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Great Beginnings Epping

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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 Epping

Great Beginnings Epping offers long day care and Kindergarten for children aged 6 weeks to school age, conveniently located for families in Epping, Wallan, Donnybrook, Mickleham, Lalor, Thomastown, Mill Park and Wollert in Melbourne.

Spacious outdoor environments

Our shade outdoor play areas include sandpits, cubby houses, garden beds and established trees, providing opportunities for exploration, nature play and active movement.

Inspiring indoor spaces

Bright, spacious rooms are equipped with natural materials and open-ended resources, along with a movable interactive whiteboard and a dedicated nursery sleep room designed for rest and comfort.

Experienced team of educators

Our educators and Bachelor-qualified Early Childhood Teachers guide children’s learning in a supportive environment.

Government-approved Kindergarten program

Our Government-approved Kindergarten program is delivered by Bachelor-qualified Early Childhood Teachers, helping children prepare for a smooth transition to school.

Individual Learning Plans for every child

Individual Learning Plans are developed for each child, reflecting their interests, strengths and developmental goals, and are reviewed regularly in partnership with families.

Additional learning experiences

Children take part in additional learning experiences included in the daily program, supporting their interests, development and engagement.

Fresh, nutritious meals prepared daily

Fresh meals are prepared daily to support children’s energy and wellbeing, catering to a range of dietary and cultural requirements.

Supporting busy families every day

Our Epping centre provides nappies, wipes and selected essentials, along with infant feeding support, while keeping families connected through regular updates and photos via our communication app.

Secure your place today

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

Meet our Centre Manager

Priya

  • Diploma of Children’s Services
  • Working towards Bachelor of Education
“Children possess incredible imagination and creativity, and as teachers, we have the privilege to foster and contribute to their positive learning dispositions and confident self-identities.”

My career in early learning began in 2006, and I joined Great Beginnings Epping in 2024. With over 20 years in the early childhood industry, including teaching in Fiji and working as an early childhood professional in Australia, I’ve learnt that children can lead their learning. As educators, we need to acknowledge and support this. Inspired by the Reggio Emilia approach, I believe children learn best through play and engagement in an inquiry-based environment. Our role is to facilitate these environments and scaffold their learning. Children possess incredible imagination and creativity, and as teachers, we have the privilege to foster and contribute to their positive learning dispositions and confident self-identities.

A dedicated early childhood setting enables children to form strong social relationships, negotiate roles, and become confident learners, providing a foundation for school readiness and community participation. That’s our goal at Great Beginnings Epping. Our experienced team is committed to delivering the best outcomes for children. We build strong relationships with families through open and honest communication, acknowledging diversity, listening to concerns, and valuing their opinions.

We look forward to welcoming you to Great Beginnings Epping early learning centre.

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Our innovative early learning programs

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

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.

Sustainability

Children develop respect for the environment through gardening, recycling and nature-based learning. Educators also introduce the interconnected aspects of sustainability, including environmental, social and economic, through concepts like fairness, sharing and community.

Community engagement

We often have visits from local community services in Epping to help familiarise the children with their local community, and we go out on adventures in our local area to teach the children about their local environment.

Independence and life skills

Children develop autonomy, interdependence, resilience and a sense of agency through meaningful participation in everyday routines, such as preparing snack, caring for plants, and tidying shared spaces.

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.

6 weeks – 2 years

Nursery

6 weeks – 2 years

Nursery

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.

Children in this age group experience:

  • Responsive care and nurturing relationships that support emotional security and attachment
  • Sensory exploration through textures, sounds, music and movement
  • Early communication development through songs, stories, gestures and conversations
  • Tummy time and movement experiences that support physical development

2 – 3 years

Toddler

2 – 3 years

Toddler

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

Children in this age group experience:

  • Play-based learning experiences that encourage curiosity and problem solving
  • Language-rich environments with storytelling, songs and conversations
  • Opportunities to build independence, such as self-help skills and routines
  • Social learning experiences that help children practise sharing, cooperation and empathy

3 – 5 years

Kindergarten

3 – 5 years

Kindergarten

Our Government-approved Kindergarten program prepares children for school through engaging, play-based learning experiences that develop confidence, independence and a love of learning.

Children in this age group experience:

  • School readiness learning that builds early literacy and numeracy skills
  • Problem solving and critical thinking through play-based projects and exploration
  • Opportunities for collaboration and teamwork through group learning experiences
  • Opportunities to develop independence, responsibility and decision-making skills
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We’re all about healthy, nutritious eating

Our cook, who is also an educator with over 20 years of experience working with children, is passionate about early childhood education and nutrition. We offer a rotating seasonal menu every four weeks, providing breakfast, morning tea, lunch, afternoon tea, and a late snack, while catering to all dietary requirements, including halal.

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

$186.65/day

Toddler

2 – 4 years

$186.65/day

Kindergarten

4 – 5 years

$186.65/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(49 reviews)
Source: Google Business Profile. Reviews are correct at the time of accessing this webpage.

rafel athab

As a mother of twins, choosing the right childcare was one of the biggest decisions I had to make. I’m so thankful that we found Great Beginning Childcare. It’s truly been a second home for my children for the past five years, since they were just…. See more As a mother of twins, choosing the right childcare was one of the biggest decisions I had to make. I’m so thankful that we found Great Beginning Childcare. It’s truly been a second home for my children for the past five years, since they were just 10 months old. From the very beginning, the educators (all of them I can’t name them all) and staff have shown incredible care, patience, and love. The support we've received as a family has been amazing, and I’ve always felt confident knowing my children were in such capable and nurturing hands. Thanks to Georgia and her delicious meals, my kids still talk about how much they love the food at the center! While we’re excited for the next chapter, it’s definitely hard to say goodbye. Great Beginning Childcare has played such a huge role in our lives, and we’ll always be grateful for the warmth, love and support we’ve experienced here. I highly recommend this Centre for you guys. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts Rafel

Anthony Baricevic

This is a great, modern and clean facility in Epping. We had our son in another nearby centre but couldn’t make him excited to go in three times a week, he said the playground was boring. We enrolled him with Great Beginnings at Epping and now he…. See more This is a great, modern and clean facility in Epping. We had our son in another nearby centre but couldn’t make him excited to go in three times a week, he said the playground was boring. We enrolled him with Great Beginnings at Epping and now he keeps begging to go back again! The staff are so welcoming and all look as though they’ve had years and years experience. We spoke with one lady and she said they had a very low rotation of staff. You can see it. The kids run straight up to the room leaders to greet them when they arrive, and at the end of his day when we ask our son whether he had a good lunch, he now says “wow mummy so yummy!” Thanks so much to the caring and supportive staff at Great Beginnings for the dramatic turnaround in our son’s enjoyment of childcare 😊

Indiah Davis

Absolutely amazing centre, the staff are so attentive to all the children, I have 2 very different children and they go above and beyond to make them both so comfortable. The growth of personal development and learning my son has made since starting…. See more Absolutely amazing centre, the staff are so attentive to all the children, I have 2 very different children and they go above and beyond to make them both so comfortable. The growth of personal development and learning my son has made since starting is outstanding! Highly recommend this centre

Nae Nae

All a parent could want at the end of the day is their kids to be happy, and I can say with full confidence that my kids are just that! Since our move back in 2023 I was reluctant on how the kids would settle into the new place, trialing every…. See more All a parent could want at the end of the day is their kids to be happy, and I can say with full confidence that my kids are just that! Since our move back in 2023 I was reluctant on how the kids would settle into the new place, trialing every childcare in the area. It was a scary time at first, but we weren’t left disappointed. Enrolling my 2 kids to Great beginnings lives to its name, cause it truely was a great beginning! They are looked after by a fabulous team and come home happy every single day! I can’t thank this place enough for the wonders its done for my children and I hope everybody knows how great of a place this is!

Nikki Tran

I am amazed and astonished. Who knew a small local childcare could provide such wonderful care! My young daughter has always dreaded the idea of leaving home, and with me and my husbands busy work schedules we simply did not have the time to care…. See more I am amazed and astonished. Who knew a small local childcare could provide such wonderful care! My young daughter has always dreaded the idea of leaving home, and with me and my husbands busy work schedules we simply did not have the time to care for her during the day. Thankfully to the amazing staff here our worries faded instantly, with our daughter waiting at the door eagerly every moning to go to childcare! I’ve never seen such a turn around in my child and I am so blessed to send her to such an amazing facility. The staff are nothing but pure bliss and I can’t wait to send my youngest there too in the coming years! Love what your doing guys!

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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.

Our Family Support Team will add your child’s name to our waitlist if one of our childcare centres is currently full in your child’s age group. We will then contact you as soon as a place becomes available.

We also do monthly check-ins to review availability, and you will receive a text message confirming whether you’re still happy to remain on the waitlist each month. If you would like an update at any point, you’re welcome to reach out on our Web Chat or give us a call.

Our Family Support team can also help you find more G8 early learning centres near you, with the same offerings at the Great Beginnings centre you are interested in that have immediate availability.

It’s common for a child to experience separation anxiety when they first start child care. When you’re getting ready to start child care, you can help your child overcome anxieties by visiting the child care service together for a Stay and Play session, and easing into new routines at home.

Read more tips about how to make the transition easier for your child.

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 and spare socks.

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 and spare socks.

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.

Great Beginnings 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, Great Beginnings 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.