Hip hip hooray to the class of ‘25!
November 26, 2025
There were smiles all round as families celebrated their children’s graduation from this year’s HIPPY program in Launceston.
HIPPY (Home Interaction Program for Parents and Youngsters) is a free, home-based school readiness program that Anglicare delivers in and around Launceston, including the Tamar Valley.
It builds a love of learning that can last a lifetime.
Pre-school aged children enrolled in HIPPY, many from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, participate in fun-filled learning activities that are directed by their parent/caregiver, who is supported by a team of paid tutors who have previously gone through the program.
HIPPY also provides opportunities for families to come together for meet-ups and excursions in their local communities. This opens up a new world for families who may have recently moved to the area or who have English as their second language.
Thirty-three children graduated from the program with flying colours this year, eager to take the next step in their learning journey.
The HIPPY team was delighted to welcome along Jess Teesdale MP – a teacher before becoming the federal member for Bass earlier this year – so that she could see firsthand the benefits of the program to local families.
“Graduation is the highlight of our year but there have been lots of milestones and successes that we’ve celebrated along the way,” said project coordinator Aparna Banerjee, herself a former HIPPY parent and tutor.
“Everyone is welcome at HIPPY,” says Aparna. “It’s wonderful to see grandparents involved and younger siblings impatiently waiting their turn. When families embrace HIPPY they’re giving children a head start to their education and helping them to build a bright future. We’re looking forward to welcoming more families into the program in the New Year.”
More information
HIPPY has been delivered by Anglicare in Launceston and surrounds since 2009.
For information on joining the HIPPY family please call Anglicare on 1800 243 232 and ask to speak with Aparna. You can also email ConnectSupport@anglicare-tas.org.au
Anglicare offers a range of free programs for families and young children across the state.
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- Celebrating the HIPPY graduates’ achievements were (from left) guest Jess Teesdale MP, program coordinator Aparna Banerjee and tutors/parents Sharon, Losharn, Kate and Lalita.
