Take a short video walk-through of the classrooms, outdoor spaces, and daily rhythm, then book an in-person tour when you're ready.
About this centre
Childcare and kindergarten in Surrey Hills, designed for joyful learning.
Nestled in leafy Surrey Hills, towards the Wattle Park end of Elgar Road, Explorers Early Learning Surrey Hills – Elgar Road offers long day care and funded kindergarten in a warm, purpose-built setting for children aged 6 weeks to school age.
Here, children feel safe. Families feel welcomed. Learning grows through curiosity, connection and joy.
Guided by our Learning for Life curriculum and inspired by the Reggio Emilia approach, our early learning centre in Surrey Hills nurtures confidence, creativity and belonging through meaningful, play-based learning.
With thoughtfully designed indoor spaces, engaging outdoor play areas, a central Piazza, fresh meals prepared daily and opportunities for Bush Kinder and Explorers Somerville excursions, children have space to explore, imagine and grow in ways that feel calm, connected and full of possibility.
Whether you’re looking for childcare, a nurturing babies program, a supportive toddler program, or funded kindergarten within long day care in Surrey Hills, our team is here to support your family every step of the way.
What you'll find here
Why families choose Explorers Surrey Hills.
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 Surrey Hills, 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.
What Explorers Surrey Hills Elgar Road families say.
4.6 out of 5from 42 Google reviews
Rated 5 out of 5
“I’m very happy with Elgar Road Explorers Early Learning Centre. The educators are so caring, kind and patient with the children.You can really see that they love what they do, and that makes such a big difference.
The centre is always clean, organised and welcoming.The communication is also great they always keep us updated about activities and progress.
I truly appreciate the effort they put into creating a fun and educational environment. I highly recommend Elgar Road Explorers to any family looking for a supportive and nurturing early learning centre. 💛”
“Nadia the Centre Director has made the centre feel like a real community, the educators generally really care about the children, it doesn’t feel like your dropping your child off to someone who is just performing tasks to get the job done. A particular shout out to Alisa, she has eased many a difficult drop off with my toddler, our mornings would be much harder without her.”
“Our Son recently started at Explorers in Surrey Hills Elgar Rd and both my husband and I have been amazed at the quality of the care and attention he receives from the staff, the brand new facilities and the communication.
This was his first real experience being left at childcare and knowing that he was being well looked after made this process so much easier for all of us.
I love the daily updates we receive and the weekly newsletter because I can see my son exploring and discovering but also interacting with staff and other children.
I would not hesitate to recommend EEL Surrey Hills Elgar Road, thanks Fabi and team!”
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.
Where is the centre located?
Our Surrey Hills Elgar Road early learning centre is located towards the Wattle Park end. With a peaceful setting and easy access for local families, it’s a place where your child is sure to feel right at home.
Is there onsite or off-street parking for pickups and drop-offs?
Yes, we offer both onsite and off-street parking to make drop-offs and pickups convenient for families.
How can you get there by public transport?
We’re easily accessible via the 766 and 903 bus routes, and just a short distance from Box Hill and Mont Albert train stations.
What ages do you cater for?
Explorers Surrey Hills Elgar Road provides early education and care for children aged 6 weeks to school age, including babies, toddlers and funded 3 and 4-year-old kindergarten.
Do you offer funded kindergarten?
Yes. Explorers Surrey Hills Elgar Road offers funded 3 and 4-year-old kindergarten within long day care. Our kindergarten programs are delivered by qualified Early Childhood Teachers and supported by our broader Learning for Life curriculum.
What Child Care Subsidy am I entitled to?
The Child Care Subsidy is based on your family’s income, activity level and care requirements. You can use our Child Care Subsidy Calculator to estimate your out-of-pocket costs, or speak with our team about how CCS may apply to your family.
Is there a waitlist?
Availability can vary depending on the age group and time of year. Places in nursery and kindergarten programs can fill quickly, so we encourage families to register their interest early and speak with our Surrey Hills childcare team about current availability.
What safety measures are in place?
Our Surrey Hills childcare centre has secure entry systems, supervision procedures, regular risk assessments and clear medical management protocols. Outdoor spaces are age-appropriate, enclosed and closely supervised by trained educators. Educators are trained in First Aid, CPR, asthma and anaphylaxis management, and child safety is embedded into our everyday practice.
Do children at Elgar Road take part in Explorers Somerville experiences?
Children at Explorers Surrey Hills engage in experiences connected to Explorers Somerville, our nature-based learning precinct designed to deepen children’s connection to nature, sustainability, creativity and Country. Learn more about Explorers Somerville.
Yes. Children at Explorers Surrey Hills Elgar Road take part in outdoor play, garden-based learning, recycling programs and sustainability experiences. Our educators help children explore eco-conscious habits in ways that feel practical, joyful and age-appropriate.
What are the qualifications and experience levels of the educators at Explorers Surrey Hills Elgar Road?
Our educators are diploma- and degree-qualified, with years of experience in early childhood education. They are nurturing, responsive, and dedicated to each child’s individual development.
Do you provide meals?
Yes. Children are provided with fresh, nutritious meals prepared daily by our on-site chef. We cater for allergies, intolerances, cultural preferences and individual dietary needs.
How does Explorers Surrey Hills accommodate children with dietary restrictions or allergies?
We work closely with families to ensure all dietary needs are met. Our in-house chef provides custom meal options for children with allergies or restrictions.
In what ways are families encouraged to participate in their child’s learning journey?
From open days and cultural celebrations to day-to-day updates and family events, we welcome parents to actively engage with their child’s early education experience.
What measures are in place to ensure the safety and well-being of children, especially during outdoor activities?
Our outdoor spaces are age-appropriate, enclosed, and designed with child safety in mind. Supervision is consistent, and our staff are trained in first aid and emergency procedures.
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 Surrey Hills Elgar Road.
The classrooms, gardens, and spaces your child will get to know.
Ready when you are
Come and see Explorers Surrey Hills Elgar Road 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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