Our History

Pope Road Kindergarten is a welcoming place where children, families and educators are valued and learn together; a philosophy that has guided our community since the very beginning.

Although Pope Road Kindergarten officially opened in 1952, the journey began in 1948. Inspired by conversations about innovative kindergartens in Europe, local residents Jean and Les Sutherland - Les a councillor at the time -set out to explore the need for a kindergarten in Blackburn. Community surveys revealed strong interest, leading to the formation of a committee that successfully negotiated the use of the Blackburn Presbyterian Church Sunday School Hall. From this, Blackburn’s first kindergarten, Blackburn Pre-school, was established and continues to operate today.

Following the success of this first kindergarten, the committee recognised the need for a second service. With no suitable hall available, they made the bold decision to construct their own building. Funding was scarce, and the kindergarten was brought to life through countless hours of volunteer effort from dedicated community members who raised funds and helped build the centre.

Pope Road Kindergarten was officially opened on 14 June 1952 by Lady Brooks, wife of the Governor, Sir Dallas Brooks, with 40 children enrolled.

The founders shared a strong belief in the value of early childhood education and the potential of young children - values that continue to shape our kindergarten today. 

As a public, stand-alone kindergarten, Pope Road has long relied on the commitment of families, staff and volunteers. Today, the kindergarten continues to be successfully managed by a volunteer Committee.

  • “Our son’s favourite days of the week are always his kinder days. The level of thought and care that goes into every moment of every child’s day at Pope Road is truly second to none. He is constantly surprising us with the new songs and discoveries he brings home, and we feel so incredibly grateful to be part of such a special community.”

    — PRK Parent

  • "Pope Road Kindergarten has been such a positive experience for our family. The educators are caring, attentive and truly invested in each child’s development. Our son looks forward to going every day, and we’ve seen him flourish socially and emotionally.”

    — PRK Parent

  • "Our family has had such a wonderful experience at PRK. The educators create a nurturing, engaging environment where children feel safe, supported and excited to learn. We’ve watched our son grow in confidence, curiosity and friendships — we couldn’t be happier with PRK."

    — PRK Parent

  • "Pope Road is the most special kindergarten in Whitehorse. The teaching team are dedicated, incredibly well-educated about early childhood development and identifying areas of concern, and always put the rights of the children first."

    — PRK Parent