Nurturing Curiosity and Belonging
At St. Catherine’s Early Education Centre, we foster a safe, inclusive, and joyful learning environment where children thrive through play-based, inquiry-led learning. We prioritise respect, cultural safety, and community partnerships, empowering children to grow with curiosity, resilience, and joy.
Our Vision: A Safe and Joyful Learning Environment
At St. Catherine’s Early Education Centre, our vision is to create a safe and joyful learning environment where every child feels a strong sense of belonging. This is achieved through reciprocal relationships built on mutual respect and trust.
Empowering Children to Thrive
We focus on fostering curiosity, creativity, and independence through play-based and inquiry-led learning, reflective practice, and collaboration with our community. We create a space where children are respected as capable individuals and empowered to thrive with resilience, curiosity, and joy.
Accessible and Tailored Learning
We are committed to providing accessible and affordable early learning opportunities tailored to each unique child. Every child’s needs and potential are at the heart of our approach.
Acknowledging the Wurundjeri People
We respectfully acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we work, play, and learn—the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin Nation. At St. Catherine’s, we are committed to deepening children’s understanding of the world’s oldest living culture while advancing reconciliation for future generations. By embedding Indigenous perspectives into our daily practices and environment, we foster cultural education rooted in respect, understanding, and trust.
Fostering Inclusion
Guided by the Child Safe Standards, our equitable practice prioritises cultural safety and inclusion for all children, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children, children from diverse backgrounds, and children of all abilities and needs. As proud members of the North Melbourne community, we welcome and celebrate the rich diversity of the families we serve and take pride in creating an inclusive environment where everyone feels valued and respected. Meaningful, authentic relationships lie at the heart of our work, whether with colleagues, children, families, or the wider community. Through these strong partnerships, we nurture a sense of belonging that helps children thrive in an atmosphere of love and care.
Inspiring Curiosity and Resilience
Our learning environment is designed to spark intrinsic motivation, curiosity, and a lifelong love of learning. We believe that education begins at birth and that the early years play a pivotal role in shaping a child’s future. We create opportunities for exploration, discovery, and treasured childhood memories. Through intentional, play-based, and child-led curriculums, we encourage children to embrace challenges, take thoughtful risks, and build resilience. We value providing opportunities for children to connect with nature in our urban setting, nurturing a sense of care and respect for the land, and embracing our shared responsibility to a sustainable future. At St. Catherine’s, we see every moment as an opportunity to nurture kindness, confidence, and a genuine joy for learning — empowering children to grow and flourish in their own unique ways.
Explore Our Centre with a Virtual Tour
Take a virtual tour of St. Catherine’s Early Education Centre to explore our vibrant learning spaces and facilities, helping you feel confident and informed before visiting in person.