3 day guarantee

Bundaberg Early Learning Centre ELS

Limited spots remaining

Enrolment availability

The information below gives an indication of current availability at the centre.

  • Monday
  • Tuesday
  • Wednesday
  • Thursday
  • Friday

Childcare and kindergarten in Bundaberg, QLD

Bundaberg Early Learning Centre offers long day care and a Government-approved Kindergarten program for children aged 6 weeks to 6 years, conveniently located for families in Bundaberg, Bundaberg West, Millbank, Avoca, Kensington and Branyan.

Outdoor environments with bush tucker

Children can explore three distinct outdoor environments with age-appropriate climbing experiences designed for safe, active play. Our bush tucker and native garden gives children opportunities to learn about plants, nature and the world around them.

Play-based indoor learning spaces

Our indoor spaces include diverse play areas that reflect children’s interests, along with an interactive whiteboard in the kindergarten room. Children can explore, create and build skills through play, technology and hands-on learning.

Dedicated and passionate team

Our dedicated educators and teachers create a warm, family-like environment where children feel secure and valued. The team takes the time to build strong relationships with children and families.

Government-approved Kindergarten program

Our Government-approved Kindergarten program is delivered by a Bachelor-qualified Early Childhood Teacher. Children build confidence, independence and early learning skills as they prepare for school.

Individual Learning Plans for each child

Each child has an Individual Learning Plan that reflects their strengths, interests and developmental goals. Educators use these plans to guide learning experiences and build on each child’s progress over time.

Exciting extracurricular experiences

Children enjoy community guests and shows, including Wakka Boy, music performances and cultural activities. Kindergarten children can also take part in Indigenous art and the language program through the ELLA platform, all included in the daily fee.

Fresh meals prepared daily

Fresh meals are prepared daily to help children stay nourished, settled and ready for their day. Menus include balanced meals and snacks, and cater for allergies and individual dietary requirements.

Updates through our family app

Families receive photos and updates through our family app, making it easier to follow their child’s routines, learning and special moments at the centre.

Secure your place today

Book a tour to experience the centre and confirm availability for your child.

Meet our Centre Manager

Nicole

13 years with our centre

  • Advanced Diploma of Community Services
  • Diploma of Leadership and Business Management
“Nothing is more rewarding than seeing a child grow and develop, knowing we play a vital role in shaping their future as early childhood educators.”

My career in early childhood education began in 2001, and I joined Bundaberg Early Learning Centre in 2013. I was inspired to pursue this career because I love watching children laugh and learn. Nothing is more rewarding than seeing a child grow and develop, knowing we play a vital role in shaping their future as early childhood educators.

My approach to early learning is always positive and approachable. As a centre manager, I relate to all families and children in my centre. By getting down to the children’s level and taking the time to understand their personalities, I create an environment of trust and security.

Our team is passionate about creating a centre that feels like a home away from home for both families and children. We celebrate cultural diversity and work in partnership with families to meet each child’s individual needs. All team members are trained in Child Protection, and we have an onsite Child Protection champion who leads the team and monitors standards. We have a Workplace Health and Safety officer who ensures health and safety standards are met through quality checklists and procedures.

Many educators have been with the centre for over 10 years, fostering a strong team culture where we support and guide each other. Many of us have children of our own, so we understand the childcare and early learning journey. We proudly offer support, from enrolment and applying for the Child Care Subsidy to tips for handling fussy eaters. We’re here to help.

I look forward to welcoming you to our early education centre in Bundaberg.

Read moreless

Our innovative early learning programs

At our early learning centre in Bundaberg, our play-based curriculum is guided by the Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF), supporting children to learn through play, exploration and discovery.

Sustainability

We open your child’s mind to the outdoors, raising their awareness of the environment and the importance of their role in protecting it. Our centre has a natural garden with native plants, vegetable gardens, and bush tucker trees, providing hands-on learning experiences about sustainability and eco-friendly practices.

Language and early literacy

Children develop early literacy through storytelling, books, songs and meaningful conversations. Educators support children to explore language in many forms, including speaking, listening, viewing, drawing and writing, while building confidence communicating with others.

Social and emotional learning

Children develop a strong sense of identity as they feel safe, secure and supported, building confidence, resilience and a positive sense of self. Through group activities, conversations and play, children learn to interact with others with care, empathy and respect, building positive relationships and friendships.

Exploration and problem solving

Educators introduce open-ended materials and invitations to explore, such as building, measuring and experimenting. Through shared conversations and investigation, children develop curiosity, problem-solving and critical thinking skills.

Age-appropriate early learning

ELS-centre-nursery

(0 – 15 months)

Nursery

In the nursery room, our main learning goals focus on meeting children’s milestones and socialisation. This includes fostering essential physical skills such as crawling, walking, and fine motor abilities. We emphasise encouraging social interactions with caregivers and peers, which is vital for building early social and emotional connections.

  Next: Junior toddlers
ELS-centre-toddler-3

(15 months – 2 years)

Junior toddlers

For this age group, our primary learning goals are enhancing socialisation, assisting with separation anxiety, and introducing new learning and play experiences. We aim to build their confidence through diverse activities, helping them adjust to spending time away from their parents and developing initial social skills.

Previous: Nursery Next: Senior toddlers
ELS-centre-toddler-1

(2 – 3 years)

Senior toddlers

For the 2-3 age group, our focus shifts to developing self-help skills, socialisation skills, and language development. Children are encouraged to become more independent by learning tasks such as feeding and dressing themselves. Group activities are designed to enhance their social interactions, while language development is fostered through communication and expressive activities.

Previous: Junior toddlers Next: Pre-kindy
ELS-centre-pre-kindy (2)

(3 – 4 years)

Pre-kindy

In the pre-kindy room, our main learning goals involve further developing social skills and emotional regulation. Children are introduced to early literacy and numeracy concepts, preparing them for more structured learning environments. Independence is promoted through self-directed play and tasks, helping children gain confidence in their abilities.

Previous: Senior toddlers Next: Kindergarten
ELS-centre-kindy

(4 – 5 years)

Kindergarten

Led by a Bachelor-qualified Early Childhood Teacher, our Government-approved Kindergarten program focuses on preparing children for school readiness. With a capacity of up to 22 children per day, our kindergarten program emphasises literacy, numeracy, and critical thinking skills. The curriculum is designed to enhance social, emotional, and physical development through structured learning activities, ensuring each child receives individual attention and personalised experiences.

Previous: Pre-kindy  
ELS-centre-kindergarten-program

Queensland Government-approved Kindergarten program

Our kindergarten programs are tailored to meet your child’s individual learning needs across numeracy, literacy, emotional and social development, resilience, and self-regulation.

At our early learning centre, we offer a Queensland Government-approved Kindergarten enhanced learning program, supporting your child’s development and well-being from now, at school and beyond. In Queensland, 4-year-old children can access a funded kindergarten program led by a Bachelor-qualified Early Childhood Teacher. If eligible, your child will be able to participate in the government-approved kindergarten program at no cost, for up to 15 hours per week, 40 weeks per year. Talk to us about how this reduces your out-of-pocket costs.

The added benefits of our kindergarten program include:

  • Extended long day care opening hours
  • Open all year round (excl. public holidays)
  • Programs developed and delivered by our Early Childhood Teachers
  • Exclusive music and movement program for self-regulation
ELS-centre-page-food-2

We’re all about healthy, nutritious eating

Thanks to the in-house chef at our Bundaberg child care centre, your child can expect healthy, nutritious, and yummy meals. We offer a rotating seasonal menu, providing breakfast, morning tea, lunch, afternoon tea, and a late snack freshly made daily. We cater to all dietary requirements, including halal.

What a typical day looks like for your child

typical-day-arrival-648x300-1.jpg

Arrival at the centre

Your child will be welcomed by our team of educators, who will ensure the morning transition from home to centre goes as smoothly as possible. On arrival, share information about your child’s specific needs for the day.

  Next: Mealtimes
typical-day-mealtime-2-648x300-1.jpg

Mealtimes

Our centre chefs prepare a nutritious menu for your child to sit down and eat. This is a great time for everyone to share stories from the day. Educators model healthy eating practices, social behaviours and support children’s growing independence with mealtime routines.

Previous: Arrival at the centre Next: Infant care
typical-day-infant-care-648x300-1.jpg

Infant care

If you have an infant, we spend one-on-one time with them to establish a connection. Educators talk gently and respond to babies’ cues. We use songs, games, and conversations to strengthen relationships and build language skills.

Previous: Mealtimes Next: Play-based learning
typical-day-play-based-learning-648x300-1.jpg

Play-based learning

Your child is naturally curious. They want to learn and explore, which is why we teach through play-based learning. It supports language, motor skills, memory, emotions and social relationships. Educators plan play-based learning experiences based on children’s interests and goals.

Previous: Infant care Next: Sleep, rest and relaxation
sleep-rest-slider

Sleep, rest and relaxation

We match routines to your child’s individual needs. Opportunities for rest and relaxation help make them feel safe. Play-based learning experiences are provided for older children who no longer don’t sleep in centre.

Previous: Play-based learning Next: Heading home
typical-day-slider-heading-home-648x300-1.jpg

Heading home

As your child prepares to head home, this is your opportunity to speak with our friendly educators about your child’s day and everything they learnt. We look forward to welcoming you back tomorrow.

Previous: Sleep, rest and relaxation  

Fees

The Child Care Subsidy can reduce your daily out-of-pocket fee by up to 95% depending on your family’s entitlements.

Nursery

0 – 2 years

$163.15/day

Toddler

2 – 4 years

$162.00/day

Kindergarten

4 – 5 years

$160.95/day

Step 1: Family Information & Financial State

Child Care Subsidy Estimator

Discover how much child care subsidy you may be entitled to by entering the fields below.

**1-4 days = 12 hour sessions, 5 days = 100 hours

Changes to CCS – The 3-Day Guarantee (Starting 5th January 2026)

The Australian Government is replacing the Child Care Subsidy (CCS) Activity Test from 5th January 2026, to provide a min. 72 hours per fortnight or 3 days per week of subsidised early childhood education and care (ECEC) for eligible families.

2026 3-Day Guarantee

From 5th January 2026, based on the information you have entered, here's an estimate of your CCS entitlements and your out-of-pocket costs.

Total Fees

$0.00

Estimated CCS Fee Subsidy

$0.00

Kindergarten/Preschool Subsidy

$0.00

Out of Pocket Cost (what you pay)

$0.00

Matrix Out of Pocket Cost

Is your CCS working for you? Check the out-of-pocket cost matrix per child against session lengths and weekly days below. Please note: The table in the matrix only shows out-of-pocket costs after CCS (Child Care Subsidy).

Child 1 1 Day 2 Days 3 Days 4 Days 5 Days

*Kindergarten/preschool subsidy applied: $0.00

What our families say

4.9(29 reviews)
Source: Google Business Profile. Reviews are correct at the time of accessing this webpage.

Rowee Johnson

I absolutely love this daycare centre. The first thing I noticed was the centre manager/front desk lady knows every child by name and who they belong to, not only that but she interacts with them in their rooms. It’s a very welcoming and comforting…. See more I absolutely love this daycare centre. The first thing I noticed was the centre manager/front desk lady knows every child by name and who they belong to, not only that but she interacts with them in their rooms. It’s a very welcoming and comforting environment and my 2 boys are thriving.

Jacinta King

We have felt so so lucky to have found this centre when we had our first child 7 years ago. They have been nothing but supportive over the years and we cannot thank them enough. All 3 of our kids have been to this centre and the staff have…. See more We have felt so so lucky to have found this centre when we had our first child 7 years ago. They have been nothing but supportive over the years and we cannot thank them enough. All 3 of our kids have been to this centre and the staff have practically been the same since starting with only a few changes here and there, this really hep with the kids routine and was amazing to see familiar face everyday over 7 years. I truly wish we could have packed them up and moved them to Brisbane with us. We can not thank you guys enough, we will miss you ❤️

Denise Wattie

We have sent all 3 of our kids to Bundaberg Early Learning Centre and each of them have loved it. The educators are fantastic and caring. My little ones have always been happy to go to daycare and the biggest smiles at every pick-up.

Holly *

My daughter and I absolutely love Bundaberg Early Learning Centre. Even from our first tour through the centre, my daughter has loved it there and I have felt so welcome. Nicole is always up for a friendly chat and is more than welcoming and…. See more My daughter and I absolutely love Bundaberg Early Learning Centre. Even from our first tour through the centre, my daughter has loved it there and I have felt so welcome. Nicole is always up for a friendly chat and is more than welcoming and accomodating to any need; even if it's just a good laugh on your way in or out of the centre. There is always an educator greeting you and your child you walk in and always a nice word said on your way out. My daughter adjusted perfectly to her first day and development wise is making leaps and bounds. The app is so helpful to keep track of what your little one is doing throughout the day, meals, toileting, nap time and photos all so easy to access. All the educators here genuinely care for the children in the centre and strive daily to make sure they are nurtured and thriving in their environments. My daughter loves going every morning and regularly asks for her educators, even on the weekends! I couldn't recommend a better centre to any parent, it truly is amazing and so is every educator.

Stephanie O'Neill

I have had multiple children go through this centre. Highly recommend to other parents. Genuine caring staff. My little ones have all loved going to kindy.

Explore nearby G8 Education centres

Looking for other great childcare, kindergarten or preschool options? Discover more G8 Education centres near you!

Frequently asked questions

A centre tour is a convenient way to experience the childcare centre of your choice and meet with our qualified educators at a time that is suitable for your family’s schedule. Click here to book a tour online.

On the day of the tour, you can observe practices and interactions within the centre environment. You’ll be able to see all the rooms and playgrounds, ask the team members any questions you have in mind, and get all the information you need to make the best decision for your child.

Enrolling is simple, and our Family Support Team will guide you through each step.

First, find your local centre and book a tour so you can meet the team and explore the learning environment. If the centre is the right fit and a place is available, you’ll receive an enrolment offer for your child. If a place is not currently available in your child’s age group, we can add your child to the waitlist and keep you updated.

To finalise your enrolment, you’ll complete an online enrolment form through a secure link sent by our Family Support Team. You’ll also need to provide key details and documents, including your child’s birth certificate, Medicare details, immunisation history statement and, if eligible, your Child Care Subsidy details.

Before your child’s first day, you may be invited to attend a Stay and Play session. This gives your child time to explore the centre, meet their educators, and start feeling comfortable in their new environment. Once your paperwork is complete, your child is ready to start their early learning journey with us.

Read our step-by-step guide on how to enrol here.

Starting child care is a big milestone, and a little preparation can help your child feel more comfortable and confident.

Before your child’s first day, you can talk positively about their new centre, explain what their day might look like, and practise small routines such as packing their bag, saying goodbye, washing hands and sitting down for meals. You may also like to visit the centre with your child, meet their educators and ask our team about what to bring on the first day.

When your child starts, our educators will take the time to get to know your child’s routine, interests, comfort items and individual needs. Settling in looks different for every child, so we work closely with families to help children feel safe, supported and ready to learn.

Learn more about our Settling-in Program.

Most of our child care and early education centres offer nappies and wipes, sunscreen and hats, as well as nutritious meals prepared by our in-house cook. Some centres also provide sheets and formula, so you may not need to remember to pack them.

For nursery children, be sure to bring: nappy rash cream, dummies, bottles and teats, comfort toys or blankets, three spare outfits and spare socks.

For toddlers and preschool or kindergarten-aged children, it’s best to bring: spare underwear, water bottle or sippy cup, sun hat, closed-toe shoes, two spare outfits and spare socks.

Plus, anything else your individual child may need, such as breast milk, a sleeping bag, a comforter or medication.

It’s best to speak to your centre of choice for a full list of everything included.

Early Learning Services uses Xplor Home as our family communication app. It is the best and easiest way to keep track of your child’s day.

After you enrol your child with the centre, you can utilise Xplor Home to book child care days, manage your account, receive the photographs that capture your child’s learning, learn about your child’s progress, as well as keep up-to-date with upcoming centre events and important information.

If your child shows signs of an infectious illness when they arrive at the centre or becomes sick during the day, you may be notified that you need to make alternative arrangements or pick up your child from the centre and keep them home until they are no longer infectious. While we understand that this can be inconvenient, Early Learning Services is committed to maintaining a healthy environment and reducing the risk of infection for all children.

Under the Child Care Subsidy (CCS), families are allowed 42 absence days per child, per financial year. These can be taken for any reason, including public holidays and when children are sick, without requiring families to provide documentation.

Contact us

We look forward to welcoming your family.