3 day guarantee

Mount Sheridan Early Education Centre ELS

Places available

Enrolment availability

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

  • Monday
  • Tuesday
  • Wednesday
  • Thursday
  • Friday

Childcare and kindergarten in Bentley Park, QLD

Mount Sheridan 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 Bentley Park, Edmonton, Gordonvale, Mount Sheridan, White Rock and Woree.

Spacious outdoor environments

Our spacious outdoor areas give children room to run, climb, balance and explore. Children enjoy sandpits, tuff trays, a mud kitchen, balance bikes, a climbing fort and open play spaces, with natural side gardens adding plenty of opportunities for sensory play.

Purpose-built indoor learning spaces

Inside, children learn and play in purpose-built spaces with natural elements and open-ended resources. The rooms are set up to encourage children to try ideas, work with others and follow their interests through play.

Calm and supportive educators

Our educators and teachers create a calm, supportive environment where children feel comfortable joining in, asking questions and building confidence. The team works closely with families to understand each child’s routines, interests and learning needs.

Individual Learning Plans

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.

Government-approved Kindergarten program

Our Government-approved Kindergarten program is delivered by a Bachelor-qualified Early Childhood Teacher. The program helps children practise routines, build friendships and develop the skills they need before starting school.

Weekly enrichment programs

Children take part in weekly Japanese lessons, yoga, meditation and sports as part of their learning program. These experiences add variety to the week and give children different ways to move, focus, communicate and learn.

Fresh meals prepared daily

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

Strong partnerships with families

We have an open-door approach and value strong relationships with families and the community. Families can stay involved in their child’s learning and keep up with their day through regular photos and updates in our family app.

Secure your place today

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

Meet our Centre Manager

Cassandra

  • Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care
“I’m passionate about creating a positive, safe, and engaging learning environment where children feel supported, inspired, and confident to explore the world around them. ”

I began my journey in early childhood education in 2015, the same year I became a parent myself. Becoming a mother inspired my passion for fostering children’s holistic development. Watching my own daughter grow and reach important milestones sparked a deep desire to contribute meaningfully to the development of other children – to help build the strong foundation they need for a lifetime of learning. Over the past nine years, I’ve progressed through various roles in early education. I spent four years as an educator, then five years as an Assistant Centre Manager, before stepping into my current role as Centre Manager in February 2025. These experiences have shaped my deep understanding of the importance of early learning and the unique role educators play in a child’s development.

I’ve learned that every child is a unique individual with their own learning style, pace, and needs. That’s why I’ve adopted a child-centred approach to teaching – one that values curiosity, exploration, and each child’s voice. I’m passionate about creating a positive, safe, and engaging learning environment where children feel supported, inspired, and confident to explore the world around them. I believe learning should extend beyond the classroom, and that children thrive when they are encouraged to see learning as a lifelong journey.

I often speak with families about the advantages of attending a dedicated early childhood education centre compared to learning at home. While home is a child’s first learning environment, an early learning centre offers structured programs, rich social opportunities, and access to specialised educational resources. Our educators are trained professionals who thoughtfully observe, plan, and guide children through play-based learning experiences that nurture every area of development—cognitive, emotional, physical, and social.

Our team at Mount Sheridan is are a diverse group, each bringing different perspectives and strengths, but united by a shared vision: to create an inclusive and empowering environment where every child feels safe, valued, and encouraged to reach their full potential. We’re committed to delivering play-based learning that sparks creativity, critical thinking, and joy.

Building strong, respectful relationships with our families is central to everything I do. I prioritise open, consistent communication and take the time to understand each family’s unique situation and needs. By being approachable, empathetic, and solution-focused, I create a supportive environment where families feel confident and connected. I also strive to lead with positivity and purpose, supporting my team so they can, in turn, provide the best care and learning experience for the children in our centre.

I look forward to welcoming your family to Mount Sheridan Early Education Centre.

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Our innovative early learning programs

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

Sustainability

We practice sustainability by turning off lights and air conditioners when not in use and utilising water-saving taps and fittings. We incorporate recycled materials into learning experiences, fostering creativity and environmental awareness. We have veggie, herb, and native gardens, and a worm farm to compost our scraps.

Community engagement

Our children actively engage with the community through regular excursions to the local park and participation in events at St Therese’s school. We also maintain a heartfelt connection with our local retirement centre, Infinite Gardens, by sending gifts and artworks.

Music and movement

Our evidence-based Rhythm and Movement for Self-Regulation (RAMSR) program is designed to develop fundamental skills that help support children’s self-regulation, memory, and concentration. It is an innovative approach to holistic learning, development and well-being in early childhood.

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.

Age-appropriate early learning

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(6 weeks – 15 months)

Koala room

In the Koala room, our primary goals are to establish secure and positive relationships, support infants in reaching their developmental milestones, and foster early connections with their environment. We focus on sensory exploration and nurturing each child’s emerging interests to provide a strong foundation for growth.

  Next: Wombat room
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(15 months – 2 years)

Wombat room

For the Wombat room, we aim to strengthen relationships, assist toddlers in achieving age-appropriate milestones, and deepen their connections with the world around them. Our program emphasises language development, social interaction, and encouraging curiosity through playful learning experiences.

Previous: Koala room Next: Platypus room
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(2 – 3 years )

Platypus room

In the Platypus room, our objectives include fostering meaningful relationships, supporting children in meeting developmental milestones, and enhancing their understanding of the world. We focus on promoting independence, problem-solving skills, and imaginative play to stimulate cognitive and social growth.

Previous: Wombat room Next: Kangaroo room
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(3 – 4 years)

Kangaroo room

The Kangaroo room is dedicated to nurturing relationships, helping children reach their developmental milestones, and expanding their knowledge of the world. We place a strong emphasis on collaborative play, creativity, and early literacy and numeracy skills to prepare children for the next stage of their learning journey.

Previous: Platypus room Next: Kookaburra room
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(4 – 5 years)

Kookaburra room

In the Kookaburra room, our curriculum is guided by the Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF) and the Queensland Kindergarten Learning Guideline (QKLG). Goals for this room include learning and practising essential social, emotional, problem-solving, and study skills that will be used throughout schooling. Our Bachelor-qualified Early Childhood Teachers design structured learning experiences, ensuring children are confident and prepared for school.

Previous: Kangaroo room  
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Fresh, nutritious meals every day

At our Bentley Park early learning centre, all meals and snacks are prepared by our in-house chef. We promote healthy eating with a variety of breakfast cereals, toast, and fresh fruits each morning. Our morning and afternoon tea menus feature an assortment of nutritious, fresh foods, with a late snack available for children in the evening. We cater to dietary requirements with suitable alternatives, and our menus rotate weekly to provide diverse and balanced options.

What a typical day looks like for your child

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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.

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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
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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
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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
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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
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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

$155.45/day

Toddler

2 – 4 years

$154.40/day

Kindergarten

4 – 5 years

$153.35/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

5.0(26 reviews)
Source: Google Business Profile. Reviews are correct at the time of accessing this webpage.

alidee mamu

Great Day care and Kindy programme, both of my kids went there and we are happy. Our first child was so well prepared for Prep because of the best teachers in their Kindy program. All the educators are amazing from the nursey class to to Kindy.

Triina Liccardello

Mount Sheridan Early Learning Center is one of the top early learning centers in Cairns! 🌟 The center is small, family-oriented environment ensures every child feels valued and cared for. The Service is friendly and dedicated staff always put the…. See more Mount Sheridan Early Learning Center is one of the top early learning centers in Cairns! 🌟 The center is small, family-oriented environment ensures every child feels valued and cared for. The Service is friendly and dedicated staff always put the safety, wellbeing, and happiness of the children first, creating a nurturing space where little ones can learn, grow, and thrive.. I would recommend this center to everyone. 😊

Nicole Leary

After being at a daycare where my daughter wasn’t settled and scared of one of the lead educators, we moved her to Mount Sheridan Early Learning and she has never been more settled at a daycare than this one. We have been here for 2 years and we…. See more After being at a daycare where my daughter wasn’t settled and scared of one of the lead educators, we moved her to Mount Sheridan Early Learning and she has never been more settled at a daycare than this one. We have been here for 2 years and we have had almost no issues with drop off, as my daughter is always excited to see the different educators and her friends. We have had nothing but great experiences from Mount Sheridan Early Learning and highly recommend 5-stars 🤩🤩

Kate Wu

Mount Sheridan early education center is a great daycare. Our boy loves going there, the educators are very caring and engaged in the children’s learning and daily activities.

Amy Johnston

Mount Sheridan Early Education is an incredibly friendly and welcoming environment with small class sizes. Both my children have attended from 6 months of age and we all love it.

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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.