Delivering smiles and making moments special, one bloom at a time.
At Benowa Early Learning Centre, we believe that childhood is a precious and sacred time, full of wonder, curiosity, and discovery. Our centre is committed to providing a nurturing and enriching environment where children can grow, learn, and thrive. Our dedicated team of educators are passionate about inspiring young minds and fostering a sense of community and belonging among our children, families, and staff.
Inspired Play and Learning Spaces
Our centre is designed to inspire children's natural curiosity and creativity, with beautifully landscaped outdoor play areas, natural wooden resources, and custom-designed play equipment. Our home-grown edible veggie and herb garden provides a hands-on opportunity for children to connect with nature and learn about sustainability. Our dedicated team of educators work closely with children to develop a child-led curriculum, using the environment as a "third teacher" to facilitate learning and exploration.
Healthy, Organic Food
At Benowa Early Learning Centre, we believe that healthy, nutritious food is essential for optimal growth and development. Our on-site kitchen prepares daily meals using seasonal, locally sourced produce, designed and implemented by our qualified nutritionist. Our menus are tailored to meet the individual needs of each child, and we offer a variety of options for children with dietary requirements.
Caring, Dedicated Team
Our exceptional team of educators have a genuine love for children and have many years of experience in early childhood education. They are passionate about providing individualized care and attention to each child, and work closely with parents to ensure a smooth and successful transition. Their dedication to creating a sense of belonging and community is evident in every aspect of our centre's operations.
Child-Led Curriculum
We believe that children learn best when they are given the freedom to explore and discover at their own pace. Our child-led curriculum is designed to foster curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking, using the environment as a means of facilitating learning and exploration. Our educators work closely with children to develop individualized plans, tailored to each child's unique needs and interests.
Our Services
At Benowa Early Learning Centre, we offer a range of services designed to support the needs of our children and families. These include:
- Extra-Curricular Activities: Our centre offers a wide range of regular activities, including gymnastics, tumble tots, sustainable gardening workshops, mindful yoga classes, music lessons, and visits from our local elder, Uncle Allen, who helps us embed the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture.
- Enrolments: We welcome children from 6 weeks to 5 years old, and offer a range of options for families, including part-time and full-time care.
- Nutrition: Our centre provides healthy, nutritious meals and snacks, designed and implemented by our qualified nutritionist.
- Vacation Care: We offer a range of fun and engaging activities during school holidays, designed to keep children active, curious, and happy.
Our Philosophy
At Benowa Early Learning Centre, we believe that every child is unique and special, with their own interests, strengths, and needs. Our philosophy is built on the principles of inspiring curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking, while fostering a sense of belonging and community. We recognize that children need a loving, stimulating, and non-threatening environment that nurtures and challenges each individual, and we strive to provide just that.
Centre Overview
Benowa Early Learning Centre (BELC) has received a range of reviews from parents who have enrolled their children in the centre. While some parents have had extremely positive experiences, others have had concerns with the centre's management and facilities.
Facilities and Staff
Many parents have praised the centre's warm and caring staff, who have made them feel welcome and supported. The centre's facilities have also received praise, with owners of the centre's food, which is said to be healthy and delicious. The centre's management team has also been commended for being supportive and communicative.
Shortfalls
However, some parents have expressed concerns with the centre's facilities, including overcrowding and lack of attention to detail. One parent reported that their child's area was shared with older children from the school next door, leading to safety concerns. Another parent mentioned that the centre's staff were not responsive to their concerns, and that their child was forced to stay inside all day without a spare hat.
Recommendations
Many parents have highly recommended BELC, praising the centre's staff, facilities, and programs. One parent even mentioned that their child was sad to leave the centre when they started school. However, a few parents have warned that the centre may not be suitable for all families, particularly those looking for a centre with low staff turnover and attention to detail.
