In the April 2025 edition of Early Childhood Update, we provided an update on the Disability Inclusion Research in Kindergartens project and shared key findings from the first phase of this research.
This 2-year project is exploring ways to better support children with complex medical needs, disabilities or developmental delays in kindergarten settings.
The second and final phase of the research is about to begin. Expressions of interest (EOIs) will open soon for all funded kindergarten services. Instructions and the EOI form will be emailed directly to services.
What’s involved
Activities undertaken during second phase will include:
- refining and testing an updated KIS Profile with about 200 children and 150 services
- developing and testing options for expanded practice supports and guidance to improve the inclusion of children with additional needs
- collecting more data on the level and type of support needed for children with additional needs in funded kindergarten programs.
Services selected to take part will start testing the new evidence-informed inclusion supports from late Term 2, 2025. Research activities will continue during terms 3 and 4, 2025.
Each participating service will receive a research stipend of $3,000 as well as a tailored package of inclusion supports.
By taking part, your service will play an important role in creating a more inclusive and supportive kindergarten system for all Victorian children.
Find out more
For more information about the project, refer to the Disability Inclusion in Kindergartens research project fact sheet.
For further enquiries, contact the Inclusion Policy and Reform team by email: EC.Inclusion.Research@education.vic.gov.au
Updated