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3 day guarantee

Brown Street Children's Centre

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Enrolment availability

The information below gives an indication of current availability at the centre.

  • Monday
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  • Wednesday
  • Thursday
  • Friday

Childcare and kindergarten in Leongatha, VIC

Brown Street Children’s Centre offers long day care and a kindergarten program for children aged 6 weeks to 6 years, conveniently located for families in Leongatha, Korumburra, Kardella, Koonwarra, Meeniyan and Nerrena.

Spacious outdoor environment

Children have plenty of room to move, explore and spend time outdoors, with a bike track, large sandpit, yarning circle, vegetable garden and climbing equipment. These spaces support active play, nature-based learning and connection to the outdoor environment.

Child-led early learning curriculum

Our curriculum follows children’s interests, strengths and ideas, helping each child feel seen and valued as an individual. Educators plan learning experiences that give children opportunities to make choices, explore at their own pace and build confidence.

Passionate and nurturing team

Our educators and teachers create environments where children feel secure, welcome and comfortable. Their caring approach helps children build trusting relationships, settle into routines and take part in learning experiences across the day.

Individual Learning Plans for every child

We create Individual Learning Plans for each child, based on their interests, strengths and developmental goals, and partner with families to regularly review and update each plan.

Government-approved Kindergarten program

Our Government-approved Kindergarten program focuses on language, literacy, numeracy and social skills to support a smooth transition to school. Children build confidence through play-based learning, routines, friendships and growing independence.

Yoga sessions and Bush Kinder

Children enjoy yoga sessions every Thursday, delivered by a local gym, giving them time for movement, balance and calm. Our Bush Kinder program also gives children opportunities to explore natural spaces and build confidence outdoors.

Community library and pantry

Our community library and pantry offers practical support for families and helps strengthen the centre’s sense of community. It gives families a simple way to share resources, access support and feel connected to the centre.

Healthy meals and app updates

Children are offered fresh meals and snacks throughout the day, with menus planned for variety and balance. Families can follow their child’s day through our family app, with photos and updates about routines, play, learning and centre experiences.

Secure your place today

Book a tour to experience the centre and confirm availability for your child.

Meet our Centre Manager

Tash

7 years with our centre

  • Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care
  • Working towards Bachelor of Education
“What I love most is building strong relationships with children, families, and educators, and creating a positive environment where everyone feels supported and able to thrive.”

I have been working in early childhood education since 2015 and joined Brown Street Children’s Centre in 2019. I was inspired to pursue this profession by my passion for supporting children’s learning and development during their most formative years. What I love most is building strong relationships with children, families, and educators, and creating a positive environment where everyone feels supported and able to thrive.

Throughout my career, I have learned that every child is unique and develops at their own pace. Children learn best when they feel safe, valued, and engaged in meaningful, play-based experiences. This understanding guides my approach by encouraging me to build strong relationships, follow children’s interests, support individual learning needs, and create inclusive environments where every child can develop confidence and reach their potential.

While learning at home is incredibly valuable and families are a child’s first teachers, early childhood education provides additional opportunities through structured, play-based programs designed by qualified educators. Children benefit from social interactions, diverse experiences, and learning opportunities that support their cognitive, emotional, physical, and language development, while also building confidence, independence, and school readiness skills.

I am incredibly proud of our team. We have a long-standing and dedicated group of educators, with many team members having been part of the centre for several years. Around 95% of our educators hold a Diploma qualification or higher, and our strong educational leadership team includes three Early Childhood Teachers and three educators working towards their teaching qualifications. Our diverse team brings a wealth of experience, perspectives, and cultural backgrounds that enrich our learning environment and strengthen our connections with families and the wider community.

Building strong, trusting relationships with families is one of my key priorities. I believe open, honest, and respectful communication is the foundation of effective partnerships. We take the time to understand each family’s needs, maintain regular communication about their child’s learning and wellbeing, and create opportunities for families to be actively involved in centre life. By fostering a welcoming and inclusive environment, we build strong partnerships that support the best possible outcomes for children.

I look forward to welcoming your family to our Leongatha early education centre.

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Our innovative early learning programs

At our early learning centre in Leongatha, our play-based curriculum is guided by the Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF), supporting children to learn through play, exploration and discovery.

Sustainability

Our sustainability program engages children in meaningful activities such as tending to seedlings, composting, collecting leftover water, and maintaining our vegetable garden and worm farm, fostering a sense of purpose and belonging.

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.

Exploration and problem solving

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.

Music and movement

Our exclusive Rhythm and Movement for Self-Regulation (RAMSR) program is designed to develop fundamental skills that help support children’s self-regulation, memory, and concentration. It is an innovative approach to holistic learning, development and well-being in early childhood.

Age-appropriate early learning

We provide learning experiences tailored to each stage of your child’s development. Our programs are guided by the Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF) and designed to support children’s wellbeing, confidence and growing independence.

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0-2 years

Nursery

Nursery

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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.

Educators work closely with families to support each baby’s routines, comfort and developmental needs.

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
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2-3 years

Toddlers

Toddlers

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2-3 years

Our toddler program encourages curiosity, independence and early social skills as children explore the world with growing confidence.

Educators support toddlers to express their ideas, make choices and develop confidence in their abilities.

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
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3-5 years

Kindergarten

Kindergarten

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3-5 years

Led by Bachelor-qualified Early Childhood Teachers, our Goverment-approved 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
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We’re all about healthy, nutritious eating

Thanks to the in-house chef at our Leongatha 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

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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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

$150.55/day

Toddler

2 – 4 years

$150.55/day

Kindergarten

4 – 5 years

$150.55/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.

**1-4 days = 11.5 hour sessions, 5 days = 100 hours

Changes to CCS – The 3-Day Guarantee (Starting 5th January 2026)

The Australian Government is replacing the Child Care Subsidy (CCS) Activity Test from 5th January 2026, to provide a min. 72 hours per fortnight or 3 days per week of subsidised early childhood education and care (ECEC) for eligible families.

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

What our families say

4.6(16 reviews)
Source: Google Business Profile. Reviews are correct at the time of accessing this webpage.

Suz Jones

Our daughter has been going to Brown Street for almost 18 months and we could not be happier with the care that she receives there. The educators know the kids really well and are kind and supportive. She has had good continuity of care and the…. See more Our daughter has been going to Brown Street for almost 18 months and we could not be happier with the care that she receives there. The educators know the kids really well and are kind and supportive. She has had good continuity of care and the ability to build close relationships with adults and other kids. The food that they prepare seems really great and the educators use the app consistently so we can always see what she has eaten, naps, bathroom visits as well as updates and photos of her day.

Alisha Veldhuizen

My daughter has been attending brown street childcare for just over 6 months, they provide such a happy and supportive environment. The educators are amazing with the children and really help them thrive. I couldn’t be more happy with our experience…. See more My daughter has been attending brown street childcare for just over 6 months, they provide such a happy and supportive environment. The educators are amazing with the children and really help them thrive. I couldn’t be more happy with our experience at brown street. Thank you to the educators for being so good with my daughter and helping her learn in such an important time in her life.

Paris Benn

My daughter attends this daycare in the nursery 1 room. I cannot rate the girls enough in that room! They make my daughter feel so special and loved!

Brittany Stanley

My son attends brown street children’s centre for 3 years and The staff there are truly amazing. They go above and beyond to create a nurturing and supportive environment. My son is always excited to go and comes back home with a big smile on his…. See more My son attends brown street children’s centre for 3 years and The staff there are truly amazing. They go above and beyond to create a nurturing and supportive environment. My son is always excited to go and comes back home with a big smile on his face. The center provides a wide range of activities that help him explore and develop new skills. From arts and crafts to outdoor play, there's always something fun and educational happening. I appreciate how the staff takes the time to understand each child's individual needs and interests. They provide personalized attention and guidance, which has greatly contributed to my child's growth and development. I feel so grateful to have found such a wonderful place for my little one to learn and thrive! 😊👶🌟

Natasha Davis

We had our daughter here 5 years ago and loved it – super convenient having everything provided! We have recently started our baby here and again are really enjoying it. The team always greet us with a smile and are thorough with her ever changing…. See more We had our daughter here 5 years ago and loved it – super convenient having everything provided! We have recently started our baby here and again are really enjoying it. The team always greet us with a smile and are thorough with her ever changing routine! We especially love the regular updates throughout the day in the XPLOR app, and again, convenience of having everything inclusive. Management are also fantastic and go above and beyond to assist.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Nurture One uses Xplor Home as our family communication app. 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, Nurture One 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.