’ll meet with the parents or caregivers to understand the bigger picture and look at some strategies and referrals to support a child.

“My experience as a teacher informs everything that I do because I’m able to walk into an early childhood setting and understand what’s going on and know the day-to-day stresses … I can just be there for them and adapt and work out what they need on a really practical level,” Jen said.

Last year’s PSFO participant survey found 94 per cent of respondents were either satisfied or very satisfied with the overall program.

Early childhood educator Gail said she had seen “wonderful results” for one “little person” in her kindergarten class as a result of the program.

“Through strategies discussed with the Preschool Field Officer and parent, we’ve noticed positive outcomes in this little person’s overall wellbeing. [They’re] now able to independently attend group times and recognises when he needs time away from group,” she said.

“Having those warm and responsive interactions and discussions, coupled with the support, structure and guidance from the PSFO has really assisted this little person to develop positive self-regulation skills. It’s wonderful to see.”

Where can I get more information on the PSFO for my kindergarten?

You can contact your local Anglicare Victoria Preschool Field Officer Program at the following numbers:

  • Anglicare Victoria Bendigo
    Phone 03 5440 1100 or 03 5440 111
  • Anglicare Victoria Kyneton
    Phone 03 5421 2000
  • Anglicare Victoria Echuca
    Phone 03 5482 0910

Or email psfo@anglicarevic.org.au.

To learn more about the program across the state visit www.vic.gov.au/preschool-field-officer-program.

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