We hold high expectations for every child, recognising their uniqueness, strengths, and capabilities. Through play-based learning, we foster wellbeing, inclusion, respect, and resilience, empowering children to reach their full potential.

We provide a safe, nurturing environment where every child is valued and respected, regardless of background. Our educators build meaningful connections with families, celebrating diverse perspectives and creating enriching, inclusive experiences.

By fostering collaboration and empathy, we cultivate a strong community where children develop a lifelong love of learning, emotional intelligence, and confidence to thrive.

We continuously evaluate the National Quality Standards’ Seven Quality Areas to enhance the delivery of exceptional education with a focus on:

1. Education program and practice.
2. Children’s health and safety.
3. Physical environment.  
4. Staffing arrangements.
5. Relationships with children.
6. Collaborative partnerships with families and communities.  
7. Leadership and service management.

We see all children as individuals and competent learners, actively shaping their own educational journey. Our Philosophy is displayed in each room and parents are invited to review and contribute to our policies.

Our expert educators are integral to creating a supportive learning environment and at all times uphold children’s rights, perspectives, and safety. We also understand that effective collaboration is integral to achieving the best outcomes for our children and families.

Partnership with Parents
Student portfolios provide a positive connection between home and school, and we also welcome parents and families to volunteer at the ELC to further enhance this important link. Parents are also encouraged to contribute to their child’s portfolio throughout the year.

Inclusive & Supportive Practices
We believe every child is unique and thrives when educators, families, and the community work together to ensure access, inclusion, and participation.

Wellbeing & Professional Growth
The School prioritises the safety and wellbeing of educators, fostering a culture of care, respect, and continuous learning to support both staff and children.

Reflective & Evolving Programs
Guided by our philosophy, we embrace continuous improvement, self-review, and reflection to enhance policies, practices, and outcomes.

Cultural Respect & Connection
Educators celebrate diversity, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, integrating respect for land, water, and community into our teaching.

Our ELC teaching practice and learning model are based on the foundations and principles outlined in the Victorian Early Years Learning and Development Framework and the National Early Years Framework (Belonging, Being & Becoming).

• These frameworks work in unison with our play-based learning and teaching processes to develop high quality educational programs.
• We are continually involved in quality improvement and seek to involve our students, families and staff in this process.

Five key outcomes from within these frameworks provide the basis of our planning and implementation of our learning and teaching process:

• Outcome 1: Children have a strong sense of identity.
• Outcome 2: Children are connected with and contribute to their world.
• Outcome 3: Children have a strong sense of wellbeing.
• Outcome 4: Children are confident and involved learners.
• Outcome 5: Children are effective communicators.

As part of an ELC – Year 12 school, our students have access to the extensive facilities and resources across Mentone Grammar to complement our programs, as well as mentoring and support from senior students. Music, library, PE, plus Mandarin and swimming (both Pre-Prep), together with visiting performers, incursions and excursions further enhance the learning and teaching opportunities for our students. 

Skills and attitudes developed in these very early childhood years form the basis for lifelong learning. Key competencies of independence, initiative, motivation, perseverance, confidence, cooperation, and a positive self-image are nurtured throughout our programs.

Active Learning & Exploration
Children grow as individuals and team members through creative free-play, structured activities, and social interactions, both indoors and outdoors.

Nature-Based Learning
Our emerging Bush/Nature program, held at Keysborough, Shoreham, and the local beach, supports children’s development by matching their abilities and interests.

Holistic Education
A play-based curriculum fosters skills in language, literacy, mathematics, science, technology, the arts, and environmental awareness, encouraging curiosity and lifelong learning.

Commitment to Sustainability
The Centre upholds principles of global sustainability, embedding respect for the environment across our learning experiences. We welcome parents who have a passion in this area to get involved with our sustainability and recycling programs.

We empower children as global citizens by promoting a strong, positive image of children, advocating for their rights, fostering their potential, and encouraging responsibility and resilience.

Inclusive & Stimulating Learning Environment
Our play-based approach values each child’s individuality, interests, and learning styles, embracing diversity in gender, ability, and culture. We create engaging environments that challenge and inspire thinking.

Collaborative & Reflective Practices
We encourage active participation from parents, children, and staff, fostering relationships built on communication, collaboration, trust, and shared learning. Reflection and research guide our continuous improvement and practice.

Meaningful & Engaging Learning Experiences
Through small and large group activities, we present complex cognitive challenges, nurturing persistence, motivation, and problem-solving skills. Learning is documented to make progress visible and ensure children’s voices are heard and valued.