Goodstart Early Learning Mount Martha - Craigie Road

Play is the order of the day of Goodstart Early Learning and the programs at the centre are grounded in a play-based approach. The educators embed teaching and learning into play experiences, helping the children to make sense of the world around them. This is how the children learn about how things work and develop important foundational relationships and skills. 

The primarily child-directed, play-based curriculum ensures that the children are engaged in their learning. They are encouraged to take the lead, developing their negotiation, risk taking, problem solving and social skills. The educators observe the children and help to challenge them by extending their learning and interests.

The educators recognise that every child is unique and that they bring their own needs, interests and strengths with them each day. The program is designed to be flexible to cater to these differing needs, ensuring every child has the opportunity to thrive at Goodstart.

Donna Staunton-Clarke

Hi, I’m Donna Staunton-Clarke and I’m the Centre Director here at Goodstart Mount Martha, Craigie Road.

I have been the Centre Director at Goodstart Craigie Road since March 2024, and I was also the Centre Director here previously throughout 2018 and 2019.

I have been in the Early Childhood industry for over 30 years and as a director throughout the past 17 years. I have also worked in a range of services such as a trainer/assessor teaching the Cert III and Diploma in Children’s Services, a family day care coordinator supporting over 50 family day care educators and as an independent consultant supporting new centres to open. My experiences have been both here in Australia and prior to this in England where I am from.

My Early Learning values:
I strongly believe that your child’s first experiences in early childhood education should be positive and fun as these are the years where we can teach the love for learning, friendship building, resilience, and enquiry.

What I love about our community:
I have lived on the Mornington peninsula for the past 16 years since I arrived with my family in Australia. 2 of my 3 children attended Goodstart and all 3 have completed their primary school years here and now into their high school years. I love the community and the connections that I have built.

A little more about me: 
I am married and have 3 children, Ellie who is 20, Mia who is 13, and Sophie who is 12. I love the beach, holidays and just spending time at home with my family.

Why your child should spend the day with me (and the amazing team at Goodstart Mount Martha, Craigie Road):
At Goodstart Mount Martha, Craigie Road we strive to provide a safe, peaceful, and natural environment that engages children's five senses, provoking wonder, curiosity, and intellectual engagement. We have an amazing yard which is the original paddock which is a hidden gem placed between the 2 centres. We have a long-standing team, including 5 educators who have been with Goodstart for 20+ years, and many more with 15-, 10- and 5-years’ service.

I look forward to welcoming you and your family.