Learning through every part of the day

Play is how young children make sense of the world. Our play-based curriculum meets the physical, emotional, social and cognitive needs of each child, and encourages exploration, problem-solving and critical thinking.

Our annual learning program runs in four to five week cycles, linking children's interests with celebrations and commemorative days through the year.

• Programs planned from each child's strengths and interests
• Indoor and outdoor play every day
• Music, movement, art and sensory experiences
• Intentional teaching alongside child-led discovery

In the Kangaroos room (4 years to school age), a qualified early childhood teacher leads a preschool program that builds the confidence and skills children take with them to school.

• Independence and self-help skills, like managing belongings and lunchboxes
• Friendships, turn-taking and expressing feelings
• Early literacy and numeracy through stories, songs and games
• Listening, following instructions and group time
• Transition support for the move to school, in partnership with families

Morning tea, lunch and afternoon tea are prepared fresh on site every day by our cook, following our Nutrition, Food and Beverages policy and Australian dietary guidelines.

• A weekly menu displayed for families
• Fresh drinking water available at all times
• Cultural food preferences and dietary needs catered for
• Allergies managed with individual health plans
• Children involved in food preparation and cooking experiences
• Relaxed, social mealtimes with educators modelling healthy eating

Caring for the environment is part of everyday life at EEL. Children learn to look after living things, reduce waste and use resources wisely.

• Garden beds where children plant, grow and harvest
• Three-bin system: general waste, recycling and compost
• Compost and worm farm for food scraps
• Recycled and natural materials for art and loose parts play
• Water-saving habits at handwashing and outdoor play
• Native plants to support local wildlife

Children thrive when home and centre work closely together. We share your child's day through the OWNA app and welcome families into centre life.

• Daily updates, photos and learning stories in the OWNA app
• Family events and cultural celebrations
• Visiting programs, including Mini Missions sport with Coach Jack
• Community health checks, such as NSW Brighter Beginnings
• Family feedback shapes our programs and Quality Improvement Plan

Essential Early Learning believes in supporting the growth and development of each child as a unique individual. We provide a nurturing, safe and inclusive environment that fosters creativity, curiosity and a love for learning.

We believe early learning is essential. From a young age, children build the foundations for lifelong learning. This is more than childcare. It's giving your child the essentials they need for their future.

• Every child is capable, curious and unique
• Learning happens through play and relationships
• Families are children's first and most important teachers
• Every culture, language and family is welcomed