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Little learners of South Australia's Eyre Peninsula are set to benefit from Navigator College's transformative, two-stage project that will deliver a brand-new Early Learning Centre and Reception Village to its Port Lincoln campus.
Building the ELC is the first part of the groundbreaking construction project, which passed a significant milestone with the pouring of the foundation slab in September.
The expanded ELC has been situated to maximise natural light, and will feature a large undercover deck, nature-inspired play spaces, a piazza, and a multipurpose kitchen.
"We currently run a Kindergarten and long daycare centre for three and four-year-olds, with a total of 44 places, which has been at attendance capacity for some time," Navigator Business Manager Jane Hannemann explained.
Photos: (Top) Pictured (left to right) ELC Director Kelly Freeman, Klint Stott (Owner of Stotty's Building), and Principal Andrew Jericho. Aerial views of the slab pour in September (above & below). Credit: Robert Lang Photography
"The new build will see those places increase to at least 78 for the whole centre, including 12 places for two-year-olds.
"This will expand our support for our families and mean that we can nurture the students from two-years-old, right through to Year 12.
"We have been approved to offer three-year-old preschool from 2026, so this is also an exciting opportunity for our College."
The ELC is slated to open its doors for the start of Term 3 2026.
Photos: Little learners will benefit from the brand-new facility (above). An artist's rendering of the completed ELC (below).
Reception Village
Construction of the Reception Village will begin upon completion of the ELC expansion and is expected to open in 2027.
Situated next to the ELC, the Reception Village will facilitate a smooth transition for young learners, and will feature secure outdoor learning areas, a new maker space, and an internal gathering hub known as the 'Village Square'.
This visionary project is the latest positive outcome for the school and its community stemming from our strong, longstanding relationship.
"Navigator College has enjoyed a wonderful partnership with LLL from our earliest build, with the school opening in 2009," Jane added.
"LLL has helped to finance nearly all of our builds including Junior, Middle and Senior School."
Visit: www.navigator.sa.edu.au
