Jenny's ELC - Heathcote

With strong links to the local community, this modern child care centre in Heathcote is the first in the area. Caring for children from 6 weeks all the way up to 6 years, it opened in 2019 and is part of the Heathcote Children's Hub Bunbanarik. 

Outside, the multi-age play areas allow children of all ages to explore the space together. There are sandpits, mud pits, veggie gardens, and climbing frames to enjoy.

Set between two heritage listed buildings, this centre is just a short drive to Heathcote Primary School and is open from 6:30am to 6:30pm. The centre and gardens were built with the help of volunteers and local residents, who were passionate about the children of the area having quality education available in their town.

The philosophy that drives Jenny’s Early Learning Centre Heathcote is that learning is a part of the fun.  Children are encouraged to explore their own interests while they learn.

The key values are as follows:

• Educators 

Consistency of care is paramount, and priority is given to nurturing the relationships between educators and children. Many of the passionate educators are locals, and have been with the centre since it opened. Educators help children develop the skills of independence, confidence, responsibility and connection with others.

• Community 

Local relationships are a key focus for Jenny’s Early Learning Centre Heathcote, from primary schools, sporting clubs, to the suppliers for the kitchen. The centre sees these connections as a way to facilitate a sense of belonging and identity for the children, as well as being a way to develop their social skills.

• Children 

A child is broadly connected to their family, community, culture and place, with the interactions between each providing a sense of self. Children develop and learn through these connections, with family being the first and most influential educators. The centre understands that children learn through play and that they find their own sense of identity and understanding of the world at their own pace.

• Families

To ensure the best possible outcomes for children, Jenny’s Early Learning Centre Heathcote believes that families and educators need to be working closely together. The educators welcome input from families to help guide the curriculum based on each child’s interests and family heritage. The centre is a welcoming and respectful environment which teaches children how to work with others and to value their own independence.