Shining a spotlight on bush kinders

Watch and share a new video about children loving learning in the local environment.

Group of happy children consoling a girl

A new Koorie Kids Shine video about bush kinders shows how an outdoor learning environment is great for all children.

The short video is a resource for all kindergarten educators considering incorporating the local natural environment into learning, and for kindergartens considering joining the growing number of services offering a bush kinder program.

A focus on the environment supports children’s development, while providing an opportunity to connect with Country and learn about animals, nature, and Aboriginal culture and history.

The Victorian Government has recently announced $3.6 million to provide $6,000 grants to 150 kindergartens each year to help them establish bush kinder programs. Further information to be provided in coming months on this initiative.

We encourage educators to share the video with families and other community members, to help spread the message that outdoor environments make a positive difference to children’s learning.

To enquire about joining a bush kinder program, contact your regional Koorie education coordinator.

Koorie Kids Shine

Koorie Kids Shine was launched by the Victorian Government to help promote participation by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children in kindergarten programs.

The Koorie Kids Shine videos show:

  • the benefits of kindergarten for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children
  • how services create culturally safe places for Koorie children and families
  • how to enrol in free or low-cost kindergarten for 3- and 4-year-old children through Koorie Kids Shine.

Find out more

For more information, refer to Koorie Kids Shine and Bush Kinders.

Updated