Maples Early Learning - Hawthorn East

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.

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).

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.