Why are we expanding Tunstall Square Kindergarten?

    As of 2020, the Victorian School Building Authority's Building Blocks program has made grants available to support the implementation of early learning reforms. These reforms aim to ensure that every three-year-old child has access to at least five hours of kindergarten per week by 2022, with the goal of increasing this to 15 hours by 2029. The Tunstall Square Kindergarten took advantage of this opportunity and was awarded a grant to expand the facility, adding an additional two rooms to better meet the growing demand for kindergarten places within the Manningham community.

    When will construction commence?

    Works are expected to commence on site in April 2023 and be completed in February 2024

    What ecologically sustainable development (ESD) initiatives were considered?

    We’re committed to making more climate friendly choices now and into the future. We have designed the expansion to accommodate the following ESD initiatives:

    • Solar PV systems and energy efficiency
    • Passive design features
    • Eco-friendly, sustainable material specifications

    What will the expansion include?

    The Kindergarten expansion will be contained within the current boundary of the property and will not encroach on St Clems Reserve.

    The expansion will include an additional kindergarten room, new accessible toilets for children and adults, office, kitchenette and external storage space, as well as partial playspace upgrade. The existing ramp and external entrance will also be upgraded to provide compliant, universal access.

    We will also improve the carpark and pedestrian entry to the neighbouring Maternal and Child Health Centre (MCHC), and construct a new pedestrian path linking Russell Crescent and St Clems Reserve. For more information about the St Clems pedestrian path, please visit https://yoursay.manningham.vic.gov.au/st-clems-reserve

    What is the budget for the project

    The budget for this project is $1.4 million including a $744,700 contribution from the Victorian State Government. The ancillary works to the MCHC entrance, car park and path to St Clem’s Reserve are entirely funded by Manningham Council.

    When will the works occur?

    Works will occur on site (in line with Environmental Protection Agency guidelines) between 7.00am and 6.00pm on weekdays and 7.00am and 1.00pm on Saturdays. Please note, works outside of these hours may be required, if necessary.

    Will there be any disruption to the current facilities?

    During construction, the Tunstall Square Kindergarten will operate from temporary locations. For enrolment enquiries contact Tunstall Square Kindergarten on 0423 169 029 or email tunstall.square.kin@kindergarten.vic.gov.au

    The Maternal and Child Health Centre (MCHC) will also be closed for this period. All existing and new appointments will be rescheduled to one of our other MCHC in Manningham. Families will be provided with information on the location of their next appointment well in advance.