Business Details
Trusted Childcare and Kindergarten Services in Eltham
Eltham Woods Childcare Cooperative has been dedicated to providing high-quality early childhood education and care in a natural, inclusive environment since our establishment. Our community-based cooperative model ensures families are actively involved in shaping our programs, which cater to children aged 0 to 6 years. We prioritise creating a warm, home-like atmosphere where children develop through play, exploration, and sustainable practices within our bushland setting. Our team of qualified educators fosters holistic growth by supporting children's curiosity, social skills, and environmental awareness. As a child-safe organisation, we maintain rigorous safety standards while respecting the traditional custodianship of the Wurundjeri people.Our commitment to excellence is reflected in parent testimonials highlighting the positive experiences of children forming friendships, gaining confidence, and thriving in our care. We operate transparently with a volunteer parent committee managing operations, ensuring accountability and community engagement. Our programs integrate nature-based learning with educational frameworks to prepare children for future academic and personal success. By maintaining small group sizes and individualised attention, we create optimal conditions for each child's unique development. Our facility's design maximises natural elements to inspire creativity and physical activity while promoting environmental stewardship from an early age.
Services
Long Day Care
Kindergarten Program
Nutrition Services
Outdoor Learning
Enrolment Support
Highlights and features
- Community-based cooperative model with parent involvement
- Experienced team of qualified early childhood educators
- Natural bushland environment supporting outdoor learning
- Inclusive programs for children aged 0-6 years
- Commitment to child safety and sustainable practices
What people say
Safe, cared for and happy
Loves her time at EWCC
Exceptional care and support
Thrived in loving environment
Beautiful bush setting
Services
Long Day Care
Our long day care service provides flexible full-day supervision and education for children aged 0-6 years. We offer structured learning activities alongside free play in natural environments, with qualified educators supporting social, emotional and cognitive development. Our programs align with national early childhood frameworks while maintaining individualised care.
Kindergarten Program
Our kindergarten program prepares 3-6 year olds for school through play-based learning in a bushland setting. Certified teachers deliver curriculum-aligned activities focusing on literacy, numeracy and social skills while encouraging environmental stewardship. Small group sizes ensure personalised attention and smooth transitions to formal education.
Outdoor Learning
Our outdoor learning environment uses natural elements to foster physical development and environmental awareness. Children engage in unstructured play, gardening and bush exploration under educator supervision. This approach builds resilience, creativity and appreciation for nature through hands-on experiences in our Wurundjeri land setting.
Nutrition Services
We provide nutritious meals and snacks prepared fresh daily, accommodating dietary requirements and cultural preferences. Our menu follows healthy eating guidelines while involving children in food-related learning activities. Educators encourage healthy eating habits through mealtimes that promote social interaction and independence.
Enrolment Support
Our enrolment support team guides families through the registration process for childcare and kindergarten places. We offer orientation sessions, documentation assistance and ongoing family communication. The parent committee ensures transparent operations and community involvement in our cooperative model.
People
Aprille Aldenhoven
Centre Coordinator
Aprille Aldenhoven leads our childcare operations with extensive experience in early childhood management. She oversees daily operations, staff coordination and family engagement while maintaining our cooperative's values and educational standards.
Questions
What age groups do you cater for?
We provide care and education for children aged 0 to 6 years through our long day care and kindergarten programs.
Is your centre accredited?
We follow Australian childcare standards and maintain a child-safe environment, operating as a community-based cooperative with qualified educators.
What learning approach do you use?
Our programs combine play-based learning with nature exploration, focusing on holistic development and environmental awareness in our bushland setting.
How do you involve families?
As a cooperative, we actively involve parents through our volunteer committee, regular communication and family engagement activities.
What are your operating hours?
We operate Monday to Friday from 7:00am to 6:30pm, excluding public holidays, with flexible full-day care options.
How do I enrol my child?
Contact our centre coordinator for enrolment information, availability and registration process details for our childcare and kindergarten programs.
