Early Childhood Learning Agency

Between April and December of 2008, the Early Childhood Learning Agency carried out a study of the feasibility of full day kindergarten for five-year-olds and the possibility of future full day pre-kindergarten programs for four-year-olds and three-year-olds. 

While government had hoped to be in a position to implement full day kindergarten in September 2009, the Speech from the Throne on February 17, 2009, and the provincial budget tabled on February 18, 2008, have made it clear that such implementation is not immediately feasible.

Three factors will delay the introduction of this new initiative: the current economic circumstances; the need to develop appropriate space; and the time to recruit qualified educators.  Together, these factors mean moving to full day kindergarten is not feasible for the 2009/10 school year. 

Instead, the Ministry of Education will focus over the coming year on foundational work, including staffing strategies, facilities planning and program development.  During 2009/2010, there will be continued expansion of StrongStart BC early learning programs. 

Based on the findings of the feasibility work and its commitment to expanding early learning, the British Columbia government is still committed to pursuing the vision for full day kindergarten and other enhanced early learning opportunities for our youngest learners as soon as reasonably possible. 

For more details, see the Early Childhood Learning Agency Report [107KB] for 2009/2010.