Gloucester Preschool has announced plans for the future development and expansion of the centre. 

AGL Energy Limited (AGL) head of Government and Community Relations, Tony Chappel said with financial support from the AGL Gloucester Independent Community Legacy Fund, the preschool is proposing new buildings, additional playground areas and is recruiting extra staff.

“We are pleased that the fund is providing such value to the community, and helping support families in the region,” Mr Chappel said.

Gloucester Preschool director, Elizabeth Price said the planned expansion will help meet the growing need for more local childcare placements.

“It’s not very often we hear of a preschool in a regional town undertaking large expansion plans, but that is exactly what Gloucester Preschool is doing,” she said.

“Our current expansion is backed by a solid business plan, and AGL’s support has helped turn this plan into a reality.

“Once our expansion is complete we will need an additional 13 early childhood educators to cater for the growth in numbers and extend operational hours. 

“This is a project we have worked on for some time to meet the changing needs for families using Gloucester Preschool,” Elizabeth said.

The Gloucester economy will also benefit from the expansion with plans for local contractors to be used throughout the project.

“The building plans are well underway and preliminary meetings have been held with MidCoast Council. 

“We are hoping to submit the development application shortly, and we are looking forward to starting construction,” said Elizabeth.

Kathryn Sterling was employed this year as part of the new staffing team who will run the long day service when it opens towards the end of the year.

Kathryn moved from the Central Coast to take up the position. 

“My husband and two children are enjoying Gloucester life. One of our children attends the preschool and the other attends the public school,” she said.

“I enjoy living closer to my family and making new friends with Gloucester families. I have found the locals very welcoming which has made it easy to settle into the Gloucester community.” 

Gloucester Preschool is a non-profit community based organisation and has been operating since 1972.