As we look toward the future, we are pleased to share our December/January closure dates and operational dates for 2026. Whether you’re planning for term-only preschool, long day care, or our fun club and vacation care, this guide will help you stay informed and prepared. Please check the closure dates below for your service type. No fees are charged during this holiday closure period.
All Big Fat Smile services and head office break for the festive season. Head office will close from Thursday, 25 December 2025 to Friday, 2 January 2026, and re-open on Monday 5th January.
Term-Only Preschool 2026
Our term-only preschool program provides a nurturing environment for early education and care aligned with the primary school calendar. Here are the key dates for each term:
- Term 1: Monday, 2 February 2026 – Friday, 3 April 2026
- Term 2: Monday, 20 April 2026 – Friday, 3 July 2026
- Term 3: Monday, 20 July 2026 – Friday, 25 September 2026
- Term 4: Monday, 12 October 2026 – Friday, 18 December 2026
Long Day Care 2026
Our long day care service is designed to support families, with children aged birth to five, with flexible early education and care options throughout the year. Here are the important details:
- School Leavers
The last day of enrolment for school leavers is Wednesday, 24 December 2025, which also marks our final day of operation for 2025.
School leavers are welcome to join us on an occasional care basis in 2026, prior to the start of school, in consultation with your Centre Director.
- First Day of Operations for 2026
Long Day Care services will resume operations on Tuesday, 6 January 2026. All changes to enrolments for continuing and new children will take effect on this day.
To ensure you receive the full benefits of the Child Care Subsidy (CCS), your child must attend on both the first and last day of their enrolment. If attendance is not possible, please note that full fees will apply, as the Family Assistance Legislation prevents us from applying the CCS to absences at the start and end of an enrolment.
- Notice Period
A four-week written notice is required if you plan to withdraw your child from care or reduce their days of attendance during December and January.
Fun Club and Vacation Care
Our Fun Club and Vacation Care programs offer engaging activities for children outside of school hours and during school breaks. Here are the key dates:
- Before and After School Care
The last day of operation is Friday, 19 December 2025.
Services will resume on Monday, 2 February 2026.
- Vacation Care
Vacation care will be available on Monday, 22 December to Wednesday, 24 December 2025.
We will return on Monday, 5 January 2026, running through to Friday, 30 January 2026.
We are committed to providing a safe, supportive, and enriching environment for your children throughout the year. If you have any questions or need further assistance, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We look forward to another wonderful year with you and your family!
