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3 day guarantee

Headstart Early Learning Centre Clarendon

Places available

Daily fees before CCS

Nursery $192.45
Toddler $184.85
Preschool $175.05
Calculate your out-of-pocket cost

Enrolment availability

The information below gives an indication of current availability at the centre.

  • Monday
  • Tuesday
  • Wednesday
  • Thursday
  • Friday

Childcare and preschool in Clarendon, NSW

Headstart Early Learning Clarendon offers long day care and a preschool program for children aged 6 weeks to 6 years, conveniently located for families in Clarendon, South Windsor, Windsor, Richmond, Cornwallis, Bligh Park and Hobartville in Sydney.

Spacious outdoor environments

Children can explore spacious outdoor environments where there is always something interesting to see, from passing trains to planes from the nearby RAAF base and animals in the adjacent paddock. Our outdoor space includes a large sandpit, climbing fort and a range of activities for active play.

Flexible indoor learning spaces

Indoors, children learn in purpose-built spaces filled with resources that encourage peer interaction, exploration and learning. Interactive whiteboards and natural materials give children different ways to investigate ideas and take part in play-based experiences.

Long-standing team and Individual Learning Plans

Many of our educators have been part of the centre for more than 10 to 15 years. These familiar relationships help children feel known, cared for and comfortable as they move through routines, play and learning each day. Individual Learning Plans are developed in partnership with families, reflecting each child’s strengths, interests and developmental goals.

Government-approved Preschool program

Our Government-approved Preschool program is delivered by a Bachelor-qualified Early Childhood Teacher and helps children prepare for school. Children build confidence through play, routines, friendships, early learning skills and growing independence.

Healthy meals cooked on-site

Children enjoy meals and snacks prepared by our in-house chef, with menus planned for variety, balance and children’s daily needs. Allergies and individual dietary requirements are catered for, helping every child feel included and comfortable at mealtimes.

Daily updates via our family app

Our family app gives families another way to follow their child’s day and stay connected with the centre. Updates may include photos, routines, play experiences, learning moments and important centre information shared by educators.

Secure your place today

Book a tour to experience the centre and confirm availability for your child.

Meet our Centre Manager

Lourdes

  • Diploma of Community Services
"Supporting children at this important stage of life, helping them develop confidence, emotional security, and a love of learning, is both humbling and deeply meaningful."

I began working in the early childhood education sector in 2005 and joined Headstart Clarendon in April 2024. I bring more than 20 years of experience across a range of roles, including Room Leader, Assistant Centre Manager, Educational Leader, and Centre Manager. From the beginning of my career, I recognised the importance of the early years in shaping children’s confidence, identity, and love of learning. Watching children grow, discover their voices, and build a sense of belonging has always been one of the greatest privileges of my career. Supporting children at this important stage of life, helping them develop confidence, emotional security, and a love of learning, is both humbling and deeply meaningful.

When speaking with families, I emphasise that learning at home is invaluable, as families are a child’s first and most important teachers, and that early learning centres build on this foundation. In a high-quality early learning environment, educators intentionally design play-based experiences that support language, social development, emotional regulation, problem-solving, and early literacy and numeracy, all aligned with the Early Years Learning Framework. Children also benefit from learning alongside peers, building friendships, developing empathy and communication skills, and gaining confidence and independence in a supportive setting.

My team is at the heart of everything we do. They are a passionate and committed group of educators who genuinely care about children, families, and each other. Together, we bring a diverse mix of experience, strengths, and perspectives, creating a culture of collaboration, reflection, and continuous learning where open communication and shared responsibility support high-quality outcomes for children.

Supporting families and building strong partnerships is central to my leadership approach. I aim to ensure families feel welcomed, respected, heard, and genuinely partnered with from their very first interaction with the centre. Through open, honest, and consistent communication, and by creating an inclusive environment where families feel comfortable sharing their insights, concerns, and goals for their child, we work together to build trust and support each child’s learning, wellbeing, and sense of belonging.

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Our innovative early learning programs

Sustainability

We are actively developing our sustainability program, teaching children the importance of turning off lights when not in use and recycling materials. We compost food scraps, care for our gardens, and share worm juice with families for their gardens, fostering a deeper connection with the environment.

Community engagement

Our community walks, nature collections and interactions with locals are highlights for children and educators alike. We also welcome local emergency services visits to help children understand their roles, fostering a sense of belonging for children in their community.

STEM

Educators introduce open-ended materials and invitations to explore, such as building, measuring and experimenting. Through shared conversations and investigation, children develop curiosity, problem-solving and critical thinking skills.

Music and movement

Our evidence-based Rhythm and Movement for Self-Regulation (RAMSR) 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.

Age-appropriate early learning

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0-2 years

Nursery

Nursery

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0-2 years

In our nursery environment, educators focus on building strong, secure and respectful relationships so babies feel safe, settled and supported as they explore the world around them.

Children in our nursery room are supported through:

  • Responsive care and nurturing relationships that support emotional security and attachment
  • Sensory exploration through textures, sounds, music and movement
  • Early communication through songs, stories, gestures and conversations
  • Tummy time and movement experiences that support physical development
  • Calm, predictable routines that help babies feel safe and confident
  • Age-appropriate play materials that encourage curiosity and discovery

Educators work closely with families to support each baby’s routines, comfort and developmental needs.

Headstart-toddler-1

2-3 years

Toddlers

Toddlers

Headstart-toddler-1
2-3 years

Our toddler program encourages curiosity, independence and early social skills as children explore the world with growing confidence.

Children in our toddler room are supported through:

  • Play-based learning that encourages curiosity and problem-solving
  • Storytelling, songs and conversations that support language development
  • Creative exploration through art, music, dramatic play and movement
  • Self-help skills and routines that build independence
  • Social learning that supports sharing, cooperation and empathy
  • Outdoor exploration that builds coordination, strength and confidence

Educators support toddlers to express their ideas, make choices and develop confidence in their abilities.

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3-5 years

Preschool

Preschool

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3-5 years

Our Preschool program prepares children for school through engaging, play-based learning experiences that build confidence, independence and a love of learning.

Children in our Preschool program are supported through:

  • School readiness learning that builds early literacy and numeracy skills
  • Problem-solving and critical thinking through play-based projects and exploration
  • Collaboration and teamwork through group learning experiences
  • Creative expression through art, music, storytelling and dramatic play
  • Outdoor learning that supports confidence, resilience and wellbeing
  • Independence, responsibility and decision-making skills

Our Government-approved Preschool program helps children develop the skills they need for a successful transition to school.

headstart-food

We’re all about healthy, nutritious eating

Thanks to the in-house chef at our Clarendon child care centre, your child can expect healthy, nutritious, and yummy meals. We offer a rotating seasonal menu, providing breakfast, morning tea, lunch, afternoon tea, and a late snack freshly made daily. We cater to all dietary requirements.

What a typical day looks like for your child

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Arrival at the centre

Your child will be welcomed by our team of educators, who will ensure the morning transition from home to centre goes as smoothly as possible. On arrival, share information about your child’s specific needs for the day.

  Next: Mealtimes
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Mealtimes

Our centre chefs prepare a nutritious menu for your child to sit down and eat. This is a great time for everyone to share stories from the day. Educators model healthy eating practices, social behaviours and support children’s growing independence with mealtime routines.

Previous: Arrival at the centre Next: Infant care
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Infant care

If you have an infant, we spend one-on-one time with them to establish a connection. Educators talk gently and respond to babies’ cues. We use songs, games, and conversations to strengthen relationships and build language skills.

Previous: Mealtimes Next: Play-based learning
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Play-based learning

Your child is naturally curious. They want to learn and explore, which is why we teach through play-based learning. It supports language, motor skills, memory, emotions and social relationships. Educators plan play-based learning experiences based on children’s interests and goals.

Previous: Infant care Next: Sleep, rest and relaxation
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Sleep, rest and relaxation

We match routines to your child’s individual needs. Opportunities for rest and relaxation help make them feel safe. Play-based learning experiences are provided for older children who no longer don’t sleep in centre.

Previous: Play-based learning Next: Heading home
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Heading home

As your child prepares to head home, this is your opportunity to speak with our friendly educators about your child’s day and everything they learnt. We look forward to welcoming you back tomorrow.

Previous: Sleep, rest and relaxation  

Fees

The Child Care Subsidy can reduce your daily out-of-pocket fee by up to 95% depending on your family’s entitlements.

Nursery

0 – 2 years

$192.45/day

Toddler

2 – 4 years

$184.85/day

Preschool

4 – 5 years

$175.05/day

Step 1: Family Information & Financial State

Child Care Subsidy Estimator

Discover how much child care subsidy you may be entitled to by entering the fields below.

**1-4 days = 11.25 hour sessions, 5 days = 100 hours

Changes to CCS – The 3-Day Guarantee (Starting 5th January 2026)

The Australian Government is replacing the Child Care Subsidy (CCS) Activity Test from 5th January 2026, to provide a min. 72 hours per fortnight or 3 days per week of subsidised early childhood education and care (ECEC) for eligible families.

2026 3-Day Guarantee

From 5th January 2026, based on the information you have entered, here's an estimate of your CCS entitlements and your out-of-pocket costs.

Total Fees

$0.00

Estimated CCS Fee Subsidy

$0.00

Preschool/Preschool Subsidy

$0.00

Out of Pocket Cost (what you pay)

$0.00

Matrix Out of Pocket Cost

Is your CCS working for you? Check the out-of-pocket cost matrix per child against session lengths and weekly days below. Please note: The table in the matrix only shows out-of-pocket costs after CCS (Child Care Subsidy).

Child 1 1 Day 2 Days 3 Days 4 Days 5 Days

*Kindergarten/preschool subsidy applied: $0.00

4.6(28 reviews)

Kimberley Allen

We couldn’t be happier with our experience at Headstart Early Learning Centre Clarendon. All of our children have attended the centre for a period over the years, and it’s been wonderful to see the consistent care, support and dedication the…. See more We couldn’t be happier with our experience at Headstart Early Learning Centre Clarendon. All of our children have attended the centre for a period over the years, and it’s been wonderful to see the consistent care, support and dedication the educators provide to every child. From the moment they started, the educators have made them feel safe, supported and genuinely cared for. Watching them settle in so quickly, build friendships and enjoy going to preschool each day has been wonderful. Although we’ve only been at the centre for a month this time around, we’ve already noticed such a positive difference. Our child is becoming more confident and independent, and he’s already developing many of the skills he’ll need for his transition to school next year. It’s been incredible to see how much he’s grown in such a short time. The educators are kind, approachable and take the time to get to know each child as an individual. Communication with families has been excellent, and it’s clear the team is passionate about creating a nurturing environment where children feel valued, supported and encouraged to learn. As parents, there’s nothing more reassuring than dropping your child off knowing they’re happy, engaged and genuinely cared for. We are so grateful for everything the team has done for our children, and we wouldn’t hesitate to recommend Headstart Early Learning Centre Clarendon to anyone looking for a caring, supportive and high-quality early learning centre.

Melissa Casey

My son attended this centre for only seven months, and unfortunately, our experience went downhill very quickly. Things seemed to get worse with each passing month. One of the biggest concerns was the loss of the wonderful educators who genuinely…. See more My son attended this centre for only seven months, and unfortunately, our experience went downhill very quickly. Things seemed to get worse with each passing month. One of the biggest concerns was the loss of the wonderful educators who genuinely went above and beyond for the children. They were replaced with staff who couldn’t even pronounce my son’s name correctly, which was disappointing and made us feel like the personal care, love and attention had been lost. Over time, my son regularly came home filthy covered in dirt, with dried food caked on his face and clothes. When they bothered to change his clothes, his dirty clothes were often mixed in with his clean bedding, which showed a lack of basic care and attention to hygiene. We then received an email advising that the toddler and baby rooms would be combined to help with staff to child ratios. Even some of the educators expressed concerns that this change would hold the toddlers back in their development. I raised my concerns with the Centre Director Lourdes, but received only a generic response. Just a week later, on my son’s first day back after that email, he once again came home extremely dirty. I raised my concerns again, this time including the Area Manager, but unfortunately received another generic response with no meaningful action. After speaking with several other parents, I realised our concerns were not isolated. Many had experienced similar issues, and some had even contacted the Department of Education. At that point, we decided this environment was no longer the right place for our son. We withdrew him and enrolled him in another centre, where the difference in care, communication, and overall quality has been incredible. Based on our experience, I would not recommend this centre to any parent who cares about their child’s wellbeing and development. If I could give negative stars, I would

Belinda

Both of my boys attended Headstart Clarendon from the time they were babies until they moved on to Kindergarten, and we couldn’t have asked for a better start to their education journey. They absolutely loved going every single day. The quality of…. See more Both of my boys attended Headstart Clarendon from the time they were babies until they moved on to Kindergarten, and we couldn’t have asked for a better start to their education journey. They absolutely loved going every single day. The quality of education they received was outstanding. They developed so many valuable, lifelong skills that have set them up beautifully for school and beyond. As a school teacher myself, I was incredibly impressed — from the moment I walked into the centre, I fell in love with the layout, the learning environment, and the thoughtfully designed programs in place. The staff are warm, nurturing, and genuinely caring. I always felt that my children were valued and loved as if they were their own. That level of trust and reassurance as a parent is priceless. I truly can’t recommend Headstart Clarendon highly enough. If you are looking for quality early childhood education and care in the Hawkesbury, this is the place to be.

laura hunt

We cannot speak highly enough of Headstart Clarendon Daycare. Our son has been here since he was a baby and is now graduating to kindy, and the growth we’ve seen in him has been incredible. The educators—both male and female—are absolutely…. See more We cannot speak highly enough of Headstart Clarendon Daycare. Our son has been here since he was a baby and is now graduating to kindy, and the growth we’ve seen in him has been incredible. The educators—both male and female—are absolutely wonderful, as are the chef and the director. Every single staff member genuinely cares, and it shows in everything they do. The team has supported our son’s development on every level, especially emotionally, and they have gone above and beyond to support our family. He truly loves his educators and feels safe, happy, and excited to go each day, which means the world to us as parents. Everything is thoughtfully provided, from delicious and nutritious meals and snacks to nappies and engaging, well-planned educational activities. The daily updates and photos through the app are fantastic, and the staff are always approachable and open to discussion. The centre is always clean, and updated. And is set out for the children to learn and play. We are so grateful for the love, care, and dedication shown to our son over the years and highly recommend Headstart Clarendon Daycare to any family looking for a nurturing, supportive, and welcoming environment.

Cassandra Rudzinski

Both my children attended Headstart. We've been so happy and grateful for the care and support they've both received. Both loved attending and adored their teachers.

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Frequently asked questions

A centre tour is a convenient way to experience the childcare centre of your choice and meet with our qualified educators at a time that is suitable for your family’s schedule. Click here to book a tour online.

On the day of the tour, you can observe practices and interactions within the centre environment. You’ll be able to see all the rooms and playgrounds, ask the team members any questions you have in mind, and get all the information you need to make the best decision for your child.

Enrolling is simple, and our Family Support Team will guide you through each step.

First, find your local centre and book a tour so you can meet the team and explore the learning environment. If the centre is the right fit and a place is available, you’ll receive an enrolment offer for your child. If a place is not currently available in your child’s age group, we can add your child to the waitlist and keep you updated.

To finalise your enrolment, you’ll complete an online enrolment form through a secure link sent by our Family Support Team. You’ll also need to provide key details and documents, including your child’s birth certificate, Medicare details, immunisation history statement and, if eligible, your Child Care Subsidy details.

Before your child’s first day, you may be invited to attend a Stay and Play session. This gives your child time to explore the centre, meet their educators, and start feeling comfortable in their new environment. Once your paperwork is complete, your child is ready to start their early learning journey with us.

Read our step-by-step guide on how to enrol here.

Starting child care is a big milestone, and a little preparation can help your child feel more comfortable and confident.

Before your child’s first day, you can talk positively about their new centre, explain what their day might look like, and practise small routines such as packing their bag, saying goodbye, washing hands and sitting down for meals. You may also like to visit the centre with your child, meet their educators and ask our team about what to bring on the first day.

When your child starts, our educators will take the time to get to know your child’s routine, interests, comfort items and individual needs. Settling in looks different for every child, so we work closely with families to help children feel safe, supported and ready to learn.

Learn more about our Settling-in Program.

Most of our child care and early education centres offer nappies and wipes, sunscreen and hats, as well as nutritious meals prepared by our in-house cook. Some centres also provide sheets and formula, so you may not need to remember to pack them.

For nursery children, be sure to bring: nappy rash cream, dummies, bottles and teats, comfort toys or blankets, three spare outfits, spare socks and a plastic bag for wet clothes.

For toddlers and preschool or kindergarten-aged children, it’s best to bring: spare underwear, water bottle or sippy cup, sun hat, closed-toe shoes, two spare outfits, spare socks and a plastic bag for wet clothes.

Plus, anything else your individual child may need, such as breast milk, a sleeping bag, a comforter or medication.

It’s best to speak to your centre of choice for a full list of everything included.

Headstart uses Xplor Home as our family communication app. It is the best and easiest way to keep track of your child’s day.

After you enrol your child with the centre, you can utilise Xplor Home to book child care days, manage your account, receive the photographs that capture your child’s learning, learn about your child’s progress, as well as keep up-to-date with upcoming centre events and important information.

If your child shows signs of an infectious illness when they arrive at the centre or becomes sick during the day, you may be notified that you need to make alternative arrangements or pick up your child from the centre and keep them home until they are no longer infectious. While we understand that this can be inconvenient, Headstart is committed to maintaining a healthy environment and reducing the risk of infection for all children.

Under the Child Care Subsidy (CCS), families are allowed 42 absence days per child, per financial year. These can be taken for any reason, including public holidays and when children are sick, without requiring families to provide documentation.

Contact us

We look forward to welcoming your family.