Young girl in a green shirt smiling and reaching for bubbles outdoors, with a child in the background and trees around.

Welcome to Early Learning at the Y

Nurturing children to become independent, lifelong learners.

Why choose the Y Early Learning?

We believe that each child is unique, capable and curious, with inbuilt strengths and tremendous potential to be the master of their learning. With over 25 years of experience operating children’s programs in Whittlesea, the Y is a community not-for-profit organisation aiming to empower young people. We work together to create an environment where children, educators, families and the community have ownership and a sense of belonging.

Supporting children from nursery to kindergarten

Nursery (6 weeks to 18 months)

We educate and care for nursery-aged children throughout the day, with dedicated indoor and outdoor learning spaces, plus safe sleeping areas for rest.

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Young child wearing a green shirt stirring a pot with a yellow spoon outdoors, standing next to a wooden table.

Toddlers (2 to 3 years)

Our early learning program integrated within long day care helps toddlers develop emotional, physical and cognitive skills through fun play-based activities.

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A young boy in a blue shirt smiling at the camera while sitting at a table, with another child blurred in the foreground.

Kindergarten (3 years)

Our three year old integrated and sessional kindergarten programs are led by Bachelor-qualified Early Childhood Teachers and help young minds flourish.

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Two young children in green shirts sit outside, looking through colorful toy telescopes, appearing to play and explore together.

Kindergarten (4 years)

Led by Bachelor-qualified Early Childhood Teachers, our integrated and sessional kindergarten programs help four-year-olds build essential skills for school and life.

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Our Programs

At the Y, learning opportunities are endless! We offer a range of educational and play-based programs guided by the National Quality Framework. Our highly experienced educators develop indoor and outdoor learning experiences that enhance children’s strengths, interests and abilities. We provide children with opportunities to discover, learn and investigate through uninterrupted play using natural and open-ended materials.

Safeguarding Children

Australian Ys are committed to providing opportunities for all children and young people to grow in body, mind and spirit. We recognise that all children and young people have the right to develop and reach their potential in caring, nurturing and safe environments. As an accredited Child Safe Organisation, we have an unwavering focus and commitment to safeguarding children in everything we do.

Two young children wearing green shirts work together at a play kitchen, surrounded by play food and jars, in a classroom setting.

A smiling woman interacts with a young boy wearing a red shirt at a table, engaging in an educational or creative activity, with art supplies and a potted plant nearby.

Teacher and three young children sitting on the floor reading a large illustrated book together in a colorful classroom setting.

A teacher and two children explore balance using a wooden scale outdoors, comparing pinecones and rocks on a sunny day.

A group of children wearing blue vests sit together in a brightly lit indoor recreational center, smiling and looking towards the camera.

Young boy smiling at the camera in a playroom, with another child blurred in the foreground.

An adult woman sits outdoors on grass with two young toddlers in green shirts, in front of a modern building, possibly at a daycare or preschool.

Smiling toddler in a red shirt sits on the floor with musical instruments, inside a classroom with tables and chairs in the background.

Enquire about Early Learning

Nurturing children to become independent, lifelong learners.

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