Friendly scarecrows
win community vote

For Grace Berglund Kindergarten, in Warragul, their approach to inclusivity is as much about what happens beyond the walls of their kinder as it is about what happens within their program.

The kindergarten entered their local Show’s Scarecrow Competition, with a number of carefully constructed characters clustered together outside the entrance of the service.

One of many initiatives where the kindergarten connects to the wider community throughout the year, the Scarecrow Competition created great interest. The community voted for their favourite scarecrow submission.

The entry was guided by the children, who were emphatic that their scarecrows should look inviting and reflect their inclusive approach, welcoming everyone into their kindergarten. The group of five figures was then designed and dressed in a way that they felt represented this – making sure that they had big beaming faces!

The team and children were elated when their entry won the competition! The prize of a $500 voucher was then used to further enhance their environment to respond to different needs.

A sensory and calming space in the playground is being created, with the funds being used for the central piece – a solar powered fountain.