While there were several professional associations operating in the early childhood area at that time, preschool directors did not have a platform for participating in decision making about the administration and management of their centres.

An initial meeting for interested preschool directors was held at Dover Kindergarten in May 1996. A group of about 20 directors expressed interest and a steering committee was formed. JPPA provided a small amount of seed funding, and with a lot of work from the steering committee, the legal requirements for setting up the association were fulfilled, and the inaugural annual general meeting was held at The Orphanage in Term 3 1996.

The first elections resulted in the following positions: Marilyn Clark (President), Pauline Robinson (Vice President), Judi Wilson (Treasurer) and Sue McFarlane (Secretary). There was a committee of 16 elected from across the metro area.

At this time the Children’s Services Office was absorbed by the Department of Education. PDA was soon included as members of the Coalition of Principal Associations and by the end of the year had started to meet regularly with the Minister, the CEO and the Executive Director. 

Membership grew rapidly and had reached 75 by the end of the first year. The organisation continued to grow and advocate for Preschool Directors across South Australia.

In 2021 conversations were had with the department for Education and work began on setting up the first paid President Position. After a merit selection process, Kate Ryan was appointed as the first paid president in July 2022.

Past presidents

• Marilyn Clark (first tenure 1996 – 2001, second tenure 2012 - 2016)

• Suzie Cottle (2001 – 2003)

• Victoria Willcox (2003 - 2006)

• Jen Mathwin Raymond (2006 - 2007)

• Marian Nayda (2007 - 2011)

• Anne Millhouse (2017 – 2022)

A South Australian legacy - Leading early childhood education for 150 years and counting

South Australia is proud to have a central and enduring role in advancing early childhood education.

The following websites outline key historical achievements in the state’s early childhood education journey, including in depth timelines of achievements and milestones.