A kindergarten may not be your typical venue for a 50th birthday celebration, but the exception can be made when the venue itself is hitting the milestone.
On Saturday, May 31, the Dr. Charles Prouse Kindergarten welcomed families, educators and staff – past and present – to join in on the festivities.
Since 1974, more than 3500 children have walked through the gate and some of them would have already celebrated their own 50th birthdays.
In that same period, 30 educators have made their mark on several generations of Wyndham residents.
Current educators Sue Warren and Angela Linehan are two of the longest serving stalwarts, with 28 and 13 years at the kindergarten, respectively.
Currently there are 38 four-year-olds and 19, three-year olds attending under their watch.
Namesake Dr Charles Prouse was Werribee’s first ever doctor.
The kindergarten has a long-standing commitment to nurturing young minds and building strong relationships, as well as the sense of belonging to a community.
Which probably explains why there are many former students returning years later as parents and enrolling their own children.
And why it exceeded the Department of Education rating recognition and education appreciation in the 2018 and 2023 national quality standards.
In recent years, the kinder has established a yarning circle, to symbolise their respect for storytelling, sharing, and fostering community.
