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Maples Early Learning - Hawthorn East Centre overview
Phone
(03) 9116 9054Our Hawthorn East center is designed with heart and purpose, offering enriching learning environments for children from nursery to kindergarten.
At the core of our philosophy is the Reggio Emilia learning approach, which emphasizes collaboration, community, and exploration.
Our layout features six thoughtfully designed classrooms spread across the service creating small and cosy spaces for the children. Each room is a haven of curiosity and wonder, where children are inspired to think creatively, explore their interests, and express themselves.
Every space reflects our commitment to nurturing a lifelong love of learning.
Join us at our family-driven, community-focused centre where your child’s journey of discovery begins. Visit us today to see how we’re creating a world of possibilities for young minds!
Fees & Vacancies
Maples Early Learning - Hawthorn East Service features
See more (10)Maples Early Learning - Hawthorn East service include:
Get to know us
Meet the team
Meet the team
Founded in 2019 by Samantha and Jarrod Macdonald, Maples Early Learning combines decades of professional experience with a family-first approach. Guided by their deep understanding of early childhood education, our mission is to provide exceptional care and learning for every child.
As owner operators we strive to ensure that each child recieves the highest quality education and care. With an onsite presence ensuring the commitment to excellence is continually pursued.
About the Curriculum
About the Curriculum
At Maples Early Learning, we are proud to offer a nurturing, Reggio Emilia-inspired approach to early childhood education, where children thrive through creativity, exploration, and connection with nature. Guided by the Victorian Early Years Learning Framework, we always strive for excellence, ensuring that every child receives the highest quality early learning experience.
Our passionate and dedicated teachers lead intentional, enriching programs that include art, gardening, music, and physical education, all designed to foster a lifelong love of learning.
We emphasize sustainability and the importance of real-world materials, creating a home-like environment that sparks curiosity and instils a sense of wonder in every child. With beautiful indoor and outdoor spaces, children are encouraged to explore and grow in a safe, supportive setting that prioritizes their safety and wellbeing.
Families also receive regular educational updates, including detailed 6-monthly summative assessments, keeping you informed and connected with your child's progress every step of the way.
Maples philosophy is grounded in fostering a nurturing, inclusive, and collaborative environment guided by the principles of Reggio Emilia and nature pedagogy. Key highlights include:
Children
- Viewed as active participants in their learning, trusted to make choices and contribute to their environment.
- Programs are play-based, stimulating exploration, creativity, and social connections.
- Emphasis on fostering empathy, community belonging, and multi-sensory learning.
Families
- Recognized as the primary influence on a child's development, with respectful and transparent partnerships cultivated.
- Opportunities for engagement, feedback, and collaborative discussions are highly valued.
Education
- Intentional teaching practices focus on meaningful learning opportunities.
- Professional growth is encouraged through reflection and sharing diverse pedagogical approaches.
- Documentation tracks and celebrates children's learning progress.
Community
- Emphasis on building strong connections with local communities and celebrating cultural diversity.
- Active involvement in community-driven initiatives and sustainability efforts.
Environment
- Nature-inspired settings that foster exploration and care for the environment.
- Programs include sustainable practices, such as recycling and community gardens, to instill responsibility and environmental consciousness.
This holistic approach emphasises partnership, sustainability, and child-centred learning to create a thriving educational experience for all involved.
Programs
Programs
We are dedicated to enriching your child’s educational journey through a wide range of specialist-led activities that inspire creativity, foster confidence, and nurture essential skills for a successful future. Our fee inclusive and unique Programs Include:
Sustainability Education
Instilling eco-conscious values through engaging hands-on activities that connect children with nature and environmental responsibility.
Music and Movement
Encouraging self-expression and rhythm through dynamic music classes that enhance coordination, focus and creativity.
Yoga and Wellbeing
Promoting mindfulness, relaxation, and physical balance to build resilience and a strong sense of self.
Creative Arts
Unleashing imagination through drawing, painting, sculpture and other artistic explorations guided by expert instructors.
Prep for Prep
Preparing young learners with essential academic and social skills to confidently transition into their next educational milestones.
Physical Education
Supporting active lifestyles and teamwork with fun, engaging exercises and sports tailored for growing bodies.
Kindergarten
The Maples Kindergarten Program offers a two-year journey beginning with the three-year-old program, designed to provide children with consistency in their learning environment.
Through familiar settings, faces, and secure relationships, children experience stability that fosters a smooth transition through their kindergarten years and into school.
The three-year-old program lays the groundwork for four-year-old kindergarten, equipping children with essential skills for their educational journey.
Maples combines a structured curriculum with play-based learning, led by qualified Early Childhood Teachers. The program integrates inquiry-based projects, cultural celebrations, and a progressive meal approach to provide a well-rounded experience that supports every child’s growth.
Daily Routine Highlights
- Morning Meeting and Group Time
- Indoor and Outdoor Programs
- Inquiry-Based Projects and Sustained Shared Thinking
- Incursions and Excursions
- Small Group Experiences
- Rest and Quiet Time
- Nutritional Meal Times
Pursuit to Excellence
The Maples Kindergarten Program adheres to the Victorian Early Years Learning and Development Framework (VEYLDF), which emphasizes children as competent learners and rights holders from birth. This framework ensures children are equipped with the skills to navigate unfamiliar and challenging learning experiences.
Government Recognition and Support
Maples’ Kindergarten Program is Victorian Government-approved and displays the Kinder Tick, signifying:
- The program is funded and recognized by the Victorian Government.
- Qualified Early Childhood Teachers (ECTs) with a Bachelor of Early Childhood Education or equivalent lead the program.
- The curriculum is play-based, following VEYLDF principles.
Free Kinder and Funding
Families benefit from the Free Kinder subsidy, covering up to $2101 annually for children attending at least 15 hours per week or $1050.50 for 7.5 hours weekly. Additionally, most families are eligible for the Child Care Subsidy (CCS), further reducing costs.
Attendance Requirements
- Three-Year-Old Kindergarten: A minimum of 7.5 hours per week (1 day).
- Four-Year-Old Kindergarten: A minimum of 15 hours per week (2 days).
Health and Nutrition
Health and Nutrition
At Maples Early Learning, we prepare nutritionally balanced meals fresh on-site daily, using produce from our gardens and local suppliers.
Our menu, aligned with Nutrition Australia guidelines, includes breakfast, morning tea, lunch, afternoon tea, and a late fruit snack.
We prioritise health by reducing white carbohydrates and sugar, using brown rice, wholemeal flour and homemade spreads instead.
Progressive meal times encourage independence, social skills, mindfulness and a love for food.
Children also celebrate cultural diversity by helping prepare dishes like dumplings for Chinese New Year.
A typical menu includes cereals, stewed fruit, lamb or vegetable tagine, zucchini loaf, and fresh fruit.
At Maples, every meal is an opportunity to foster healthy habits and enrich learning.
Interested in this centre but want to keep looking?
Share and add to your favourites for laterLocation
760 Toorak RdHawthorn East, VIC, 3123
Centre Reviews
This centre is absolutely beautiful! The rooms are so thoughtfully designed, with amazing play spaces that would keep children engaged and entertained all... This centre is absolutely beautiful! The rooms are so thoughtfully designed, with amazing play spaces that would keep children engaged and entertained all day. I especially love the outdoor areas, the way children can move freely between indoors and outdoors throughout the day, regardless of the weather, is fantastic. Every play space shows such attention to detail. When I took my son for a recent tour and visit, he absolutely loved the sandpit area with its little cooking setup, construction tools, sink, and even pizza boxes, it really encouraged his imagination and pretend play skills. All of the educators and staff we met during the tour were so warm and welcoming. Overall, I couldn’t recommend this centre more highly, such a beautiful environment for children to learn and play and make me feel reassured leaving him there. Read more
Sami and Jarrod have such a wealth of knowledge and experience in early childhood education, and it really shows — not just in... Sami and Jarrod have such a wealth of knowledge and experience in early childhood education, and it really shows — not just in them, but across the entire team at Maples. The brand-new centre is so thoughtfully planned and beautifully designed. The rooms and outdoor play spaces are perfectly suited to each age group, and the activities are wholesome and engaging — from yoga and composting to sensory play and play-based learning. I also love that they share real-time photos and videos with detailed summaries, so you can see exactly what your child is doing throughout the day. I couldn’t recommend Maples Early Learning highly enough. Even if you’re happy with your current centre, it’s worth booking a tour to see the incredible environment Maples provides for children to grow and thrive. Read more
Thank you so much for your kind review. We love having you and H as part of the Maples family 🍁🧡 Jarrod and Sami
In what can feel like a VERY nerve-wracking time for parents searching for good — let alone great — childcare, we happened to... In what can feel like a VERY nerve-wracking time for parents searching for good — let alone great — childcare, we happened to find 🍁Maples, and it has far exceeded all of our expectations. The staff are warm, friendly, and incredibly professional. I’ll admit I was quite skeptical at first, but the team quickly built trust with both me and my husband through their exceptional care of our son, who started just before his first birthday. Both Sai and Mimi are the most enthusiastic, gentle, and kind educators I’ve ever met. We’re so grateful for their support — they’ve truly become part of our extended village, helping to raise our little boy. We are exceptionally thankful to the entire 🍁Maples team for creating such a kind, caring community for all children, and for going above and beyond to make our son’s transition to daycare such a positive and nurturing experience 🥹 Read more
Thank you so much for your review Lia, we love having A at Maples with us, he has settled so well into care! 🧡🍁 Jarrod and Sami
Seriously the best centre! My kid loves it and the staff are great 😊 Seriously the best centre! My kid loves it and the staff are great 😊
Best center around! A+++ Best center around! A+++
Beautiful centre and an amazing nurturing team - I could not recommend Maples enough! Beautiful centre and an amazing nurturing team - I could not recommend Maples enough!
Our two-year-old daughter has been attending Maples Early Learning Centre and we couldn’t be happier. The educators are warm, patient and genuinely invested... Our two-year-old daughter has been attending Maples Early Learning Centre and we couldn’t be happier. The educators are warm, patient and genuinely invested in each child’s growth and happiness. The rooms are bright and welcoming, the playground is fantastic, and communication with families is excellent. We feel completely confident that she’s safe, cared for and learning new skills in a loving environment. We’re so grateful for the wonderful start Maples is giving her. Read more
What a wonderful experience to enter a beautiful new childcare centre at 760 Toorak Rd Hawthorn East. Sam and Jarrod have created an... What a wonderful experience to enter a beautiful new childcare centre at 760 Toorak Rd Hawthorn East. Sam and Jarrod have created an amazing welcoming space that will allow children to thrive and learn. The most amazing fitout out. Families will love the facility and the great care that Maples provides Read more