The future of Jamberoo Community Preschool remains uncertain following Kiama Council’s 10 December meeting, where Councillor Mike Cains presented a motion seeking assurances for the preschool’s continuity. Serving 67 families and with over 100 students on the waiting list, the preschool is a vital service for the village, but its current flood-prone location presents significant challenges.

The motion called for extending the preschool’s lease until an alternate site is available and ready for occupation. Despite efforts to identify new premises, including local churches and community facilities, no viable alternatives have been found, leaving the preschool dependent on its current location.

For now, the preschool remains an essential service for local families, with the added benefit of fostering strong community connections among Jamberoo’s youngest residents. Parents have stressed the importance of their children forming early friendships that support them to transition seamlessly into Jamberoo Public School, reinforcing the village’s social fabric.

Community support has rallied around linking the preschool’s relocation to the Golden Valley Way Stage 2 proposal. The developer has pledged to donate land for a new preschool if the project proceeds, but the Council’s housing strategy categorises the site as a long-term development, creating frustration for locals seeking immediate solutions.

The community has urged the Council to prioritise upgrades to the preschool building, a council-owned asset that is currently in a flood-prone location. These upgrades, essential for the building’s safety and readiness for future tenants, must begin now rather than waiting until the preschool relocates.

“The preschool is more than an education facility—it’s the heart of our community,” said a local parent. “We need the Council to provide certainty so families and children can continue to thrive.”

Extending the lease and upgrading the current facility while pursuing long-term solutions will be critical in supporting Jamberoo’s families and preserving its vibrant community spirit.