Additional support for children

We want all children to be able to take part in, and enjoy their learning during their time at early years settings in Merri-bek. 

Preschool Field Officer Program

The Preschool Field Officer (PSFO) service supports the participation of children with additional needs in kindergarten prgorams. This includes children enrolled in Three-Year-Old Kindergarten, Four-Year-Old Kindergarten, Pre-Prep and Early Start Kindergarten.

A Preschool Field Officer:

  • supports, guides and coaches early childhood educators. This supprt assists educators to deliver high quality programs.
  • consults with, and supports kindergarten staff on the planning, implementation and review of developmentally appropriate programs for all children
  • assists kindergartens to link families into supports and services available for children with developmental concerns and broader child and family supports.

Please refer to the Merri-bek Preschool Field Officer brochure.

For further information, please read Preschool Field Officer Program Fact Sheet or visit Preschool Field Officer program.vic.gov.au 

 Please discuss your child's development with their kindergarten teacher. The teacher can arrange a referral to the Preschool Field Officer program.

For further information:

Inclusion Support Program

Inclusion Professionals (IPs) support the access and participation of children with additional needs at Long Day Care, Family Day Care and School Holiday Program in Merri-bek.

An Inclusion Professional supports:

  • children from cultural and linguistically diverse (CALD) backgrounds, including refugee and Australian South Sea Islander children
  • children with ongoing high support needs, including children with a disability, and
  • Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children.

The Inclusion Support Program is delivered by the Victorian Inclusion Agency.