Childcare and kindergarten in Ashwood, designed for joyful learning.
Explorers Early Learning offers early education and care for children aged 6 weeks to school age in our Ashwood childcare centre. Guided by our Learning for Life curriculum and Framework of Joy, children are supported to explore and grow at their own pace. At the centre, children come together in a shared Piazza and spend time in landscaped outdoor areas designed for play and exploration. Inspired by Reggio Emilia principles, our Ashwood centre is a calm, connected space where children feel confident to engage.
What you'll find here
Why families choose Explorers Ashwood.
Reggio Emilia inspired
Our Learning for Life curriculum is child-led and play-based, shaped around what each child is curious about right now.
Integrated kindergarten
Three- and four-year-old kinder runs on-site, led by qualified Kindergarten Teachers. No separate drop-off, no extra fees.
Fresh food, every day
Our chefs prepare a nutritionist-designed menu in-house, using fresh local produce. Allergies and cultural needs catered for.
Indoor / outdoor flow
Children choose where they learn: open verandas, gardens, and dedicated outdoor classrooms are part of every day.
Family Hub
Accept offers, reconfirm your waitlist, and message the team, from your phone, whenever it suits you.
Programs
Programs for every stage of early learning.
From your baby's first days to the year before school, every classroom runs our Learning for Life curriculum: child-led, play-based, and grounded in the Early Years Learning Framework.
Choosing the right childcare is one of the most important decisions a family can make. At Explorers, child safety and wellbeing are embedded into every part of our practice, from secure entry systems and supervision procedures to the respectful, trusting relationships we build with every child. Our educators are trained in First Aid, CPR, asthma and anaphylaxis management, and our safety practices are supported by clear policies, regular risk assessments and a strong culture of care. Most importantly, we create environments where children feel emotionally safe, deeply supported and genuinely known.
At Explorers Ashwood, learning extends beyond the classroom. Children may take part in Bush Kinder, local excursions, incursions, music, movement, visual arts and community experiences that help them connect with the world around them.
“Centre director Alex, Diana and the team have been amazing. Always warm and welcoming. They made us feel at ease from the moment we walked in.
Educators are enthusiastic, gentle and attentive. Little one is happy and thriving!
Very impressed with this centre.”
“Highly recommend explorers Ashwood. The directors and room educators are absolutely wonderful and so caring. Everyone at the centre knows my son and he is so happy there. He loves attending and gets so much care and attention. There is a real community feel about this centre too that is fantastic. The chef and menu for the kids is incredible also!”
“A delightful and dedicated team at explorers Ashwood. My son felt immediately at home with the educators and it’s quite evident why, care is at the heart of everything they do here. Highly recommend.”
“Both of our kids (3.5 and almost 2) attend Early Learning Explorer Ashwood and we’re extremely happy with the centre. The educators and staff are caring, professional, and create such a positive environment. The curriculum and daily activities are engaging, the food is healthy, and the communication through the app keeps us updated on everything. Our children are in the Wattles and Pobblebonks rooms and the educators there have been fantastic — we couldn’t ask for better care and support.”
“We have been absolutely thrilled with our experience at Explorers Ashwood. The educators are incredible—genuinely passionate about what they do and truly dedicated to each child’s growth and well-being. They have a way of making learning engaging and exciting, turning everyday moments into opportunities for exploration and discovery.
What sets this centre apart is its wonderful approach to community engagement and learning. We thoroughly enjoy hearing about our son’s term-long projects and love how his teachers organise a showcase of these for parents and carers at the end of each term. Finally, the integration of high quality extracurricular activities into the centre is outstanding. The music and sports programs are fantastic, giving the children a well-rounded experience that goes beyond the classroom. It’s heartwarming to see how much our son enjoys participating in these activities, and it’s clear they contribute to his overall development.
We couldn't ask for a better environment for my son’s early education. The centre is nurturing, dynamic, and a place where children truly thrive.”
Use our Child Care Subsidy calculator to estimate your out-of-pocket childcare costs and understand how much support your family may be eligible to receive.
Can't find what you're after? Our Family Support Team is happy to help, give us a call or browse all FAQs.
How do I enrol my child at Explorers Ashwood?
The easiest way to start is to book a tour at our Ashwood daycare centre. Our team is here to walk you through the enrolment process during your visit. Alternatively, you can submit an enquiry online or contact us directly to get started.
Is there a waitlist and how does it work?
At the Ashwood childcare centre, places can fill quickly, so a waitlist may apply to nursery and kindergarten programs. We encourage parents to register their interest, which will allow our team to update you on availability and next steps. You may also contact us directly for more details about current wait times and enrolment options.
Where is the centre located?
You’ll find Explorers Ashwood at 205 High Street Road – conveniently located near local parks and schools, with easy access for families in Ashwood and surrounding suburbs.
Is there onsite or off-street parking for pickups and drop-offs?
Yes, we offer onsite parking to make morning and afternoon transitions easier for families.
How can you get there by public transport?
Explorers Ashwood is well-served by local bus routes and is just a few minutes’ drive from Jordanville and Holmesglen train stations.
How does Explorers Ashwood integrate sustainability into its indoor and outdoor learning environments?
From composting and gardening to using natural materials in play, sustainability is woven into our daily learning experiences to build lifelong environmental awareness.
What Child Care Subsidy (CCS) am I entitled to?
The Child Care Subsidy is means-tested and based on your family’s income and activity level. It can help make the cost of childcare more affordable, including programs delivered within long day care. To get a clearer picture of your eligibility, use the Services Australia CCS calculator or Explorers’ Child Care Subsidy (CCS) Calculator. Our team can talk through your options and how CCS may be used with funded kindergarten.
Our educators are diploma- and degree-qualified with deep experience in early childhood education. They’re chosen for their warmth, knowledge, and passion for guiding young learners.
How does Explorers Ashwood accommodate children with dietary restrictions or allergies?
We work closely with families to tailor meals to each child’s needs. Our in-house chef provides safe, nutritious options for children with allergies or dietary preferences.
In what ways are families encouraged to participate in their child's learning journey at Explorers Ashwood?
We welcome and encourage family involvement through regular events, communication updates, and opportunities to engage in centre activities and learning experiences.
What measures are in place to ensure the safety and well-being of children, especially during outdoor activities?
Our outdoor environments are safe, secure, and age-appropriate, with qualified educators supervising at all times. Safety protocols and child wellbeing are embedded into our daily operations.
Do you offer casual and part-time bookings?
At our Ashwood daycare, booking options can vary depending on availability. Many families attend part-time, and extra days may be offered when spots open up. Please contact us and our team can talk you through current options and help find a routine that fits your week.
How are the learning spaces set up at the Ashwood childcare centre?
Each space at our Ashwood centre is thoughtfully arranged to invite children to explore, create and ask questions. The shared Piazza brings children together for project work, while rooms and outdoor areas offer different materials for drawing, building and imaginative play. Educators regularly update these spaces based on children’s interests, so experiences stay engaging and connected to what your child is curious about.
Booking a tour
What to expect when you visit.
30 minutes, in person, with the Centre Director. Bring your child if you can, they often tell us more than we can.
1
Pick a time
Tours run during the day in 30-minute slots so you can see the classrooms in flow, not staged.
2
Walk the centre with us
The Centre Director shows you each classroom, talks through routines, and answers your questions.
3
Register your interest
If it feels right, we'll save your details and walk you through the waitlist. No commitment.
Inside the centre
A walk through Explorers Ashwood.
The classrooms, gardens, and spaces your child will get to know.
Ready when you are
Come and see Explorers Ashwood for yourself.
Pick a tour time that fits: mornings, afternoons, or after work. We'll send you a calendar invite and a private Family Hub link, no password needed.
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