A highly sought-after community service, Woollahra Preschool, is facing possible changes that could affect its fees, structure and future direction, sparking concern among local families about what could be lost.
The discussion follows a meeting on March 23, 2026, where options to expand the preschool, review fees and seek state funding were formally considered, setting the stage for further consultation with families and staff.
A Preschool That Means More Than Childcare
For years, the preschool has been known for its structured learning environment, smaller peer groups and consistent teaching staff. Families say this model helps children transition into primary school while also giving them time at home.
Some parents describe the preschool as a place where children attend on set days each week, allowing friendships to develop over time. They say this rhythm creates a sense of stability that can be harder to achieve in services with more flexible, rotating attendance.
Others point to the role the preschool plays beyond the classroom. It is often described as a space where parents connect, share experiences and support one another through early childhood.
Concerns Over What Could Change
While no final decision has been made, some families are concerned that expanding the service could shift how it operates.
A petition circulating among parents says there are fears the preschool could move closer to a long day care-style model, even if a preschool program remains in place. Families involved in the campaign say they chose the current model for its balance between education and home life, and want to see that preserved.
There are also concerns about accessibility. If fees rise as part of the review, some parents worry it may become harder for local families to secure a place.
Questions have also been raised about how community feedback has been gathered, with some parents saying a survey referenced in the process focused on longer hours rather than broader structural changes.
Council Emphasises Quality and Access
At the same time, there is recognition that demand for places is growing.
The service review looked at whether more children could be accommodated, including through extended weeks of operation, additional hours or even new locations. The aim is to provide more families with access to early childhood education in an area where places are limited.
Part of the plan includes applying for funding from NSW’s Expanded Quality Access Program, designed to support expanded early learning services. This funding could help increase capacity, though details on how it would shape the service are still being worked through.
Council documents state that any expansion should maintain the current quality of care, highlighting this as a key priority moving forward.
The Reality of Running a Preschool
Behind the scenes, the review also examined how the preschool is funded.
Fees are currently set to cover the cost of running the service, rather than to generate profit. However, a recent reassessment found that some costs—such as overheads and building depreciation—had not been fully included in previous calculations.
Updating these figures would bring fees more in line with the actual cost of delivering the service, which is expected to lead to increases. While this is presented as a correction rather than a shift in policy, it has added to concerns about affordability.
Balancing Growth With Community Values
As the process continues, the focus is now on consultation.
A public meeting is expected to give families, staff and community members the chance to share their views. Further reporting is due before June 30, 2026, meaning there is still time for feedback to shape the outcome.
Published 10-April-2026
