--- title: "Childcare Carnegie" url: https://www.headstartelc.com.au/our-centres/childcare-carnegie description: "Get the best start to early learning with our child care and kindergarten programs at Headstart Carnegie. Enquire today to secure a place." type: page date: 2024-10-01 modified: 2026-07-23 --- # Childcare Carnegie ## Headstart Early Learning Centre Carnegie Places available [1 Toolambool Rd Carnegie VIC 3163](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=1+Toolambool+Rd+Carnegie+VIC+3163) [1800 517 034](tel:1800%20517%20034) [carnegie@headstartelc.com.au](mailto:carnegie@headstartelc.com.au) Monday - Friday 6:30 AM – 6:30 PM Daily fees before CCS Nursery $188.70 Toddler $188.70 Kindergarten $188.70 [Calculate your out-of-pocket cost](.g8-centre-fees) [4.5 /5 61 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-carnegie) [Enquire now](https://www.headstartelc.com.au/enquire-now/?centre=headstart-early-learning-centre-carnegie) ## Childcare and kindergarten in Carnegie, VIC Headstart Carnegie offers long day care and a kindergarten program for children aged 6 weeks to 6 years, conveniently located for families in Carnegie, Glen Eira, Chadstone, Oakleigh, Bentleigh and Caulfield in Melbourne. #### Purpose-built learning spaces Children can explore spacious natural outdoor environments with a restful outdoor area, climbing frame, slides and a bike track. Indoors, purpose-built spaces are equipped with resources for play, exploration, group experiences and skill building. #### Long-standing team with 3 Early Childhood Teachers Our long-standing educators bring consistency and care to the centre, helping children feel settled and known. Our team includes three qualified Early Childhood Teachers who help deliver an engaging curriculum across the centre. Their knowledge of early childhood learning helps children build skills through play, routines and intentional teaching. #### Individual Learning Plans and daily portfolios Individual Learning Plans are developed in partnership with families, reflecting each child’s strengths, interests and developmental goals. Children’s learning and development are also documented in individual portfolios, which children and families can access each day. #### Government-approved Kindergarten program Our Government-approved Kindergarten program helps children prepare for school through play-based learning, routines, friendships and growing independence. Children build early literacy, numeracy, social skills and confidence in the years before school. #### 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. [Book a tour](/book-a-tour?centre=headstart-early-learning-centre-carnegie) [Enquire now](/enquire-now/?centre=headstart-early-learning-centre-carnegie) ## Meet our Centre Manager Nirali ### - * Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care "I am passionate about supporting each child’s individual learning journey by recognising their strengths, celebrating their achievements, and gently guiding them through new challenges. " I have been working in early childhood education since 2007 and joined Headstart Early Learning Centre Carnegie in 2026. My journey in early childhood education has been incredibly rewarding. It has been a privilege to watch children grow from young babies into confident, curious learners ready to start school. I was inspired to pursue this career because I wanted to make a positive difference during children’s most important developmental years. I believe early learning environments become a second home for children, where they feel safe, cared for, and supported as they learn, explore, and grow. Throughout my career, I have learned that every child is unique and develops at their own pace. Each child has different strengths, interests, and ways of learning, so I focus on creating an environment where they feel safe, valued, and confident to express themselves. I am passionate about supporting each child’s individual learning journey by recognising their strengths, celebrating their achievements, and gently guiding them through new challenges. My goal is to help children build confidence, independence, resilience, and a lifelong love of learning. When speaking with families, I explain that children learn valuable skills at home every day. At our service, we build on that learning through a structured, play-based program led by qualified educators, with social interactions and intentional teaching that support each child’s development, confidence, and readiness for future learning. Our team is made up of passionate, caring, and dedicated educators who work together to provide a safe, nurturing, and engaging environment for every child. Building strong relationships with families is essential to supporting each child’s learning and wellbeing. I prioritise open and honest communication, listen to each family’s needs and values, and work in partnership with them to support their child’s growth. 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. #### 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. #### 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 ### 0-2 years Nursery ### Nursery 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](/childcare-and-early-education/nursery) ### 2-3 years Toddlers ### Toddlers 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](/childcare-and-early-education/toddlers) ### 3-5 years Kindergarten ### Kindergarten 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) ## We’re all about healthy, nutritious eating Thanks to the in-house chef at our Carnegie 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. Our menus meet the Victorian menu planning guidelines, and as a centre, we collaborate closely with our local health promotion team to support children’s nutrition and wellbeing. We also cater to all dietary requirements. ## What a typical day looks like for your child ### 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 ### 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 ### 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 ### 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 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 ### 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 $188.70/day Toddler 2 - 4 years $188.70/day Kindergarten 4 - 5 years $188.70/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 4.5(61 reviews) Source: Google Business Profile. Reviews are correct at the time of accessing this webpage. ### Gnil Vouketalos My child has been going to Headstart for almost two years. we’ve had a wonderful experience since the beginning. The educators are all very warm and dedicated. Pallavi, Bindu, Xinyi, Kajal, Shiny, Arvinder… their passion for the care of children is.... **See more** My child has been going to Headstart for almost two years. we’ve had a wonderful experience since the beginning. The educators are all very warm and dedicated. Pallavi, Bindu, Xinyi, Kajal, Shiny, Arvinder… their passion for the care of children is evident every day. My child has grown in so many ways- physically, socially, and emotionally, and it’s thanks to the nurturing environment here and the strong, positive connections the educators have built with the children. In addition we love the nutritious food, the location of the centre in a quiet area, and the learning programs that build on artistic, language, cultural, and social skills. ### Random231 The condition of the outdoor environment at this centre is unacceptable and raises serious safety concerns. For nearly two months, the yards have been overrun with potentially poisonous mushrooms, making them unsafe for children to use. As a result,.... **See more** The condition of the outdoor environment at this centre is unacceptable and raises serious safety concerns. For nearly two months, the yards have been overrun with potentially poisonous mushrooms, making them unsafe for children to use. As a result, children are being denied access to outdoor play — a basic and essential part of early childhood development. After speaking with staff, it is alarming to learn that there have been multiple departmental visits in recent months, yet no meaningful action appears to have been taken. This points to a serious failure in both centre management and regulatory oversight to address obvious and ongoing safety risks. To make matters worse, one of the outdoor yards has reportedly been in a damaged and unusable condition for over a year. Leaving a core play area out of service for such an extended period demonstrates a clear lack of accountability and commitment to maintaining even minimum standards. Despite these ongoing issues, fees continue to increase every six months. Families are being asked to pay more while basic safety, maintenance, and quality expectations are not being met. This is deeply disappointing and frankly unacceptable. Children’s safety and wellbeing must come before everything else. Immediate action is required to rectify these hazards, restore safe outdoor spaces, and ensure the centre meets the standards families have every right to expect. ### Gaurav We’ve had a wonderful experience with Headstart Carnegie. The educators are caring, professional, and genuinely invested in the children’s development. The centre is well organised, clean, and provides a nurturing environment. Communication with.... **See more** We’ve had a wonderful experience with Headstart Carnegie. The educators are caring, professional, and genuinely invested in the children’s development. The centre is well organised, clean, and provides a nurturing environment. Communication with families is excellent, and it’s reassuring to know our child is happy and well looked after every day. Highly recommended. ### AnishaAnisha Bhurtel Headstart Carnegie has been an amazing experience for our family. The educators are caring, patient, and genuinely invested in the children’s wellbeing and development. They create a warm, safe, and nurturing environment where children feel.... **See more** Headstart Carnegie has been an amazing experience for our family. The educators are caring, patient, and genuinely invested in the children’s wellbeing and development. They create a warm, safe, and nurturing environment where children feel comfortable, supported, and happy. Thank you so much everyone I recommend this child care to everyone. ### Phill De I would highly suggest to stay away from this place. On one occasion, my child came home with visible injuries and bruises, and when I raised it with the educators (identified to me as Bindu and Pallavi) I was told they were unsure how the injury.... **See more** I would highly suggest to stay away from this place. On one occasion, my child came home with visible injuries and bruises, and when I raised it with the educators (identified to me as Bindu and Pallavi) I was told they were unsure how the injury have occurred and need to followup. This raises serious concerns about supervision and safety. No incident report was provided at pick up leaving us without any information about what happened. This lack of communication is very worrying and doesn't align with expected duty of care. Parents should think very carefully with trusting this centre with their children as their is no accountability. ### 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! - [Headstart Early Learning Centre Hughesdale 2.65km](https://www.headstartelc.com.au/our-centres/childcare-hughesdale) - [Kindy Patch Clarinda 6.47km](https://www.kindypatch.com.au/our-centres/childcare-clarinda) - [Greenwood Notting Hill 7.18km](https://www.greenwood.com.au/our-centres/childcare-notting-hill) ## 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.](/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.](/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.](/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](/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](/book-a-tour?centre=headstart-early-learning-centre-carnegie) [Enquire now](/enquire-now/?centre=headstart-early-learning-centre-carnegie)