Business Details
39 Years
experience
Trusted Child Care & Preschool Programs in Doncaster East
Established in 1987, Gumnut Gully Preschool is an independent, not-for-profit organisation dedicated to fostering a child-safe environment that prioritises the rights, growth, and development of every child. Our programs are grounded in the Victorian Early Years Learning and Development Framework and the National Quality Framework, achieving an 'Exceeding' rating in all seven areas by the Australian Children's Education and Care Quality Authority in 2023. We believe in play-based learning, where children explore, discover, and build resilience through structured yet flexible experiences tailored to individual and group needs. Our unique Bush Kinder program, set in the Mullum Mullum Linear Park, encourages learning through nature, promoting creativity, problem-solving, and physical development.We maintain strong partnerships with families, ensuring open communication and shared insights to enrich each child's educational journey. Our facilities feature expansive outdoor play areas, including climbing frames, sandpits, bike tracks, and shaded spaces, complemented by comprehensive policies aligned with national standards. With a committee of parents and carers overseeing operations, we strive to create a nurturing, inclusive community where every child feels valued, respected, and inspired to learn.
Services
3-Year-Old Kinder
4-Year-Old Kinder
Bush Kinder Program
Play-Based Learning
Community Engagement
Details
- Year established: 1987
Highlights and features
- 30+ years of experience in early childhood education since 1987
- Awarded 'Exceeding' National Quality Standard rating in 2023
- Unique Bush Kinder program in natural bushland settings
- Highly qualified educators with a focus on individual child development
- Commitment to child safety and family partnerships
Associations and certifications
- Australian Children's Education and Care Quality Authority
What people say
Wonderful educators
Thrived in environment
Beautiful friendships
Excellent bush kinder
Caring nurturing staff
Services
Bush Kinder Program
Our Bush Kinder Program immerses children in natural environments, fostering exploration, creativity, and physical development. Through guided outdoor activities, children engage with nature to build problem-solving skills, social connections, and environmental awareness. This initiative aligns with our philosophy that learning occurs best through hands-on, experiential play in diverse settings.
3-Year-Old Kinder
The 3-Year-Old Kinder program focuses on foundational social, emotional, and cognitive development. Structured sessions encourage independence, curiosity, and peer interaction, supported by educators who nurture each child's unique growth journey. Activities blend play and intentional teaching to prepare children for future educational milestones.
4-Year-Old Kinder
Our 4-Year-Old Kinder program builds literacy, numeracy, and resilience through play-based and intentional teaching. Children develop confidence, critical thinking, and collaborative skills in a stimulating environment that values individual expression and prepares them for school readiness.
Play-Based Learning
Play-Based Learning at Gum Nut Gully encourages children to explore, discover, and problem-solve through self-directed activities. Educators facilitate meaningful experiences that integrate literacy, numeracy, and social skills, ensuring learning is engaging, relevant, and tailored to each child's interests and developmental stage.
Community Engagement
Community Engagement initiatives strengthen connections between families, educators, and the local area. Through events, open days, and collaborative decision-making via our parent committee, we foster a supportive network that enriches children's learning experiences and promotes a sense of belonging.
Questions
What immunisation requirements are needed for enrolment?
Enrolment requires proof of up-to-date immunisations as per the 'No Jab No Play' laws. Exemptions are accepted with appropriate documentation.
How does the Bush Kinder program work?
Bush Kinder occurs weekly in local parks, where children engage in nature-based learning through guided exploration, physical challenges, and environmental discovery.
What are the session times for 3 and 4-year-olds?
3-year-olds attend Tuesday and Thursday (8:30am-12:30pm and 1pm-5pm). 4-year-olds have varied sessions Monday-Friday, with full and half-day options.
How does Gum Nut Gully involve families?
Families participate through regular updates, parent committees, social events, and collaborative decision-making to shape the kindergarten's direction and activities.
What makes Gum Nut Gully's approach unique?
Our play-based curriculum, Bush Kinder program, and focus on individual child development create a holistic, nature-connected learning experience that prioritises emotional and social growth.
Reviews (6)
Greek Lamb
Dec 21, 2021
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Positive:Communication,Professionalism,Quality
The most caring, supportive and amazing teachers! My son loved going to kinder to learn and see his friends. If you have a little one please send him or her to Gum Nut Gully Preschool, they will love it!
The most caring, supportive and amazing teachers! My son loved going to kinder to learn and see his friends. If you have a little one please send him or her to Gum Nut Gully Preschool, they will love it!
Sahar Kiani
Jan 10, 2020
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I absolutely recommend them.they are very kind and professional, my son had a very bad experience from previous kindergarten but they helped him a lot, really I appreciate them and I am very happy to meet this kindergarten.
Bj Turner
Aug 23, 2019
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Gum Nut Gully Pre-School is set in a lovely bush setting location, bordered by Mullum Mullum Linear Park and Currawong Park. It was establish in 1987 and has always catered for the area. Very dedicated caring experienced staff with a great friendly family environment. It was warded Overall EXCEEDING National Quality Standard by Australian Children's Education and Care Quality Authority in 2018.
Gum Nut Gully Pre-School offers a 3 and 4 year old early learning program.
Gum Nut Gully Pre-School offers a 3 and 4 year old early learning program.
Sian Olivier
Aug 10, 2019
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The bush kinder program is so amazing and the natural play is so stimulating and rewarding for the children!
Andrew Hull
Oct 09, 2017
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As both a parent at Gum Nut Gully as well as a volunteer Committee member in 2017, I have only high praise for the Teachers and educational program. I'll be sending my next child to Gum Nut Gully for sure.
Ratna Gupta
Jun 08, 2017
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Highly recommend this wonderful kinder! The teachers are patient and caring. It is in a picturesque scenery with greenery all around and the outdoor play area is excellent. We chose this kinder even though it's not the closest kinder to our house.
