Our Rooms
Children are grouped by age in five rooms, each set up for how children of that age learn, rest and play. Every room opens onto our shaded outdoor playground, and all five share our indoor gym for active play on cold or rainy days.
Sakura, Our Nursery 6 weeks – 12 months
Educator-to-child ratio 1:4
In Sakura, each baby’s own feeding, sleep and comfort needs always come first. Educators follow your baby’s cues and the routine you share with us, so days feel familiar and calm.
- floor play, tummy time, sensory exploring, music and books
- gentle outdoor play in the fresh air
- bottles, meals and sleep at your baby’s own times
- a chat at pick-up about sleeps, feeds and how the day went
Orchid 12 – 24 months
Educator-to-child ratio 1:4
Orchid children are busy explorers. Educators plan experiences in small groups and one-to-one, and sleep and rest still follow each child’s own needs.
- stories, songs, music and movement
- sensory play and early art
- first words and simple key word signs
- books and songs together in the late afternoon
Wattle 2 – 3 years
Educator-to-child ratio 1:5
Toddlers in Wattle are growing in independence. Group times bring stories, music, art and movement, and there is plenty of active outdoor play: running, climbing and balancing.
- group learning time with stories, music and art
- active outdoor play and our indoor gym
- help with dressing, toileting and serving food when children are ready
- rest that suits each child
Lotus, Junior Preschool 3 – 4 years
Educator-to-child ratio 1:10
Lotus begins our preschool years. Educators use intentional teaching in small and large groups, and children help plan projects from their own interests.
- literacy, numeracy and science through play
- creative arts, music, movement and yoga
- projects that follow children’s questions
- a first step towards the move to school
Kielo, Senior Preschool 4 – 5 years
Educator-to-child ratio 1:10
Kielo is led by an early childhood teacher who works alongside our educators. The program builds the social, emotional, communication and thinking skills that help children start school with confidence.
- literacy, numeracy, science, arts and group projects chosen with the children
- relaxation with yoga, mindfulness, books or quiet activities
- a Transition to School Statement for each child starting school (with your consent)
- our Preschool Graduation and end-of-year celebration in December
A Typical Day
Our day is a rhythm, not a timetable: times are flexible and every part of the day, including meals, rest and moving between activities, is a chance to learn. Babies in Sakura and Orchid follow their own routines for feeds and sleep.
- Arrival Families sign in on OWNA and an educator welcomes your child.
- Morning outdoor play Mixed-age play in the playground.
- Morning tea and group time Rooms come together for morning tea, an Acknowledgement of Country and planned learning.
- Learning and play Indoor and outdoor experiences planned from children’s interests.
- Lunch In small groups, with educators sitting with children.
- Rest and quiet time Sleep for those who need it, and quiet reading, puzzles or relaxation for others.
- Afternoon tea, play and learning More time outdoors and in the rooms.
- Late snack and stories A late afternoon snack and stories together as families arrive.
- Home time Educators share how the day went, and the day’s photos and stories are in OWNA.
We suggest arriving before 9.30 am so your child can join the morning’s planned learning.
Moving to a New Room
When your child is ready for the next room, we plan the move with you. Children visit their new room with familiar friends first, the move happens gradually, and educators send photo updates so you can see how your child is settling.