ABOUT US

GROUNDS AND FACILITIES

Robert Cochrane Kindergarten is a double unit kindergarten with recently refurbished playgrounds and established trees.

The playrooms facilitate significant natural light, and each have their own playground. The kindergarten offers opportunities for both indoor and outdoor play throughout the day.

The kindergarten community is responsible for maintaining and improving the building and playgrounds. Families help maintain our playgrounds through participation in Working Bees and the Gardening Duty Roster. The Working Bees foster a strong sense of community and keep our grounds looking beautiful.

HERITAGE LISTING

In February 2013, the kindergarten building was added to the Victorian Heritage Register (H2309). It is the only operating kindergarten to have its own listing. The building is a prototype for post-war kindergarten design.

For further details, follow the link to the Victorian Heritage Database and search using either "H2309" or "Robert Cochrane”.

HISTORY

The kindergarten was founded in 1911 by Robert Cochrane and initially operated from a Church Hall. In 1934, he donated land for a dedicated building. The current building was opened in April 1950.

Designed by architect Horace Tribe, it was widely acknowledged both locally and overseas as a fine, progressive and influential design. To this day, it provides a wonderful environment for children to develop and grow.

With the care of parents and volunteers, the building still retains a large amount of its original exterior and interior fabric.

COMMITTEE OF MANAGEMENT

Robert Cochrane Kindergarten is a non-profit incorporated association that is run by a Committee of Management. The Committee, which is made up of parents who volunteer their time, is responsible for all management decisions relating to the running of the kindergarten.