Early Childhood Development

In reply to Dr CLOSE (Port Adelaide—Deputy Leader of the Opposition) (26 September 2018). (Estimates Committee B)

The Hon. J.A.W. GARDNER (Morialta—Minister for Education):

Yes, this has been considered. An example of the Department for Education's expansion of services for vulnerable and disadvantaged children is the recent introduction of preschool bilingual playgroups. A total of 21 preschools receiving funding under the Preschool Bilingual Program have been approved and funded for a playgroup in 2018, enabling the preschools to employ 2 bilingual early childhood workers to facilitate the program.