Our preschool

Why choose our public preschool?

Our Place is more than preschool — it’s a place to belong, connect and grow.

At Claymore Public School Preschool, we believe the best learning happens when children feel safe, valued, connected and inspired to explore. Our play-based program nurtures the whole child through experiences that build confidence, independence, curiosity, creativity and a lifelong love of learning.

What makes our preschool unique is our strong connection to Country, culture and community. Through our Play on Country program, learning extends beyond the preschool classroom and onto Dharawal Country. Children explore bushland, beaches and natural environments, learn Dharawal language, and develop a deep respect for Aboriginal culture, Country and the natural world.

Back at preschool, children learn through meaningful, hands-on experiences with our chickens, gardens, natural resources and open-ended play environments. Caring for living things, growing, creating, investigating and getting their hands dirty are all part of everyday learning. We value simple, authentic experiences that give children time to wonder, discover and make sense of their world.

As part of Claymore Public School, we see education as a P–6 journey that begins from the moment children join our preschool community. Our preschoolers regularly take part in learning, celebrations, events and experiences across the school, building relationships with teachers, students and the wider community. This creates a genuine sense of belonging and helps children develop confidence and familiarity long before they begin Kindergarten.

With experienced educators, intentional teaching, rich play experiences and a strong commitment to every child and family, we provide more than preparation for school. We build the foundations for belonging, learning and success throughout the P–6 journey.

Preschool days and hours

Our preschool is open for six hours each day, from 8:45am to 2:45pm, and follows the same school calendar as all NSW public schools.

Being part of Claymore Public School means our preschool day naturally follows the rhythm and routines of the school day. From the very beginning, children become familiar with the sights, sounds and everyday experiences of big school, helping them build confidence, independence and a strong sense of belonging.

This gentle familiarity supports a smooth and positive transition to Kindergarten when the time comes.

To learn more about our preschool hours and daily routine, please contact us.

Fees

NSW public preschools are proudly funded by the NSW Government, helping make high-quality early learning accessible to families in our community.

There are no fees to attend Claymore Public School Preschool.

We believe every child deserves the opportunity to experience high-quality early learning in a welcoming, inclusive and supportive environment where they can belong, grow and thrive.

Attendance

Our preschool program is designed for children in the year before they start school, giving them a valuable opportunity to build confidence, independence, friendships and a love of learning before beginning Kindergarten.

Children can enrol in preschool from the beginning of the school year if they turn four years of age before 31 July of that year.

Throughout their preschool year, children become familiar with our school, our community and the people around them, helping to build a strong sense of belonging and confidence as they take their first steps on their P–6 learning journey at Claymore Public School.

Meals

At Claymore Public School Preschool, we are proud to be a Munch & Move accredited service, supporting children to develop healthy eating and active lifestyle habits from the very beginning.

Children bring their own labelled lunchbox and water bottle each day. Our preschool day includes three dedicated meal times — fruit break, lunch and recess — giving children regular opportunities to refuel, hydrate and enjoy food together with their friends.

We encourage families to pack a variety of nutritious foods from a range of food groups. Water is our drink of choice, and children have access to their water throughout the day.

Mealtimes are about much more than eating. They provide valuable opportunities for children to build independence, healthy habits, social skills and positive relationships with food. Children are encouraged to open and manage their own lunchboxes, make choices, sit with friends and enjoy relaxed conversations with educators and peers.

Through Munch & Move, we bring together healthy eating, active play and wellbeing to help children build the foundations for healthy, happy learning.

How to enrol

We warmly welcome all families to apply for a place at Claymore Public School Preschool and become part of our vibrant P–6 school community.

Unlike NSW public schools, public preschools do not have designated intake areas, and enrolment is through an application process. Places are offered in accordance with NSW Department of Education enrolment procedures and preschool enrolment criteria.

We would love to welcome your family to Claymore Public School Preschool and begin this learning journey together.

Please note: Enrolment in our preschool does not guarantee a place at Claymore Public School for Kindergarten. Kindergarten enrolment is a separate process and is subject to NSW public school enrolment procedures.

Book a tour or join our waitlist

Come and see our preschool in action. Talk to our team and secure your child’s place.

Contact us