RIVERLAND schools are encouraged to apply for funding through new initiatives aimed at building the workforce and infrastructure needed for three-year-old preschool.
The State Government earlier this month announced the establishment of the Flying Start Infrastructure Grants program, which will see $40m invested over four years to support the not-for-profit sector in delivering new, or expanded facilities in areas with projected unmet demand for preschool
Grants of up to $100,000 are also available for organisations to develop innovative solutions in regional, rural and hard-to-staff locations, to support the delivery of three-year-old preschool programs.
This could include developing a shared educator or teacher model, where staff can be shared across multiple sites, or increasing retention through professional development and further training.
A third grant stream – ranging from $37,000 up to $185,000 over two years – is focused on supporting the creation, or expansion of networks among the early childhood workforce. 
Minister for Education Blair Boyer said addressing childhood developmental vulnerability in regional areas was a goal. 
“The Flying Start grants are laying the foundations for the biggest reform to early childhood the state has seen this century,” Mr Boyer said. 
“We are proud to continue investing in a strong and valued early childhood workforce and expanded preschool infrastructure for the three-year-old preschool rollout. 
“By applying for these grants, local communities, early childhood professionals and not-for-profit organisations can help shape the future of early childhood education. 
“This is a pivotal opportunity to build a strong, sustainable workforce and the necessary preschool infrastructure that will benefit communities for years to come.” 
Applications for the workforce grants close on Friday 21 March, with further details available by visiting the website (www.flyingstart.sa.gov.au/workforce-grants).
Meanwhile, applications for the infrastructure grants close on 2 May. The guidelines and market information on areas with unmet demand are now available online (www.earlychildhood.sa.gov.au/for-providers/investing-ininfrastructure).