Fawkner Park Children’s Centre and Kindergarten is a not-for-profit community cooperative located in the heritage-nominated Fawkner Park. With a license for 74 children, the Centre offers excellence in care and early childhood education, focusing on nurturing children, supporting families, and building communities. The Centre’s unique curriculum is based on an ‘intention-led’ emergent approach, guided by a team of dedicated teachers who encourage children’s individual and group interests.
Established in 1989, the Centre has a rich history dating back to 1925 when a kiosk first stood on the current site, providing essential services to the local community during World War Two. Over the years, the Centre has evolved to include various facilities, such as the South Yarra Maternal and Child Health Centre and the South Yarra Senior Citizen’s Centre. In 2010, the Centre underwent an expansion funded by a combination of fundraising efforts, contributions from the Melbourne City Council, and the Department of Education and Training.
Committed to child safety and high-quality early childhood education, Fawkner Park Children’s Centre follows the Early Years Learning Framework and the Victorian Early Years Learning and Development Framework. The Centre’s School Readiness Program prepares children for the transition to primary school, ensuring they are well-equipped for this new phase. With a focus on collaboration and partnership with families, the Centre has been recognized with an “Exceeding Expectations” rating across all areas of assessment, reflecting its dedication to providing a nurturing and community-focused environment.