The Guardian Childcare & Education Collins Street in Melbourne typifies contemporary early learning “sanctuaries” in city CBDs.
The centre is hidden within a commercial building and surprises many first-time visitors.
Its large purpose-built spaces include expansive open-plan learning environments that allow children to move freely between experiences.
Every learning studio has direct access to its own outdoor play space and an open kitchen on Level 9 encourages children to engage in conversations about food, nutrition and daily routines.
There is growing interest in these types of centres as the post-COVID workforce returns to offices and more young families choose apartment living in the inner city.
Collins St Assistant Centre Manager and Educational Leader Archa Mohanachandran Sheela Kumari believes the physical environment is matched by an equally supportive culture.
“One of the things I love most about our centre is the positive and supportive team culture,” she said.
“The educators work closely together, share ideas and genuinely care about each other and the children in our care. It is a centre where children feel safe, happy and confident to learn and grow each day.”
While the centre interior provides a contrast from the busy metropolis outside, the team also embraces the location to create special experiences.
This includes “city adventures” like visits to the National Gallery of Victoria (NGV) and Melbourne’s City Library.
Centre Manager Ameneh Pirooz says the team has created a centre where children feel they belong from their very first day.
Families are invited to attend flexible “Stay and Play” sessions before enrolling, giving children time to become familiar with the environment while parents build confidence in the team.
Centre leaders personally guide every orientation, introducing families to educators and tailoring the settling process to each child’s individual needs before following up after enrolment to ensure the transition has been successful.
“My approach with children and families is built on respect, trust and strong partnerships,” Ameneh said.
“I believe every child is capable and unique, and I support their learning by following their interests and encouraging their independence,” she said.
Baby Ambassador Minsathi Meegahapola shares the same philosophy, particularly when supporting families through those emotional first days in care.
“My approach with children is calm, respectful and responsive. I focus on building trusting relationships where each child feels safe, valued and supported to learn at their own pace,” she said.
“(You need to) allow time for a gradual and gentle settling-in process. Every child adjusts differently, so it’s important to be patient and trust that building secure relationships with educators takes time.”
More information or to book a tour click here.
