McGraths Hill Learning Centre

The educators get much of their inspiration for programming and activities from the open, natural environment. The centre is on 5 acres of rural land with natural vegetation and friendly farm animals.

Rather than having strict schedules, educators allow the children to help determine what they would like to do based on what is going on in their environment that day. Educators say that the environment is the biggest element of their programming.

• Regular excursions to visit the farm animals, including Harry the horse
• Monthly incursions include a Japanese show, a bug show, and a science show
• Cooking classes with the centre chef to learn about healthy eating 
• Sustainability program to teach children where food comes from and how to look after the environment
• Music and movement program, where children can learn about rhythm, musical techniques, and dancing

The centre cook works in the state of the art commercial kitchen, providing delicious meals on site each day. There is a four week menu with a different meal each day, and staggered meal times to cater for the different age groups.

The centre’s menu follows nutritional guidelines and gives the children the recommended dietary intake of the 5 food groups. Children are offered breakfast, morning tea, lunch, afternoon tea and a late snack.

The children have their own vegetable garden, which they attend to daily. The educators use this space to teach the children about healthy eating and nutrition, as part of their sustainability program.

I’m so happy I have found a place like McGraths Hill Learning Centre, we couldn’t be happier!

Kym, parent

Thank you to MGHLC for treating my children as family and nurturing them and helping them to grow into strong, confident young men who are ready for whatever the world throws at them!

Sherilyn, Parent

Staff retention: the educators at McGraths Hill Learning Centre tend to stay for a long period of time.  The longest serving educator is Lisa who has been working at the centre for 13 years. Many other educators have been with the centre for a long time as we understand the importance of continuity of staff for the children to settle into a trusting and caring enviornment. 

Consistency of care: the centre understands the value of their low staff turnover, as this offers consistency for the children and families, which is vital in building strong relationships.

Training: the educators are always up-skilling their teaching practices through in-services, webinars, conferences, research and more.

Family focus: the centre is run by three sisters, who are all qualified Early Childhood Teachers. They value their family focused reputation, and invite families in the area to stop by anytime for a tour.

McGraths Hill Learning Centre speaks volumes within its own occupancy and family retention. We rarely have families leave our centre unless their children are heading off to Kindergarten or their family situation has changed. We aim to provide the best possible care and education to the children in our centre.

Stephanie Nehme, Centre Director

I love working at McGraths Hill Learning Centre because everyone is so welcoming. It's such a tight knit community, like a big family! We have a large outdoor playground that is very sustainable and natural providing the children with endless opportunities. The Centre speaks volumes once you come and check it out.

Bek, Educator

The centre is so welcoming and a peaceful natural environment. I enjoy seeing all the children’s happy faces everyday as they partake in so many amazing learning experiences by the dedicated teachers.

Shanelle, Cook.