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3 day guarantee

McKenzie Street Children's Centre

Limited spots remaining

Enrolment availability

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

  • Monday
  • Tuesday
  • Wednesday
  • Thursday
  • Friday

Childcare and kindergarten in Wonthaggi, VIC

McKenzie 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 Wonthaggi, North Wonthaggi, South Dudley and St Clair.

Large, natural outdoor environments

Children have access to two large outdoor spaces with a mud kitchen, two sandpits, a bike track, multiple decking areas, an edible Indigenous garden and established fruit trees. These environments encourage active play, exploration and hands-on learning about nature and caring for the environment.

Natural light and classroom resources

Each classroom is easily accessible, filled with natural light and equipped with natural resources. The learning spaces are designed to support play-based experiences, creativity, group learning and quieter moments throughout the day.

Long-standing educator team

Our long-standing, highly trained educators create a calm and familiar environment for children. Their consistent relationships help children feel comfortable, safe and supported as they learn, play and build confidence. Individual Learning Plans are developed in partnership with families, reflecting each child’s strengths, interests and developmental goals.

Government-approved Kindergarten program

Our Government-approved Kindergarten program helps children build confidence, independence and skills for school. We maintain a strong connection with local schools, who visit our service to prepare kindergarten children for their transition to school.

Cricket oval outings and sports

Children regularly use the local cricket oval for outings and sports activities. These experiences give children space for movement, teamwork and active play while helping them connect with familiar places in their local community.

Healthy meals and family app updates

Nutritious meals are provided throughout the day, supporting children’s health and wellbeing. Families can stay connected through our app, which provides regular updates about their child’s learning, activities, routines and daily experiences.

Secure your place today

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

Meet our Centre Manager

Victoria

  • Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care
  • Diploma of Training and Assessment
“Every child is a confident and capable learner, and my role is to provide the right environment, encouragement, and support for them to explore, take risks, and build resilience. ”

I have been working in early childhood education since 2007, and my passion for this field has only grown over the years. My journey began in high school when I took early education as a subject and completed work placements. Watching children make new discoveries – seeing their faces light up with excitement – was something that truly inspired me. Nearly two decades later, I still love being part of their learning journey.

I strongly believe in children’s voices, rights, and autonomy. Every child is a confident and capable learner, and my role is to provide the right environment, encouragement, and support for them to explore, take risks, and build resilience. I embrace a teaching style that allows children to learn through trial and error, fostering their independence and self-confidence.

At McKenzie Street Children’s Centre, we create a rich, engaging environment where children expand their knowledge, develop social skills, and feel safe to express themselves. Early learning provides experiences beyond what is possible at home, with tailored programs that nurture each child’s strengths, interests, and development.

Our team is made up of diverse and passionate educators who bring their unique skills, qualifications, and experiences into their teaching. We work collaboratively, drawing on different perspectives to continuously reflect on and improve our practices. We are always evolving to meet the needs of children and families, ensuring we align with best practices and emerging trends in early education.

Building strong relationships with families is at the heart of what we do. We greet every family with warmth and ensure open communication through face-to-face chats, our online app, emails, phone calls, and feedback surveys. We also embrace and incorporate each family’s unique culture, values, and routines into our centre, fostering a true sense of belonging. Parents and caregivers are always welcome to be actively involved in our centre’s operations and special events.

At McKenzie Street Children’s Centre, we are more than just an early learning service – we are a community that nurtures children, supports families, and provides a foundation for lifelong learning.

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Our innovative early learning programs

At our early learning centre in Wonthaggi, our experienced educators and teachers continually seek innovative ways to enrich your child’s education. Guided by the Early Years Learning Framework, we offer a variety of engaging and diverse learning experiences, including:

Sustainability

Our team offers a creative arts program that uses sustainable products. Children also utilise recycled materials that families donate for various activities throughout the centre. We also have compost bins on each food trolley.

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.

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

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(0-2 years)

Seedlings Room

In the Seedlings Room, our primary goal is to support children in reaching their developmental milestones while fostering secure and trusting relationships. We create a nurturing environment that helps children transition into care with ease. Our learning activities also promote physical, emotional, and cognitive growth, ensuring each child feels safe and valued.

  Next: Foliage Room
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(2-3 years)

Foliage Room

The Foliage Room focuses on meeting developmental milestones, building relationships with peers, and developing self-help skills, including toilet training. Our educators aim to create a supportive environment where children can build trusted relationships and enhance their social, language and independence skills.

Previous: Seedlings Room Next: Buds Room
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(3-4 years)

Buds Room

In the Buds Room, our learning goals include fostering peer relationships, developing self-help skills, and encouraging independence, such as name recognition. We focus on developing social skills and building trusted relationships with educators, promoting a sense of community and individual growth. This also prepares children for more structured learning in kindergarten.

Previous: Foliage Room Next: Flowers Room
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(4-6 years)

Flowers Room

The Flowers Room prepares children for school by focusing on peer relationships, self-help skills, social skills, developing a sense of responsibility for their belongings, and trusted relationships with educators. Our Bachelor-qualified Early Childhood Teachers provide structured learning experiences to develop literacy, numeracy skills and social skills. We ensure children are academically and emotionally ready for their transition to school.

Previous: Buds Room  
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We’re all about healthy, nutritious eating

Thanks to the in-house chef at our Wonthaggi 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

$182.65/day

Toddler

2 – 4 years

$182.65/day

Kindergarten

4 – 5 years

$159.30/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 = 12 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

4.4(43 reviews)
Source: Google Business Profile. Reviews are correct at the time of accessing this webpage.

Bianca Camenzuli

Nurture one McKenzie is an amazing facility. The entire team of educators have done wonders for my son’s personal growth from being really scared, not wanting to go at all, to always wanting to go and never wanting to come home. I can’t applaud the…. See more Nurture one McKenzie is an amazing facility. The entire team of educators have done wonders for my son’s personal growth from being really scared, not wanting to go at all, to always wanting to go and never wanting to come home. I can’t applaud the staff enough. I’m forever grateful for everything they have done for my son and what they continue to do. Sending him to McKenzie street was the best decision I’ve ever made.

Alycia Bird

I cannot speak highly enough of the staff at McKenzie street. I have a socially timid 20month old who I had to commence casual days with at the centre after relocating from the GC. Unfortunately due to work commitments and being a solo mum, I was…. See more I cannot speak highly enough of the staff at McKenzie street. I have a socially timid 20month old who I had to commence casual days with at the centre after relocating from the GC. Unfortunately due to work commitments and being a solo mum, I was unable to attend orientation days or 'settle' my daughter in as I had hoped. Victoria and all the staff were so supportive. My daughter ended up attending multiple days and very quickly settled in and absolutely LOVES attending. After only a week drop offs were a breeze. Real testament to the staff at the centre, who have obviously made her feel very safe and secure. Vic has been amazing helping me with all the CCS and admin side of things too

Laura Benson

McKenzie St educators offer amazing support to both kids and parents. We’ve had an amazing experience here and grateful that our son has been able to be in their care!

Alyce Cuman

I have been so pleased with the team at Nuture One. They greet us with a big smile, and have supported my daughter to settle into daycare. I love receiving the learning observations via the app and seeing our little girl have fun with her new…. See more I have been so pleased with the team at Nuture One. They greet us with a big smile, and have supported my daughter to settle into daycare. I love receiving the learning observations via the app and seeing our little girl have fun with her new friends. Thank you!

Jemma Rutjens

My child has been here since he was 6 weeks old and has just turned 2. Couldnt be happier with the team that look after him. He is always happy to come and never wants to leave. Excited to continue to see his learning journey. Also love how I am…. See more My child has been here since he was 6 weeks old and has just turned 2. Couldnt be happier with the team that look after him. He is always happy to come and never wants to leave. Excited to continue to see his learning journey. Also love how I am greated in the morning by the office team with their smiling faces!

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.