Welcome to Wylie Cottage
Where little ones prepare for big school.
The first day of school is a big moment. That’s why our Preparatory Program is specifically designed to help 4-5 year-olds develop ‘school readiness’ before Kindergarten begins. By acquiring early access to learning experiences and nurturing relationships, children gain the confidence, social skills and foundational knowledge they need to truly thrive as they begin their formal education journey.
Our teaching approach
Every child deserves to feel confident, connected and safe. Our Preparatory Wellbeing Program gives them the tools they need to feel all three.
Kimochis® Social and Emotional Learning helps children to understand and manage their emotions. The program teaches children to respond constructively to challenging situations and make responsible decisions.
Developed by the Office of the Children’s Guardian for children aged 2–6, the SAFE Series teaches personal safety in language a young child can actually use. Children learn what a boundary is, how to notice when something doesn’t feel right, and that asking for help is always the right thing to do.
At Claremont, school readiness begins with our Preparatory Program, designed to provide children with a strong foundation for a successful transition to school. Our educational program is informed by current research and best practice in Early Childhood education, with our units of inquiry drawing on the principles of Reggio Emilia within an Australian context. Our curriculum is designed around a three-week cycle, providing children with diverse indoor and outdoor learning contexts that encourage curiosity, exploration, collaboration and play-based learning.
Our Preparatory students participate in a range of specialist learning experiences that extend their learning and develop their skills, interests and confidence. Specialist classes include PE, Music, Library Literature and Library Borrowing.
Days: Five-day core program, or limited two-day (Thu–Fri) and three-day (Mon-Wed) options.
Hours: Drop off to main campus from 8:15am or directly to Wylie Cottage from 8:40am. Our Preparatory program begins at 9:00am and concludes at 3:00pm.
Extended care: Before and after school 7am-6:00pm, via TeamKids.
A day in the life
There’s no such thing as an ‘average day’ at Claremont, but every day shares the same structure. From morning learning to afternoon tea, every part of your child’s day is shaped with care, to ensure they’re happy and engaged from the second they arrive to the moment they leave.
-
7am
TeamKids opens its doors
Preparatory students may access TeamKids Before School Care from 7:00am. Ideal for families who prefer an early drop off.
-
8:15am
Preparatory student drop off
Preparatory students are welcomed at the main grounds from 8:15am, or at Wylie Cottage from 8:40am.
-
9am
Morning gathering
Families are invited to our learning space from 8:40am and may stay until 9:00am, when our students explore their visual schedule and prepare for the day ahead.
-
9:15am - 11:15am
Morning learning
Lessons will focus on modules like Phonics and Literacy (PreLit) Program, Handwriting, Specialist Lesson (PE, Music, Literature, Library borrowing).
-
11:15am - 12:35pm
Lunch and outdoor play
Lunch and outdoor playtime allows children to develop their friendships and social skills through active, imaginative play, while enjoying some fresh air.
-
12:35pm - 1pm
Afternoon learning
After lunch, the lessons will focus on modules like Mathematics, Language and Communication, Social and Emotional Learning, Thinking and Self-regulation.
-
1pm - 1:30pm
Afternoon tea
During afternoon tea, children spend time sitting and playing together in smaller groups.
-
1:30pm - 2:30pm
Indoor inquiry
Children work in small groups, exploring purposeful indoor learning contexts, while focusing on their current research inquiry with the support of a staff member.
-
2:30pm - 3pm
End of day activity
Every day is brought to a close with a visit to our chapel or an end of day gathering with buddies.
-
3:00pm - 6:00pm
Team Kids Open
Preparatory students will be taken to TeamKids Before and After School Care if they are booked in for the day by Preparatory team at 3:00pm. Parents can pick them up at any time till 6:00pm
Mina Wylie’s legacy.
Our Wylie Cottage Preparatory bears the name of Mina Wylie, Claremont College alumna, Olympic silver-medallist, and one of only two women to swim for Australia at the 1912 Games.
Mina’s determination and pioneering spirit lives on in the cottage that carries her name. A nurturing environment where children are encouraged to dream big, build confidence, and start their educational journey with purpose.
The first chapter of their school story.
Speak to us to discover all you need to know about Wylie Cottage and why it’s the right place to start your child’s love of learning. You can take a tour of the new state-of-the-art facility built to nurture creativity, exploration and growth in every child.