The Early Learning and Care Centre with embedded kindergarten, which will be located at St Andrew’s Catholic College, Redlynch, is a joint venture between the Federal Government and the Bligh Government.

“This project will provide a five room centre with a capacity of 75 full-time places for children from six weeks to kindergarten age and include a quality kindergarten program in two rooms for 44 children,” Mr Wettenhall said.

Mr Wettenhall said the kindergarten service was part of the Bligh Government’s $321 million election commitment to provide access to quality kindy.

“We are building up to 240 kindergartens across the state that will form part of our focus on giving children a flying start into education,” he said.

Education and Training Minister Geoff Wilson said the Early Learning and Care Centre would be located on the grounds of St Andrew’s Catholic College, currently a P-12 school. “This will allow for an even smoother transition from kindy to Prep for students,” he said.

“It means parents who have kids in a number of year levels can drop them all off at the same place and it means we’re one step closer to ensuring all our children have access to a comprehensive early years education.”

Executive Director for Catholic Education and Services Dr Bill Sultmann praised the ‘substantial efforts’ by all in ensuring the kindergarten was built.

“Catholic Education is appreciative of the Minister’s special interest in this project and we thank local member Steve Wettenhall, along with members of the Queensland Catholic Education Commission who have supported this project.

“This project is symbolic of a new era and great opportunities for young children.

“St Andrew’s will be at the forefront of the state-wide roll-out with a state-of-the-art program.”