About Explore & Develop
Castlereagh Street
At Explore & Develop Castlereagh Street, our educational programs are guided by Australia’s National Curriculum, the Early Years Learning Framework: Belonging, Being, Becoming. We use the outcomes, principles and practices outlined in the EYLF to develop meaningful, interest based educational programs for children.
Our aim is for children to feel a sense of BELONGING to our environments, allowing them to BE active contributors to their educational programs, thus BECOMING lifelong learners. In addition to using the Early Years Learning Framework to guide our educational practices, our educators explore Early Childhood Theory and current research, and apply this to their curriculum planning. We support the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child and Early Childhood Australia’s Code of Ethics.
Owner/Operator
of Explore & Develop Castlereagh Street
Paul Ludlow
Paul Ludlow was inspired to create an environment for children and families based on what he would have personally wanted for his own children growing up. This philosophy ensures that every interaction and decision regarding the operation of the service considers not only the practical, but also what is in the best interests of all children and families. Paul’s extensive management and hospitality experience is evident in his approach with educators and families at Castlereagh Street. Paul is active in his local community, and volunteers his time at a local primary school where he was President of the Out of School Hours (OOSH) care program.
What we have seen on drop off, pick up and via Kinderloop along with the pace of her development indicates excellent care. The baking activity for ANZAC Day and crafts for Mother’s Day was special. I have nothing but praise for the professionalism and dedication of all carers I have interacted with. It was noticeable how quickly they all got to know our daughter’s personality.
I can tell the educators really care about the kids and they are so good at their jobs. I love the photo updates throughout the day. Keep them coming.
Really happy with the standard of care and education Isobel receives. The educators are lovely, very friendly and seem to have the best interests of all the children front of mind at all times.
Going back to work has been so much easier when you know that your child is being well looked after and is having fun, which you can see in the photos and the updates.Our daughter Saskia has been coming to Explore & Develop for 18 months. Given our daughter’s diagnosis of Autism she has needed special care and attention and Explore & Develop have not only accommodated her with open arms but they have actively sought ways to assist her in the integration of her learning, development and achievement of her fundamental milestones. We are eternally grateful that Explore & Develop have given her the support, love and commitment to thrive in what has been a very challenging few years. We would highly recommend the centre, its management and the day care staff who have demonstrated a concerted and tireless effort in offering Saskia every opportunity to be a part of the wonderful and unique learnings on offer there.
We wanted to thank you for your assistance and care of Emelia over the past 18 months.
As first time parents, it was a very difficult decision in choosing a centre to take care of our baby girl. Since our first day, your team has always created a caring and loving environment for Emelia to grow and develop. Although she may be young, she has always enjoyed the experiences she’s had during her time there.
We wish you and your team all the very best for the future and success of Explore & Develop.
Learning Environments
Explore & Develop Castlereagh Street
Birth – 2 years
Our aim is to provide a clean, nurturing and stimulating environment for our infants where our focus is on relationships, to ensure each child feels safe, secure and supported. We have two beautifully designed rooms, so that the younger babies and the older babies have their own spaces to explore. Age-appropriate resources, materials and equipment are provided to encourage children to explore and investigate using all their senses.
A private breastfeeding area is also provided and our fully inclusive fee for this age group is $168 per day.
2 – 3 years
Our two Toddler rooms deliver the toddlers their own spaces to explore, discover, create and imagine through play-based learning. The environment and program is vibrant and flexible and responsive to the interests and abilities of each child and includes puzzles, literacy and numeracy activities, construction activities, creative arts, music and pretend play set-ups.
Our fully inclusive fee for this age group is $163 per day.
3 – 5 years
Our Preschool room continues to provide a play-based developmentally appropriate program where children are learning important knowledge, skills and attitudes that will not only prepare them for school but for lifelong learning. Our ‘Transition to School’ program delivered by early childhood teachers focuses not only on the social, emotional and academic skills for children but also ensures children have the confidence and independence necessary to make a smooth transition to school.
Our fully inclusive fee for this age group is $158 per day.
Outdoor environment
We have created a number of varied play spaces that are natural and diverse, and include a variety of plants and shrubs. Each space not only provides opportunities for children to release energy and engage in physical activity, but also to explore, problem- solve and engage in creative expression. Some features for our infants and toddlers space include a glass-covered atrium where children can experience our sandpit, nature trail, teepee, timber boardwalk and soft ,open space for tumble and ball play.
Our toddlers and preschool children have their own, separate play space that caters for their increasing skill level. Some experiences in this area include a dedicated art space with views to the city for inspiration and to encourage creativity. Other spaces include a large sandpit, nature trail with stone steppers, timber boardwalks, music area and climbing experiences. There is also an open, soft space for running and ball games.
Gallery
Explore & Develop Castlereagh Street
Contact us
Explore & Develop Castlereagh Street