Alister Henskens portrait
Alister Henskens portrait

Goodstart West Pymble

Playground equipment at Good Start Early Learning

Mr ALISTER HENSKENS (Ku-ring-gai—Minister for Families, Communities and Disability Services)—Last year, Goodstart Early Learning in West Pymble were successful in receiving a NSW Government Quality Learning Environment [QLE] Grant. They were awarded more than $12,000 to purchase new play equipment. With the children now enjoying the new addition to their play area, prior to lockdown, Centre Director Yifan (Evan) Hu invited me to tour the centre. With an intake capacity of just 34 children, Goodstart West Pymble feels more like a home than a centre. With an open plan design and dedicated learning spaces, including a craft corner and music corner, West Pymble's educational program focuses on the transition from pre-school to Kindergarten. During my visit I spoke with the staff who all expressed how rewarding their job is, including long-term employee Moui, who has been with Goodstart for 11 years and I even watched the children make a volcano – there were a few buddying scientists. Before leaving, I was presented with a magnificent piece of art, created by the children themselves with the guidance of the centres Aboriginal educator, Charlie. Thank you for having me and I look forward to visiting again.