New research led by the University of Melbourne shows children who complete two years of kindergarten in Victoria are ahead in language, maths, and attention skills, highlighting the importance of quality early learning and educator support.
Children who complete two years of kindergarten in Victoria are arriving at school with stronger language, early maths and attention skills than peers who only attend for one year, according to new research led by the University of Melbourne.
The five-year study, due to be released on Thursday, found that children with both three-year-old and four-year-old kindergarten were about five months ahead in language comprehension and up to three months ahead in early numeracy and working memory. Professor Tricia Eadie, the lead researcher, said those gains matter once children enter a classroom for the first time because they help them listen, concentrate and respond to teaching.
The findings add fresh evidence to a long-running argument about the value of a second year of early learning. Victorian government material already says two years of quality kindergarten can improve language, pre-reading, number awareness, independence, concentration and social development, while Victoria University’s Mitchell Institute has argued that an extra year can be especially helpful for children facing disadvantage. The new EDGE study is the first to measure the impact of Victoria’s free kindergarten policy since its introduction in 2022.
The results also underline that access alone is not enough. Eadie said the benefits were seen among children attending 15 hours or more a week, but that the experience and availability of educators made a major difference. She said retaining skilled teachers and supporting kindergarten services properly would be essential if the state wanted universal three-year-old kindergarten to work as intended.
For parents, the research will be a familiar reminder that readiness for school is about more than letters and numbers. Jennie Ho, whose eldest child Kobe is due to start school next year after three years of kindergarten, said the setting had helped build his confidence, friendships and social development. Her comments reflect a wider concern in Victoria as the free kindergarten rollout expands: while the policy is designed to lift outcomes, some councils are warning of pressure on places, particularly in growth areas where housing density is also increasing.
Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical judgment, advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
