By Carole Levy
One of the stars at Caroline Springs Child Care and Kindergarten is a bunny named Hop, a bundle of fur that gives and receives love while helping teach children about responsibility and care.
He’s a bit like the educators at the Centre.
They’re highly qualified, with a combined 200 years of experience. They’re passionate about the care and learning experiences they bring to children aged from six weeks to six years.
Centre Director Chris Smith explains what the Centre has to offer.
“We are one of six Centres across Melbourne that operate under the umbrella of Little Flyers Learning Centres, which began in Eltham College with the aim of combining early education and dedicated care at the highest level,” Chris says.
“We have seven programmes run by educators who implement an approved curriculum for the learning journey of each individual child.
“One of our programmes is a government-funded kindergarten for four year olds. We have a strong focus on each child’s goals and offer an indoor and outdoor programme.”
Each year, every child is given a learning portfolio and families are kept informed every step of the way.
“Our portfolios are keepsakes celebrating the time a child has spent at the Centre, recording the learning during their years through images, pieces of their work and documentation,” Chris says.
“We also have an app for families, named My Family Lounge, through which families are able to view their child’s learning journey with daily journals.
“And we have a Facebook page that enables families to enjoy special moments at the Centre, as well as weekly and monthly electronic newsletters highlighting dates to remember.”
Caroline Springs Child Care and Kindergarten has each member of its staff qualified in first aid (with annual re-certification) and training in anaphylaxis, asthma and CPR. The team also receives annual child protection training.
“We aim to make every child feel special and cared for in all ways,” Chris continues. “On their birthday, our chef, Beti, bakes a cake, while every day the children are under the attention of educators who show respect and care.
“We encourage families to come and meet our team and have a look around. Right now, we have vacancies in our under-two years old programme. And, with the first eight weeks of enrolment in any programme, the ninth week is fee-free.”
Caroline Springs Child Care and Kindergarten, 1 The Crossing, Caroline Springs. Inquiries: 9363 7622 or
littleflyers.com.au
