A new chapter in early childhood education is about to begin on Phillip Island. Opening in January 2026, Phillip Island Kindergarten (PIK) will offer an inspiring, play-based early learning experience for children aged three to five - in a setting that feels like home, because it is.
Built within a beautifully restored home at 39 Dunsmore Road, Cowes, PIK combines the warmth of a family environment with the professionalism of a purpose-built kindergarten.
Operating as a long day care service that includes funded kindergarten hours, it offers flexibility and quality for local families.
Vision years in the making
For Director D'Lene Johnson, the opening of PIK is the realisation of a vision more than two and a half years in the making.
"From the beginning, my dream was to create a space that reflects the joy, curiosity and creativity of childhood - a place where children feel safe, connected and inspired to learn," says D'Lene.
That dream is now becoming reality thanks to the State Government's Building Blocks Grant, which recognised the need for additional kindergarten places on the island.
Working with local building design company DB Design, D'Lene ensured every aspect - from layout to lighting - supports both children's wellbeing and educators' ability to provide exceptional education and care.
The architects have retained the character of the original home while introducing thoughtful design elements that enhance natural light, visibility and safety.
Outdoors, children will explore a natural play space featuring organic materials, sensory gardens and opportunities for discovery.
"We want to use our community as an extension of our program - the beach, the parks, the people," says D'Lene.
"Building strong local connections gives children a deep sense of belonging."
Construction by Excelcon has been meticulous, ensuring a high-quality finish ready to welcome children into an environment that invites curiosity and joy.
Experience and passion
With more than 35 years' experience in early childhood education, D'Lene Johnson brings exceptional leadership and expertise to Phillip Island Kindergarten.
Her career spans teaching, management, mentoring and senior leadership roles, including many years as Director of Early Learning at a leading Melbourne private school.
She holds a Master's degree in Early Childhood Leadership and has contributed to the sector as a Council Member of Early Childhood Australia (Victorian Branch) and as a speaker at national conferences.
Currently, D'Lene also serves as National Pedagogy Partner for a major early childhood organisation, leading the design and implementation of a planning model for educators across Australia.
At the heart of her philosophy is a simple, powerful belief: play is the foundation of all learning.
"Hands-on, inquiry-based experiences encourage children to become curious, capable and self-motivated learners," she says.
"Our role as educators is to nurture that natural drive to discover through meaningful, play-rich experiences."
Deep connection to the island
Phillip Island has long held a special place for D'Lene. Over the years, she has spent countless weekends and holidays at her family's Cowes home - and now, she's ready to make the island a more permanent base for herself and her family.
"I'm looking forward to becoming part of the Cowes community, meeting families and building lasting relationships," she says.
"What matters most is that families feel confident their child is in a kindergarten that truly focuses on happiness, learning, growth and discovery."
Flexibility and quality
Phillip Island Kindergarten is a private service operating 49 weeks a year, from 8am to 5.30pm, with 33 places per day. Children may begin attending from their third birthday and can attend from one to five days per week.
Unlike sessional kindergartens limited to 15 funded hours, PIK offers a five-day-a-week kindergarten program, giving families greater flexibility. Fees are offset by the Child Care Subsidy (CCS) for eligible families, and Free Kindergarten funding applies to remaining out-of-pocket fees for those nominating PIK as their funded kindergarten.
This model gives families the best of both worlds - the educational benefits of a kindergarten program and the practical support of long day care - in one beautiful, high-quality environment.
Open Days in November
To celebrate its completion, Phillip Island Kindergarten warmly invites the community to visit during its first Open Day on Friday November 1 (10am - 1pm) and again on Thursday November 13 (4pm - 7pm).
Families can explore the new learning spaces, meet D'Lene and the team, and discover how PIK's play-based programs nurture curiosity, confidence and connection.
Whether you're a local family seeking a strong start to your child's educational journey or simply curious to see how this new addition will enrich the island community, you're warmly invited to come along, play and be part of the excitement.
Phillip Island Kindergarten opens January 2026 at 39 Dunsmore Road, Cowes.
Now taking enrolments. To learn more, visit the website www.phillipislandkindergarten.com.au or call 0433 576 691.