Progress Kindergarten was established in 1947, following recognition that there was a need for a kindergarten to serve the local community in the ‘Whiskey Hill’ area of Ascot Vale.
The local Men’s Progress Association took on the task of fundraising to purchase a block of land on which to build the kindergarten. The Women’s Progress Association also joined the effort and an amazing number of fundraisers began. Coupons for butter and other food items, and even ladies silk stockings, were used to raise the money that would be needed.
Meeting minutes show that the then City of Essendon Mayor and Councillors also rallied and supported the community efforts in their endeavour to raise the necessary funds. Eventually the block of land on which the kindergarten still stands today was purchased, and work on the building began.
The kindergarten operated in temporary premises at Ascot Vale West Primary School and All Saints Church Hall from 1947 until 1952. Progress Kindergarten opened at its present site at 11 Brown Avenue, Ascot Vale on 14 February 1953. Since then, Progress, as it is fondly known, has educated generations of Ascot Vale children.