--- title: "Childcare Berwick" url: https://www.headstartelc.com.au/our-centres/childcare-berwick description: "Get the best start to early learning with our child care and kindergarten programs at Headstart Berwick. Enquire today to secure a place." type: page date: 2024-10-01 modified: 2026-07-23 --- # Childcare Berwick ## Headstart Early Learning Centre Berwick Places available [44 Parkhill Drive Berwick VIC 3806](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=44+Parkhill+Drive+Berwick+VIC+3806) [1800 517 034](tel:1800%20517%20034) [berwick@headstartelc.com.au](mailto:berwick@headstartelc.com.au) Monday - Friday 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM Daily fees before CCS Nursery $182.05 Toddler $182.05 Kindergarten $182.05 [Calculate your out-of-pocket cost](.g8-centre-fees) ![Exceeding](https://api.g8education.edu.au/uploads/badge_rated_exceeding_national_quality_standard_9f9376032d.png) ![Victoria Kindergarten](https://api.g8education.edu.au/uploads/badge_kindergarten_vic_8fc5a07338.png) [![Google Logo](https://www.headstartelc.com.au/wp-content/themes/g8/public/images/g8-google-review.svg) 4.6 /5 68 reviews](.g8-google-reviews) ## Enrolment availability The information below gives an indication of current availability at the centre. - Monday - Tuesday - Wednesday - Thursday - Friday Green – Places available now Orange – Limited availability   Availability can change quickly. For the most up-to-date information and advice, please contact our Family Support Team. [Book a tour](https://www.headstartelc.com.au/book-a-tour?centre=headstart-early-learning-centre-berwick) [Enquire now](https://www.headstartelc.com.au/enquire-now/?centre=headstart-early-learning-centre-berwick) ## Childcare and kindergarten in Berwick, VIC Headstart Berwick offers long day care and a kindergarten program for children aged 6 weeks to 6 years, conveniently located for families in Berwick, Beaconsfield, Harkaway, Guys Hill, Fountain Gate, Narre Warren and Muddy Creek in Melbourne. Our centre is proudly rated **Exceeding the National Quality Standard.** #### Outdoor spaces surrounded by nature Children can explore outdoor spaces surrounded by nature and lush trees that provide natural shade. The yard includes a bike track, vegetable garden, balance beams, cubby houses and plenty of space for active outdoor play. #### Indoor learning with natural resources Indoors, children learn with a variety of natural resources suited to different learning styles. The kindergarten classrooms also include interactive whiteboards, giving children different ways to explore ideas and take part in group learning. #### Long-standing educator team Many of our early childhood educators have been with the centre for more than 10 years. These familiar relationships help children feel settled, known and comfortable as they move through routines, play and learning. Individual Learning Plans are developed in partnership with families, reflecting each child’s strengths, interests and developmental goals. #### Government-approved Kindergarten program Our Government-approved Kindergarten program is delivered by a Bachelor-qualified Early Childhood Teacher and helps children prepare for school. Children build confidence through play-based learning, routines, friendships and growing independence. #### Incursions and excursions included Children regularly enjoy incursions, excursions and visits from community guests, bringing new people and experiences into the program. As part of the daily fee, children also take part in extracurricular activities such as Hey Dee Ho. #### Healthy meals and app updates Meals and snacks are provided throughout the day, with menus planned for variety, balance and children’s daily needs. Allergies and individual dietary requirements are catered for. Families can follow along through our family app, with photos and updates from the centre. ## Secure your place today Book a tour to experience the centre and confirm availability for your child. [Book a tour](https://www.headstartelc.com.au/book-a-tour?centre=headstart-early-learning-centre-berwick) [Enquire now](https://www.headstartelc.com.au/enquire-now/?centre=headstart-early-learning-centre-berwick) ## Meet our Centre Manager Heather ### - Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care "I love working with my wonderful team here in Berwick, watching them build relationships with each child, and seeing the educational care they provide." I have worked in the early childhood education sector for over 10 years. The majority of my work as an educator involved running a nursery and looking after babies. I absolutely love all-ages groups and understand that it’s not easy for new parents to return to work and have their babies in childcare. This is where my passion for collaborative relationships with families became very important to me. This encouraged me to shift my career goals more towards management and to provide the highest-quality education and care for all children. I love working with my wonderful team here in Berwick, watching them build relationships with each child, and seeing the educational care they provide. Please feel free to get in touch with our Family Support Team and arrange a tour of our service at any time. We look forward to welcoming you to Headstart Berwick early education centre. Read moreless ## Our innovative early learning programs #### Sustainability Children develop respect for the environment through gardening, recycling and nature-based learning. Educators also introduce the interconnected aspects of sustainability, including environmental, social and economic, through concepts like fairness, sharing and community. #### Social and emotional learning Children develop a strong sense of identity as they feel safe, secure and supported, building confidence, resilience and a positive sense of self. Through group activities, conversations and play, children learn to interact with others with care, empathy and respect, building positive relationships and friendships. #### Language and early literacy Children develop early literacy through storytelling, books, songs and meaningful conversations. Educators support children to explore language in many forms, including speaking, listening, viewing, drawing and writing, while building confidence communicating with others. #### 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 ![headstart-nursery-3](https://www.headstartelc.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/headstart-nursery-3.jpg) ### 0-2 years Nursery ### Nursery ![headstart-nursery-3](https://www.headstartelc.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/headstart-nursery-3.jpg) 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. [Our nursery rooms](https://www.headstartelc.com.au/childcare-and-early-education/nursery) ![Headstart-toddler-1](https://www.headstartelc.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/headstart-toddler-1.jpg) ### 2-3 years Toddlers ### Toddlers ![Headstart-toddler-1](https://www.headstartelc.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/headstart-toddler-1.jpg) 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. [Our toddler rooms](https://www.headstartelc.com.au/childcare-and-early-education/toddlers) ![kindergarten-preschool-ready-4.avif](https://www.headstartelc.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/kindergarten-preschool-ready-4.avif) ### 3-5 years Kindergarten ### Kindergarten ![kindergarten-preschool-ready-4.avif](https://www.headstartelc.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/kindergarten-preschool-ready-4.avif) 3-5 years Our Kindergarten program prepares children for school through engaging, play-based learning experiences that build confidence, independence and a love of learning. Children in our Kindergarten 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 Kindergarten program helps children develop the skills they need for a successful transition to school. [Free Kinder in Victoria](https://www.headstartelc.com.au/family-information/funded-kindergarten-preschool/victoria) ![headstart-food](https://www.headstartelc.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/headstart-food.jpg) ## We’re all about healthy, nutritious eating Thanks to the in-house chef at our Berwick 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 ![typical-day-arrival-648x300-1.jpg](https://www.headstartelc.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/typical-day-arrival-648x300-1.jpg) ### 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 ![typical-day-mealtime-2-648x300-1.jpg](https://www.headstartelc.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/typical-day-mealtime-2-648x300-1.jpg) ### 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 ![typical-day-infant-care-648x300-1.jpg](https://www.headstartelc.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/typical-day-infant-care-648x300-1.jpg) ### 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 ![typical-day-play-based-learning-648x300-1.jpg](https://www.headstartelc.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/typical-day-play-based-learning-648x300-1.jpg) ### 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 ![sleep-rest-slider.jpg](https://www.headstartelc.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/sleep-rest-slider.jpg) ### 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 ![typical-day-slider-heading-home-648x300-1.jpg](https://www.headstartelc.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/typical-day-slider-heading-home-648x300-1.jpg) ### 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 $182.05/day Toddler 2 - 4 years $182.05/day Kindergarten 4 - 5 years $182.05/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. #### 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 Kindergarten/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** *This estimator provides an estimate only and is based on the following assumptions: - Accuracy and currency of family income information entered. - Family CCS entitlements include 100 hours of subsidised care per fortnight. Please note your family may be entitled to less than 100 hours of subsidised care per fortnight – if you are unsure we recommend you use the comprehensive CCS estimator in the link below. - Where 1-4 days of care is selected, full day sessions apply (being full operational hours of the centre, which can vary between centres). - Where 5 days of care is selected, 10-hour per day sessions apply (ie, 50 hours p/w to optimise 100 hours of CCS subsidised care across the fortnight). - Where a family’s CCS entitlements include less than 100 hours of subsidised care per fortnight, please use the comprehensive CCS calculator as a guide. - NSW Preschool Fee Relief is effective from 1st January 2026.   Kindergarten/preschool subsidy is subject to State Government specific requirements including child age eligibility criteria and the delivery of the funded program by an Early Childhood Teacher on the day the subsidy is claimed by the family. Calculations herein are based on the assumption all eligibility criteria is met. Please contact your centre for detailed information. Read more Book a tour ### Send your results by email Enter your email address and we’ll send you a copy of your calculation results. ## What our families say 4.6(68 reviews) Source: Google Business Profile. Reviews are correct at the time of accessing this webpage. ### Shelby Rose We’ve had a really positive experience with this childcare. Our little one absolutely loves the food and always comes home happy and excited to tell us about their day. The staff are warm, caring and genuinely seem to know the kids well. It’s.... **See more** We’ve had a really positive experience with this childcare. Our little one absolutely loves the food and always comes home happy and excited to tell us about their day. The staff are warm, caring and genuinely seem to know the kids well. It’s reassuring to know our child is in such a welcoming environment. We’re very happy with the care they provide and would definitely recommend them to other families. ### Adam Kara Both of my children have attended this centre since they were 7 months old. My oldest is now 4, and both attend full time. The staff are absolutely amazing — caring, professional, and genuinely invested in the children. The management team is also.... **See more** Both of my children have attended this centre since they were 7 months old. My oldest is now 4, and both attend full time. The staff are absolutely amazing — caring, professional, and genuinely invested in the children. The management team is also incredibly helpful and knowledgeable, always approachable and supportive. I always feel confident knowing my kids are safe, well looked after, and having so much fun while learning and growing. I couldn’t recommend this centre more highly. ### AGARGAMER What a beautiful centre to send your children. My daughter has been attending for just over a year and I highly recommend this centre. The educators go above and beyond to care for my daughter and the management team are so supportive. My child can.... **See more** What a beautiful centre to send your children. My daughter has been attending for just over a year and I highly recommend this centre. The educators go above and beyond to care for my daughter and the management team are so supportive. My child can be a bit of a struggle at drop off and the educators show amazing care to make her feel safe. Also the meals are beautiful and my daughter loves coming home telling me what she had for lunch, a big thumbs up to the centre cook for doing such an amazing job keeping the little one’s tummy’s full ### Tina Wang The whole staff here is super friendly, and the teachers are truly dedicated. They helped my 2-year-old son settle in perfectly—now he’s so happy here! A huge shoutout to Teacher Sujewaa! My son absolutely adores her. She genuinely pays attention to.... **See more** The whole staff here is super friendly, and the teachers are truly dedicated. They helped my 2-year-old son settle in perfectly—now he’s so happy here! A huge shoutout to Teacher Sujewaa! My son absolutely adores her. She genuinely pays attention to every child, and even after a long day, she still greets us with the biggest smile and shares all the little highlights of his day. You can really tell she loves what she does! Thank you for your kindness and authentic care we feel so lucky to have found her at this childcare! ### Zee My son went there for only a week thankfully as I had him unenrolled. If you wish screen time for your kids while at daycare then go for it. There's a TV in the 3 year old room and there were cartoons on when I went for orientation. I requested no.... **See more** My son went there for only a week thankfully as I had him unenrolled. If you wish screen time for your kids while at daycare then go for it. There's a TV in the 3 year old room and there were cartoons on when I went for orientation. I requested no screens for my son who is speech delayed. They turned it off after a while. However a child kept crying the WHOLE time of the orientation and kept pointing to the tv to watch the cartoons. Another day I went to pick up my son he was sitting by the door by himself while all the kids were watching an ipad with an educator. I felt so sad for him! My son was also potty trained but they put diaper on him after he had an accident. I enrolled him in another centre where hes going to the potty, not watching any screens and never sits by the door waiting for mamma. He is thriving at the other centre and loves it. ### Source: Google Business Profile G8 Education does not control or endorse the content of individual reviews. We encourage families to contact the centre directly for the most up-to-date information. ## Explore nearby G8 Education centres Looking for other great childcare, kindergarten or preschool options? Discover more G8 Education centres near you! - [Creative Garden Early Learning Berwick 3.20km](https://www.creativegarden.com.au/our-centres/childcare-berwick) - [Amberly Park World of Learning 3.66km](https://www.worldoflearning.com.au/our-centres/childcare-narre-warren) - [Community Kids Berwick Early Education Centre 3.68km](https://www.communitykids.com.au/our-centres/childcare-berwick) ## 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.](https://www.headstartelc.com.au/book-a-tour) 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.](https://www.headstartelc.com.au/family-information/how-to-enrol) ## 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.](https://www.headstartelc.com.au/family-information/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](https://www.headstartelc.com.au/family-information/family-communication). 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. [Book a tour](https://www.headstartelc.com.au/book-a-tour?centre=headstart-early-learning-centre-berwick) [Enquire now](https://www.headstartelc.com.au/enquire-now/?centre=headstart-early-learning-centre-berwick)