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Great Beginnings Hornsby

Places available

Daily fees before CCS

Nursery $183.25
Toddler $180.55
Preschool $179.40
Calculate your out-of-pocket cost

Enrolment availability

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

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  • Friday

Childcare and Preschool in Hornsby, NSW

Great Beginnings Hornsby offers long day care and Preschool for children aged 6 weeks to school age, conveniently located for families in Hornsby, Hornsby Heights, Waitara, Asquith, Wahroonga and Normanhurst in Sydney.

Construction area and all-weather outdoor play

Children have plenty to explore outdoors, with cubby houses, slides, sandpits, climbing equipment and all-weather play areas. Construction zones and a tinkering area with real tools give children hands-on ways to build, test ideas and work with different materials.

Literacy, maths, art and music indoors

Our indoor spaces are set up for a mix of literacy, maths, art, music and everyday play. Children can spend time with creative materials, join group experiences, explore early concepts and follow ideas that grow through the day.

Research-informed educator team

Our educators continue to build their knowledge and use research-informed practice in the program. This helps the team plan thoughtful learning experiences and respond to what children are interested in, practising and ready to try next.

Government-approved Preschool

Our NSW Government-approved Preschool is delivered by qualified Early Childhood Teachers. Children take part in play, group learning, routines and friendships that help them become more familiar with the move 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.

Bush Kinder, yoga, music and sport

Bush Kinder, yoga, music and sporting activities are included in the program. These experiences give children time outdoors, movement, music, stretching and different ways to join in during the week.

Fresh, nutritious meals prepared daily

Our in-house chef prepares breakfast, morning tea, lunch, afternoon tea and a late snack each day. Meals are planned to offer variety across the day, with allergies, dietary requirements, preferences and cultural needs catered for.

Family communication and daily support

Nappies, wipes and selected essentials are provided to help make daily routines easier, with infant feeding support available where needed. Families stay connected through educator conversations and updates shared in our communication app, including photos, routines and moments from the day.

Secure your place today

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

Our innovative early learning programs

At our early learning centre in Hornsby, 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 Hornsby 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

Educator in black uniform playing with a toddler at a wooden toy car park with miniature cars

6 weeks – 2 years

Nursery

Nursery

Educator in black uniform playing with a toddler at a wooden toy car park with miniature cars
6 weeks – 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.

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
Children sitting on grass together completing a colourful wooden number puzzle from 1 to 20

2 – 3 years

Toddlers

Toddlers

Children sitting on grass together completing a colourful wooden number puzzle from 1 to 20
2 – 3 years

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
Child reaching into a clear tub of coloured pencils held by an educator at a table

3 – 5 years

Preschool

Preschool

Child reaching into a clear tub of coloured pencils held by an educator at a table
3 – 5 years

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

Children in this age group will build:

  • Early literacy and numeracy skills through play-based activities, stories, songs and everyday routines
  • Problem solving and critical thinking through play-based projects and exploration
  • Collaboration and teamwork through group learning experiences
  • Self-help skills that support school routines, such as opening lunchboxes, looking after belongings and getting dressed independently

What a typical day looks like for your child

Smiling educator in a black jacket greeting a parent holding a toddler at a centre entrance

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
Children using tongs to serve watermelon, orange and cucumber from a platter at a shared table

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
Educator gently cradling a baby in a pink outfit in a childcare reading corner

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
Three young children in sun hats playing together at an outdoor timber water play table in a natural playground

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
Mother breastfeeding her baby while seated in a houndstooth armchair beside a window

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
Smiling educator in a wide-brimmed hat crouching to greet a young child in a blue bucket hat on a playground

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

$183.25/day

Toddler

2 – 4 years

$180.55/day

Preschool

4 – 5 years

$179.40/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 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

Preschool/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(25 reviews)
Source: Google Business Profile. Reviews are correct at the time of accessing this webpage.

Bianca Reid

My son started at Great Beginnings Hornsby earlier this year. As a former Educator at other centres on the North Shore I knew what I wanted in a childcare and toured multiple around Hornsby. Great Beginnings stood out to us in the most positive…. See more My son started at Great Beginnings Hornsby earlier this year. As a former Educator at other centres on the North Shore I knew what I wanted in a childcare and toured multiple around Hornsby. Great Beginnings stood out to us in the most positive way. The outdoor area is undercover meaning the children can play all year round- it is also very spacious and the nursery area is separated. My son had separation issues with me (and so did I) which is why we put him into Daycare to overcome that. The educators, Director and Chef all greet him by name when they see him in the morning with a big smile and open arms and have done a fantastic job of settling him into childcare. We are always greeted with smiles and he has come so far with his confidence. At the end of his day the Educators are able to recall the highlights of his day (not just “he had a good day”) which means a lot to know what he is showing interest in and are also very supportive of any needs my son has- often giving great advice. My son’s language was a little bit delayed when starting and now when he comes home he is able to say his teachers names and shows us what he has learned such as body parts and naming them. The learning program every week is very interest focused and you can see the Educators really care for the children. Other highlights are the menu- the meals are great and snacks are nutritious with a lot of variety. The director Maigen is great- she has been very reassuring during my son’s time at daycare. We truly appreciate the dedicated care from all of the Educators and staff at Hornsby Great Beginnings and recommend anyone to go there.

Sarah A

Such a hidden gem! Excellent and friendly educators, Room Leads and Centre Lead, impressive curriculum and activities, huge covered outdoor play area with lovely tree views, spacious and bright classrooms and great range of meals and substantial…. See more Such a hidden gem! Excellent and friendly educators, Room Leads and Centre Lead, impressive curriculum and activities, huge covered outdoor play area with lovely tree views, spacious and bright classrooms and great range of meals and substantial snacks. Kids settled quickly into toddlers and pre-school and love it. Seeing their progress and confidence grow due to the care all the educators provide over the last year has been heart warming.

Nicole Shoobert

We absolutely love Great Beginnings. The director is so knowledgeable, supportive, and easy to talk to, and she really goes above and beyond to make sure families feel supported and informed. The staff are phenomenal – caring, dedicated, and…. See more We absolutely love Great Beginnings. The director is so knowledgeable, supportive, and easy to talk to, and she really goes above and beyond to make sure families feel supported and informed. The staff are phenomenal – caring, dedicated, and genuinely invested in the kids. Our child is always keen to attend and comes home happy every day. The environment is warm and welcoming, communication is great, and it’s clear the whole team truly cares. We feel very lucky to be part of such a wonderful daycare and would highly recommend it to other families.

Erin Nicholson

Genuinely very happy with Great Beginnings Hornsby. I find the management to be very approachable and responsive. They are hands on and connected with the children and know each child by name. My children are in the Toddler room and their room…. See more Genuinely very happy with Great Beginnings Hornsby. I find the management to be very approachable and responsive. They are hands on and connected with the children and know each child by name. My children are in the Toddler room and their room educators are amazing. They have a genuine care and love for little people and make my kids feel safe and secure. The educators always take the time to connect and update me as a parent on how the day went. My kids talk about the educators after daycare and on the weekends, they have a great connection.

Emily Brown

All my children have attended this Centre, my oldest started a few months after it opened. We have seen three management changes and the most recent who has now been there a year and a half has been the most positive change for the centre. My…. See more All my children have attended this Centre, my oldest started a few months after it opened. We have seen three management changes and the most recent who has now been there a year and a half has been the most positive change for the centre. My children have always been happy and the staff have always had my children’s best interests at heart and they have all always been happy and enjoyed their days there. The staffing is consistent with all the different team members knowing all the children in all the rooms which makes it a welcoming place. There is lots of space and different activities for the children to play with and a fantastic area outdoors. My youngest is enjoying his first few weeks there now and has settled in very quickly with lots of love and care from the staff. Would always recommend the centre to anyone needing a change from another centre or wanting to give their child a great start to their childcare experience!

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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.

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 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.