Business Details
40 Years
experience
Your Trusted Childcare Partner in Melbourne
Eltham Child Care Cooperative has been a cornerstone of early childhood education and care in Melbourne's north east since 1986. As a community-based, parent-run non-profit organisation, we operate under the governance of local families with support from Nillumbik Shire Council. Our service is registered as a charity and holds recognition from the Australian Childrens Education and Care Assessment Authority for exceeding national quality standards. With a team of highly trained early childhood professionals, we deliver inclusive programs that respect cultural diversity and individual learning journeys. Our educators engage in ongoing professional development to maintain excellence in childcare practices.We acknowledge the Wurundjeri people as Traditional Custodians of the land where our centre operates, extending respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. Our purpose-built facilities feature rustic outdoor spaces designed to stimulate children's development. We implement a thoughtful orientation process to ensure smooth transitions for families and children entering care. Our commitment to quality was reaffirmed in April 2023 when we received Exceeding National Quality Standard status across all seven assessment areas. Through our cooperative model, we empower families to shape childcare services that meet local community needs.
Services
Childcare Services
Early Education Programs
Nutrition Planning
Outdoor Play Areas
Parent Cooperative Involvement
Enrolment Support
Orientation Programs
Cultural Respect Programs
Details
- Year established: 1986
Highlights and features
- Community-based cooperative model with parent governance since 1986
- Awarded Exceeding National Quality Standard status across all seven assessment areas
- Educators with ongoing professional development and diverse expertise
- Inclusive environment respecting cultural diversity and individual learning needs
- Purpose-built facilities with stimulating outdoor learning spaces
Associations and certifications
- Australian Childrens Education and Care Assessment Authority
- National Quality Standard
What people say
In good hands
Very caring staff
Services
Childcare Services
Our childcare services cater to children aged 0-6 years in a nurturing environment that prioritises safety and development. We implement individualised care plans that respect each child's unique needs and cultural background. Our qualified educators create structured yet flexible routines that balance learning, play, and rest periods throughout the day.
Early Education Programs
Our educational programs follow the Early Years Learning Framework while incorporating community input through our cooperative model. Activities focus on play-based learning that develops social skills, creativity, and environmental awareness. We maintain small group sizes to ensure personalised attention and effective learning outcomes.
Parent Cooperative Involvement
As a parent-run cooperative, families actively participate in decision-making through regular meetings and committee roles. This model ensures services remain responsive to community needs while maintaining financial transparency. Parents contribute to policy development and quality improvement initiatives that shape our childcare practices.
Orientation Programs
Our orientation process supports smooth transitions for new families through gradual introduction periods and tailored adjustment strategies. We work closely with parents to understand each child's specific needs, implementing consistent care routines that build confidence and familiarity with our environment and staff.
Outdoor Play Areas
Purpose-built outdoor spaces feature natural elements that encourage physical development and environmental exploration. Our rustic play areas include climbing structures, gardening zones, and shaded learning spaces that promote active play and sensory experiences in a safe, supervised environment.
Questions
What age groups do you cater for?
We provide care and education for children from birth to six years of age.
How does the enrolment process work?
Families join our waiting list, with priority given to siblings of current attendees. When vacancies arise, we contact families in order of registration and care requirements.
Are meals provided?
Yes, we offer nutritionally balanced meals following dietary guidelines, with menus available for parent review.
What qualifications do your educators have?
All educators hold current early childhood qualifications and participate in regular professional development programs.
How do you handle cultural diversity?
We actively embrace cultural diversity through inclusive practices, respect for traditions, and Aboriginal cultural awareness programs.
What are your operating hours?
We operate Monday to Friday from 7:30am to 6:30pm, excluding public holidays and Christmas closure period.
