As we stride into 2024, Bishop Druitt College reaffirms its dedication to serving young families through its acclaimed Playgroups and Little Movers Programs. These initiatives have become vital pillars in our commitment to fostering early childhood development and community engagement.

Throughout 2023, our Playgroups saw active participation from over 60 families across four locations: Valla Beach, Urunga, Emerald Beach, and Bishop Druitt College itself. These gatherings have been pivotal in providing a nurturing environment for children to socialise, learn, and explore while fostering meaningful connections among families.

However, as we embark on this new year, we are excited to announce a strategic move for our northern beaches service. In 2024, we have relocated our Emerald Beach Playgroup to the vibrant setting of Woolgoolga, hosted at the newly established Wiigulga Sports Complex. This modern facility boasts a café and playground on-site, providing an enriched experience for families. The move has already garnered positive feedback, with families embracing the accessibility and amenities offered at the new location. To find out more about our free Playgroup experiences visit: https://www.bdc.nsw.edu.au/events/bdc-playgroup-locations

At the heart of our early childhood programs lies the renowned Little Movers initiative. Catering to preschool-aged children, this program offers a plethora of engaging activities designed to stimulate young minds and foster holistic development. In 2023, our dedicated team collaborated with esteemed local preschools such as Green Leaves, Faith Family, Three Bears Cottage, Footprints ELC, Lilly Pilly, Valla Beach Preschool, Billabong Kids, Brayside, Jetty Montessori, and Gamumbi. The program, though by invitation, welcomes inquiries from preschools interested in participating, underscoring our commitment to inclusivity and community outreach.

The Little Movers Program epitomises our belief in the transformative power of early education, providing children with a solid foundation for future learning and growth. Led by experienced BDC staff, these sessions are not only educational but also a source of joy and inspiration for young learners.

For those interested in registering their preschool for participation in the Little Movers Program, inquiries can be directed to ksmith@bdc.nsw.edu.au. We eagerly await the opportunity to extend our reach and impact to more young minds in our community.

As Bishop Druitt College continues to evolve and adapt to the needs of our community, our commitment to early childhood development remains unwavering. Through our Playgroups and Little Movers Programs, we strive to create a nurturing environment where every child can thrive and flourish. Join us in shaping the future of our community, one young mind at a time.

Nick Johnstone
Principal