Preschool Field Officer

The role of the Preschool Field Officer (PSFO) is to build the capacity of kindergarten teachers to provide an inclusive program which meets the developmental and learning requirements of children with additional needs.

Parental permission is required before the PSFO can work with the kindergarten teacher or speak with any involved specialists regarding the development and needs of their child. This is sought as part of the referral process.

The PSFO acts as a consultant and coach to the kindergarten teacher, rather than working directly with a child within a kindergarten setting.

The role of the PSFO includes:

• Gathering information about a child to identify how a teacher can best support them at kindergarten. This includes the child's participation at the service.
• Providing advice, information or strategies regarding the inclusion of an individual child into the kindergarten program.
• Advocating for children and families.
• Assisting with referrals to other child or family support groups and professionals.
• Provision of support and advice to parents/guardians.

This information and support is usually provided via the kindergarten teacher, respecting the existing relationship families have with their child's service.

With parent/guardian consent, PSFOs can support children with additional needs attending a government funded 3- and 4-year-old kindergarten program, including Early Start Kindergarten.

During term 4 of the year prior to attendance at a government funded kindergarten, PSFOs can support the transition into kindergarten for children presenting with developmental concerns.

The PSFO program Guidelines 2022 state that additional needs includes, but is not limited to:

• Children with developmental delays
• Children with language delays
• Children with disabilities
• Children with social/emotional needs
• Children with challenging behaviour
• Children who have or are experiencing the effects of trauma.

Referrals are designed to be completed by the kindergarten service in consultation with parents/guardians, but can also be submitted with parental consent by:

• Maternal and Child Health Nurses
• Therapists
• Doctors and Paediatricians
• Other family and children's service providers.

Early Childhood Educator Steps to complete a PSFO referral:

1. Discuss your concerns with the family/guardian

2. Complete the referral form in consultation with the family/guardian, there are sections for you both to complete

3. After submitting the form, wait for the PSFO officer to make contact Referral forms are available in the supporting documents section of this page.

For further information, please email the Preschool Field Officer or call 5624 2540.

The PSFO program is a State Government funded program and is available at no cost to all state funded kindergarten services.

If a child is a NDIS or an Early Intervention participant, kindergarten teachers in consultation with families, should first seek support from these providers.

In instances where NDIS does not include kindergarten support or services have been unable to offer supports, PSFO referrals may be submitted.