--- title: "Childcare Essendon" url: https://www.kinderhaven.com.au/our-centres/childcare-essendon description: "Get the best start to early learning with our child care and kindergarten programs at Kinder Haven Essendon. Enquire today to secure a place." type: page date: 2024-10-02 modified: 2026-07-28 --- # Childcare Essendon ## Essendon Fields Kinder Haven Places available [35 Bristol Street Essendon VIC 3041](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=35+Bristol+Street+Essendon+VIC+3041) [1800 413 856](tel:1800%20413%20856) [essendonfields@kinderhaven.com.au](mailto:essendonfields@kinderhaven.com.au) Monday - Friday 6:30 AM – 6:30 PM Daily fees before CCS Nursery $193.60 Toddler $193.60 Kindergarten $193.60 [Calculate your out-of-pocket cost](.g8-centre-fees) [4.8 /5 40 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](/book-a-tour?centre=essendon-fields-kinder-haven) [Enquire now](/enquire-now/?centre=essendon-fields-kinder-haven) ## Childcare and kindergarten in Airport West, Victoria Kinder Haven Essendon Fields offers long day care and a kindergarten program for children aged 6 weeks to 6 years, conveniently located for families in Essendon Fields, Airport West, Essendon, Gladstone Park, Strathmore, Niddrie and Tullamarine. #### Vibrant and engaging learning spaces Children can enjoy vibrant outdoor spaces set up for ball games, bike riding, climbing and sand play. Indoors, spacious rooms feature large floor-to-ceiling windows and sliding doors that fill the centre with natural light. The bright, open environments give children a welcoming setting for play-based learning, creative experiences and quieter moments across the day. #### Multicultural educator team Kinder Haven Essendon Fields is a multicultural centre that celebrates the diverse backgrounds of its children and educators. This diversity is woven into daily life at the centre, giving children the opportunity to learn about different cultures, languages and perspectives from an early age. #### Individual Learning Plans Individual Learning Plans are developed in partnership with families and used to guide learning around each child's strengths, interests and goals. Educators draw on these plans to shape experiences that suit each child's needs and stage of development. #### Government-approved Kindergarten program Our Government-approved Kindergarten program is delivered by a Bachelor-qualified Early Childhood Teacher and prepares children for the transition to school. Children build skills and confidence through play-based learning, routines, friendships and growing independence. #### Dance, movement and local walks Children take part in a weekly dance and movement program across all age groups. The centre also enjoys regular walks to the neighbouring Essendon Airport to watch planes and helicopters, giving children a distinctive local experience that sparks curiosity and conversation. #### Fresh meals and family app updates Fresh meals are prepared daily by our on-site chef, with menus planned to give children energy for play, learning and rest. Allergies and individual dietary requirements are catered for. Families can follow their child's day through our family app, with daily photos and updates about learning experiences and development. ## Secure your place today Book a tour to experience the centre and confirm availability for your child. [Book a tour](/book-a-tour?centre=essendon-fields-kinder-haven) [Enquire now](/enquire-now/?centre=essendon-fields-kinder-haven) ## Meet our Centre Manager Daniella ### “I cherish the opportunity to create an environment where play is integral to learning.” I began my career in Early Childhood Education and Care in 2004. I am deeply proud to work in a sector that contributes so much to the community. As an educator and Centre Manager, I cherish the opportunity to create an environment where play is integral to learning, and observing each child’s development is a daily joy. Our Essendon early learning centre exudes a warm, family atmosphere, with the inviting aromas of cooking and the joyful sounds of educators laughing and children engaging with their peers. Located in a corporate business zone, we welcome parents to visit their children for lunch, adding to the vibrant community feel. We look forward to welcoming your family to our Essendon early education centre. 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. #### Social and emotional learning Children develop a strong sense of identity as they feel safe, secure and supported, building confidence, resilience and a positive sense of self. Through group activities, conversations and play, children learn to interact with others with care, empathy and respect, building positive relationships and friendships. #### 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. #### Cultural responsiveness and inclusion Children learn about different cultures, languages and traditions through shared experiences that encourage respect, curiosity and a sense of belonging. Educators value and support children’s home languages and ways of communicating, strengthening identity and connection to community. ## 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.kinderhaven.com.au/family-information/funded-kindergarten-preschool/victoria) ## We’re all about healthy, nutritious eating Thanks to the in-house chef at our Airport West 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. We 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 $193.60/day Toddler 2 - 4 years $193.60/day Kindergarten 4 - 5 years $193.60/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 4.8(40 reviews) Source: Google Business Profile. Reviews are correct at the time of accessing this webpage. ### Bridget McCarthy We genuinely cannot fault the care our children receive at Kinder Haven. Every educator is kind, engaged and incredibly accommodating — especially the support and care shown to our family after our son’s coeliac disease diagnosis. Our children’s.... **See more** We genuinely cannot fault the care our children receive at Kinder Haven. Every educator is kind, engaged and incredibly accommodating — especially the support and care shown to our family after our son’s coeliac disease diagnosis. Our children’s learning and confidence have skyrocketed, and they are genuinely excited to go to daycare each day. The team is exceptional: Punam’s warmth, love and attention, Daniella keeping everything running seamlessly with brilliant communication, Jackie’s energy and passion for helping little people thrive, and Star, Tina, Claire, Maria and Indrani (and all the rest of the team) nurturing and growing the kids so beautifully. What an incredible team. We feel so lucky to be part of this centre. ### Christopher David We're so glad that we made the change to have our daughter attend Kinder Haven Essendon Fields! The team led by Daniella and Sarah are all amazing (special mentions to Jacqui, Punam and Maria D) who make our daughter feel special everyday. We have.... **See more** We're so glad that we made the change to have our daughter attend Kinder Haven Essendon Fields! The team led by Daniella and Sarah are all amazing (special mentions to Jacqui, Punam and Maria D) who make our daughter feel special everyday. We have definitely seen a noticeable change in our Daughter's development since attending the centre, which stalled at our original childcare centre, and looking forward to continuing having our children attend the centre to give them the best foundation for learning. Keep up the amazing work! ### Stacey Ryan My daughter has attended for the past four years and cannot fault the centre at all. The team value the kids in their rooms, are constantly teaching them new skills and providing the utmost care and kindness to all of the kids. The Essendon fields.... **See more** My daughter has attended for the past four years and cannot fault the centre at all. The team value the kids in their rooms, are constantly teaching them new skills and providing the utmost care and kindness to all of the kids. The Essendon fields team have become family to us, no matter what room we’ve been in, we’ve always had a good relationship with the educators in all of the rooms. Daniella, thank you for always having an open door, and for making sure everything is how it should be within the rooms. And to past and present teachers who’ve helped mould my daughter into who she is today, thank you. I couldn’t have done it without you guys. ### Ana Sofia Wille We have been with this centre for almost two years after recommendations from friends. I cannot fault Daniella and her team for all the effort and attention they give to my kids there on a daily basis. My kinder kid and toddler have undergone many.... **See more** We have been with this centre for almost two years after recommendations from friends. I cannot fault Daniella and her team for all the effort and attention they give to my kids there on a daily basis. My kinder kid and toddler have undergone many big changes during that time which the centre has supported and worked around including potty training, picky eating, nap refusal and separation anxiety. It’s also wonderful to see that most of the staff have been there for many years and have created strong bonds with both kids over that time so room changes as they aged up have been incredibly easy! ### Vic Visitor The centre needs to be investigated. The nursery room had 11 children to only 2 educators this morning, which is not operating to required standards and raises serious concerns for the safety and supervision of both children and staff. The director.... **See more** The centre needs to be investigated. The nursery room had 11 children to only 2 educators this morning, which is not operating to required standards and raises serious concerns for the safety and supervision of both children and staff. The director was notified, and her explanation was that the third staff member was on break. However, staff breaks should always be covered to ensure ratios are maintained and children’s safety, supervision, and care are not compromised. This is very concerning, particularly in a nursery setting where constant supervision and appropriate staffing are essential. ### 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! - [Casa Bambini Essendon 3.21km](https://www.casabambini.com.au/our-centres/childcare-essendon) - [Community Kids Pascoe Vale Early Education Centre 3.41km](https://www.communitykids.com.au/our-centres/childcare-pascoe-vale) - [Casa Bambini Coburg 5.98km](https://www.casabambini.com.au/our-centres/childcare-coburg) ## 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. ## Kinder Haven 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, Kinder Haven 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=essendon-fields-kinder-haven) [Enquire now](/enquire-now/?centre=essendon-fields-kinder-haven)