Pakenham, VIC Early Learning & Kindergarten

We celebrate and respect all aspects of diversity and create inclusive communities for all children and families. We are a breastfeeding-friendly early learning centre, which means we’re happy to give your infant breast  milk in line with our breastfeeding policy. Join families from Hallam, Doveton, Narre Warren, Hampton Park, Endeavour early learning pakenham Hills, and beyond as we create a supportive and stimulating environment where young minds can thrive and blossom. Our beautiful location next to Alma Treloar Reserve, provides us with the perfect environment to run a regular bush kinder program. Our Centre is run by a committee of management comprising of parents and staff.
Our families can also benefit from the Child Care Subsidy , making quality early education more accessible. We stand out from other childcare providers with our unique approach, blending the Montessori philosophy with innovative educational methods to encourage independence, creativity, and confidence in children. Our curriculum is carefully designed to develop essential cognitive, social, and emotional skills while preparing children for future academic success. The Child Care Subsidy is available to help families offset the cost of childcare.

Ultimately, clear and consistent communication between parents and childcare staff is essential to ensuring that your child receives the highest quality of care possible. Unfortunately, due to you waiting  4 + months to contact us to discuss your concern, it has been particularly challenging to move forward. As mentioned in our previous communications with you, we would love to invite you into the Centre for a meeting to discuss your concerns, and gain a better understanding of why you were unhappy? The care given to our little learners from our beautiful and qualified Educators is outstanding and as can be seen from all our other reviews, our families are happy with our Educators and care. We do wish your family all the best for the future, and hope your little one continues to thrive in a new Early Learning Centre, that is better suited to your families needs. It has been an exciting adventure opening our Centre First, Pakenham in January 2021, and welcoming  all the current and new children, families and educators into our amazing Reggio Emilia Inspired service.
Our activities enhance language skills and promote collaborative group play, laying a strong foundation for their future learning experiences. Kindergarten is a unique time for learning with peers and developing skills for later learning including confidence and curiosity, important skills for starting school. Our play-based program encourages active engagement in learning and supports a range of positive developmental outcomes including resilience, independence, critical thinking and creativity.
Join our waitlist today and become part of a community that values growth, curiosity, and lifelong learning. Recognising and celebrating cultural diversity is integral to our educational approach. We include multicultural activities and encourage children and families to share their traditions and languages. This enriches our community and helps children develop a global perspective from an early age. With over 21 years of experience in early childhood education, our Service Manager, Erin Christopher, leads a team of highly motivated, loving, and qualified educators. They are dedicated to fostering your child's curiosity, creativity, and interest in the world around them.

During this time, I’ve had the privilege of working across a wide range of roles—including Educator, Kindergarten Teacher, Educational Leader, Assistant Director, and now Centre Director. Each of these roles has shaped my professional journey and deepened my commitment to delivering high-quality care and education for all children. TheFree Kinder programis designed to ensure all children access the benefits of early learning and give them a strong foundation for a successful school experience. I’m passionate about giving kids the best start in life, and I find it incredibly rewarding to watch them grow and learn during such vital years.
I have sent both of my children to this centre, and they have been absolutely amazing with them. I have been so impressed with their programmes and learning techniques especially in the kindergarten room and 3-year-old room. I am completely confident that my child is ready for school with the thanks to all the staff and especially the kindergarten teacher. All of our educational programs are designed to be fun ways for children to learn, grow and develop.
We prioritise clear and consistent communication with families to foster a strong partnership in supporting each child’s development. We ensure families feel informed, involved, and confident in their child’s early learning journey. Our kindergarten programs are tailored to meet your child’s individual learning needs across numeracy, literacy, emotional and social development, resilience, and self-regulation. Our evidence-based Rhythm and Movement for Self-Regulation program is designed to develop fundamental skills that help support children’s self-regulation, memory, and concentration. It is an innovative approach to holistic learning, development and well-being in early childhood. The oral language supports literacy learning and a child’s oral language ability is the best predictor for later success in learning to read and write.

Isabela leads with energy and heart, creating a vibrant centre culture where families feel welcome and every child’s individuality is celebrated. Beyond their impressive qualifications, our educators truly care about your child. They will work with you to help your child settle in and reach their full potential. Our educators also research and uphold best practice and use a variety of techniques to support every child's learning. Our integrated kindergarten and sessional kindergarten programs are delivered by educators who have a Bachelor of Education qualification.