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3 day guarantee

Napier Street Children's Centre

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Enrolment availability

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

  • Monday
  • Tuesday
  • Wednesday
  • Thursday
  • Friday

Childcare and kindergarten in Bendigo, VIC

Napier 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 White Hills, Strathdale, Kennington, Bendigo, California Gully and North Bendigo.

Expansive outdoor environments

Children can explore expansive outdoor play spaces with wooden forts, fairy gardens and separate yards designed for different age groups. These areas give children room to move, imagine, climb and build confidence through safe, age-appropriate outdoor play.

Indoor spaces with natural resources

Indoors, children learn in engaging spaces with a mix of natural and purpose-built resources. The kinder room also includes an interactive whiteboard, supporting group learning, play-based experiences and early skill building.

Long-standing educator team

Our long-standing educators and teachers provide consistency for children and families, with some team members having been with the centre for more than 12 years. Strong relationships help children feel secure, known and supported.

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.

Community incursions and excursions

Children take part in community walks, interest-based incursions and excursions that enrich their learning experiences. These opportunities help children explore local places, meet new people and connect their interests with the wider world.

Healthy meals provided daily

Children enjoy nutritious meals and snacks provided throughout the day. Mealtimes encourage positive eating habits, social interaction and opportunities for children to build independence in a relaxed and supportive environment.

Daily updates through our family app

Families can stay connected through our family communication app, with updates about routines, learning experiences and important centre information. Regular communication helps families stay informed and engaged in their child’s day and ongoing learning journey.

Secure your place today

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

Meet our Centre Manager

Jessica

  • Diploma of Children’s Services
“We believe in nurturing each child’s learning in a way that best suits them, recognising that everyone learns differently.”

I have been part of the Napier Street Children’s Centre team for over 10 years, progressing from Lead Educator to Assistant Centre Manager, and now to Centre Manager. My passions are cooking and working with children. I first completed a chef apprenticeship, working in various restaurants throughout Bendigo. My enduring passion for working with children led me to study for my Diploma, allowing me to combine my two passions. Bringing the kitchen into children’s rooms offers countless learning opportunities.

We have built an exceptional team here at Napier Street in Bendigo. We believe in nurturing each child’s learning in a way that best suits them, recognising that everyone learns differently. Our goal is to discover what works best for your child.

I enjoy building trusting relationships with educators, families, and children, ensuring they feel safe and secure. We strive for consistency throughout the rooms and the centre. Each educator brings unique passions and skills to the team, and we nurture these talents, as well as those of the children and families.

I look forward to welcoming your family to Bendigo early education centre.

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Our innovative early learning programs

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

Sustainability

We have water tanks in all our yards for children to water the gardens and during play. Green bins for vegetable scraps and recycling bins are available to promote sustainable practices. Children also help care for our centre pets.

Creative Arts

Children express ideas and make meaning using a range of creative experiences, including painting, drawing, drama, dance, storytelling,music and craft activities. These experiences encourage imagination, self-expression and confidence while supporting fine motor development.

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

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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Healthy, nutritious meals each day

Thanks to the in-house chef at our Bendigo 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

$186.50/day

Toddler

2 – 4 years

$186.50/day

Kindergarten

4 – 5 years

$175.65/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

4.6(14 reviews)
Source: Google Business Profile. Reviews are correct at the time of accessing this webpage.

Justin King

Our son has only been a the centre for 2 months and we could not be more impressed! From a manager who is always attentive despite being extremely busy, to the wonderful caring staff in each of the rooms who go to extraordinary lengths to settle the…. See more Our son has only been a the centre for 2 months and we could not be more impressed! From a manager who is always attentive despite being extremely busy, to the wonderful caring staff in each of the rooms who go to extraordinary lengths to settle the children in to first time care, it has been a positive experience with little parental angst! Meals are fresh and variety is offered. Communication is also spot on, and regular centre updates which keep parents informed of plans and changes. Well done to all!

Rachael O

Cant say enough good things about Nurture One! The staff are amazing and have always been there to comfort my little person when she's needed it. The Kinder program is exceptional! Vanessa and Latisha are stars and you can tell they really care…. See more Cant say enough good things about Nurture One! The staff are amazing and have always been there to comfort my little person when she's needed it. The Kinder program is exceptional! Vanessa and Latisha are stars and you can tell they really care about what they do and it shows through the kids. My child is %100 school ready because of these people and the Kinder program!

Amba Church

Never contacted back after their gloss over automated “sorry about you’re experience bull” don’t send you neurodivergent kids here if you want them told “you’ll never see your friends again” and god knows what else they say when a parent isn’t…. See more Never contacted back after their gloss over automated “sorry about you’re experience bull” don’t send you neurodivergent kids here if you want them told “you’ll never see your friends again” and god knows what else they say when a parent isn’t listening. Horrific.

Rachael Wells

Im so glad i chose Napier Street Children's Centre to be the daycare for my Daughter, The staff are wonderful and have always made me feel like my daughter is the only child in their care. Front of house staff have been AMAZING and have helped me…. See more Im so glad i chose Napier Street Children's Centre to be the daycare for my Daughter, The staff are wonderful and have always made me feel like my daughter is the only child in their care. Front of house staff have been AMAZING and have helped me out a number of times always with a smile! I am able to drop my daughter off in the morning, even if she is a little sad, and i can leave confidently knowing my bubba is in the best of care.

Maria McCrann

Best day care ever. Always friendly and supportive. My kids love coming here and I know they are in good hands. Also so helpful with parents.

Explore nearby G8 Education centres

Looking for other great childcare, kindergarten or preschool options? Discover more G8 Education centres near you!

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.