Kallista Kindergarten

Welcome to Kallista Kindergarten, located at Church Street 2 in Kallista, Australia. We are an establishment, point of interest, and school dedicated to empowering and inspiring Victoria's children and young people. Formerly known as TRY Australia, we are now Sparkways. Find out more about this change and how it might affect you on our website.

Since 1883, we have been supporting and empowering Melbourne's children and young people to help them thrive. Through meaningful connections and guidance from our dedicated staff, we have seen confidence grow and important social skills develop in our students, particularly as they progress through schooling life.

At Kallista Kindergarten, we are passionate about encouraging children to think critically and creatively. We believe in extending their thinking beyond what they consider to be the "right" answer. We encourage children to question why they think something is the answer and to explore different perspectives. By fostering deeper thinking and shared exploration, we open their minds to new ideas and possibilities.

Our approach to education is based on respect, responsibility, and community. We believe in allowing children the time and space to explore and discover their environment at their own pace. We encourage self-selected, self-directed play-based experiences that promote independent learning and collaboration with peers. Through both small and large group experiences, children have the opportunity to discuss, express, debate, theorize, reflect upon, and investigate their thoughts and ideas. Their voices are respected, and their knowledge and understanding flourish through interactions with their peers, teachers, and environment.

Our center offers a fabulous natural outdoor play area that connects children with the magnificent Dandenong Ranges. We believe in sustainable practices and environmentally conscious education, which is reflected in our indoor/outdoor space. Children are encouraged to actively explore, get dirty, and take risks, with a strong sensory focus.

We also foster a sustainable mindset with three vegetable gardens and a recycling and composting program. Our rooms are regularly updated to support the outcomes of the Early Years Learning Framework.

We offer various groups and sessions, such as the Nature Play AM and PM groups for 3-year-olds, which provide engaging and enriching experiences for children.

We are proud to be part of the Victorian Government's initiative to provide funding for high-quality kindergarten programs for children in the two years before they start school. Starting from 2023, kindergarten programs will be free for three and four-year-old children, saving families up to $2,500 per year. This initiative is part of the Victorian Government's Best Start, Best Life reform.

Communication with families is important to us, and we actively seek their input into our curriculum. We utilize platforms like Storypark to share learning and stay connected. Our documentation panels in the hallways showcase learning and provide opportunities for informal and formal discussions on a daily basis.

As a sun-safe organization, we provide child-friendly sunscreen. However, if your child has sensitive skin, you are welcome to provide your preferred brand. We respect that each child develops at their own rate and encourage families to have begun toilet training. We are committed to supporting each child's development and promoting a positive outcome. In the event of toileting accidents, our educators handle them sensitively and discreetly. We kindly request that families keep a complete change of clothes in their child's bag for such situations.

At Kallista Kindergarten, we acknowledge and pay our respects to the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we work, as well as to Elders past and present. We celebrate diversity and value the lived experience of people from every ethnicity, faith, age, disability, culture, language, gender identity, and sexual orientation.

Join us at Kallista Kindergarten and be part of a movement dedicated to empowering and inspiring Victoria's children and young people. Contact us today to learn more or schedule a visit.