The name Kirinari is a Kaurna word meaning learning. Kirinari opened in February 1980 in a rented property with 47 children. Then a new location was required. Late in January 1981 a house at Trimmer Tce, Unley, Kirinari's present location, was purchased and with much willing work by parents, teachers and children, this house was made ready. Later two adjoining blocks were purchased from Unley Council.
Groups are small and there is interaction within a wide age range.
Children in the younger group have the freedom to play in a stimulating environment with some time set aside for whole group activities each day. Structure is gradually introduced while maintaining the principles of choice and individual learning styles. Academic work is non-competitive. There is an informal, homelike environment in which adults are referred to by first names, children can remove shoes and parents are always welcome in the classroom. There is a strong tradition of creative drama and art with excellent facilities for ceramics, painting and fabric crafts.