The Jindi Woraback Children’s Centre at St Albans has been rated for its excellence by its governing body – and with good reason.
Jindi Woraback is a not-for-profit community-based children’s centre incorporating a kindergarten program funded by the state government.
“It means everything goes back into the centre, where the children can benefit,” assistant director Helen Bonett said.
It is the first childcare centre in Brimbank and just the third in Victoria to receive the ultimate stamp of approval from the Australian Children’s Education and Care Quality Authority.
“I think one of our best features is that we’re aware of vulnerable families who are grappling with difficult financial or personal situations,” Ms Bonett said.
“We also aim for the best outcome for children with special needs, such as those on the autism spectrum or with speech problems. We think it’s crucial to make them feel part of everyday practices and just as confident in their abilities.”
In the language of the land’s traditional Wurundjeri people, the name Jindi Woraback means to join and unite.
“While we don’t have any Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander children under our care right now, we think it’s important children understand our country’s roots,” Ms Bonett said.
The centre’s 42 staff care for 121 children a day – a total of 190 over each week. Its program combines the National Early Years Learning Framework and Te Whariki, a New Zealand curriculum based on five learning themes – well-being, belonging, contribution, exploration and communication.
