3 day guarantee

Thornbury World of Learning

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 Thornbury, VIC

Thornbury World of Learning offers long day care and a Kindergarten program for children aged 6 weeks to 6 years, conveniently located for families in Thornbury, Northcote and Preston in Melbourne.

Outdoor areas for active play

Children enjoy outdoor spaces with a bike track and climbing equipment that support physical development and exploration.

Indoor rooms designed fordiscovery

Our indoor learning spaces are set up for all age groups, encouraging curiosity, creativity and hands-on play.

Stable team with low turnover

Some of our educators have been with the centre since it opened, creating strong, consistent relationships with children and families. Our educators plan engaging daily experiences that support children’s development and wellbeing.

Government-approved Kindergarten

Our Government-approved Kindergarten program is delivered by a Bachelor-qualified Early Childhood Teacher, helping children feel confident and get ready for school.

Individual learning plans for every child

Educators create Individual Learning Plans based on each child’s strengths, interests and development, with regular updates shared with families.

Community connections and enrichment experiences

Children explore the local area through neighbourhood walks and take part in multicultural incursions, along with weekly music and movement and sports programs.

Healthy meals prepared fresh each day

We provide balanced meals and snacks daily, with careful consideration for allergies and individual dietary needs.

Making life easier for families

Nappies, wipes and essentials are provided for your child’s care. Stay connected with updates and photos through our app.

Secure your place today

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

Meet our Centre Manager

Sharyn

19 years with our centre

  • Diploma of Children’s Services
“I strive to create a space where children can explore, learn, and expand their abilities, fostering critical thinking and curiosity. ”

I began my career in early childhood education and care in 1993 and joined Thornbury World of Learning in 2007. My passion has always been to work with children in an educational setting, providing every opportunity for them to grow and develop into their own unique selves. I am dedicated to creating an environment where children feel safe, secure, loved, and supported. Our role is to help children achieve their milestones, fueled by their inherent curiosity and potential.

Our early education centre boasts long-serving, multicultural team members who reflect our local community, many of whom have been with us for over 10 years. We are a close-knit, passionate team where everyone knows all the children, creating a family-like atmosphere. We work in partnership with families to meet each child’s individual needs. Building trust with our families is crucial, and we place great importance on strong relationships from the moment a new family joins us. We encourage 3-4 orientation visits before commencement and are flexible with extended visits as needed. Families are welcome to check in at any time of the day.

We invite families to participate in our incursions, excursions, and family celebrations, such as Christmas and Easter BBQs, to bring our community together. Many of our team members have children and understand the enrolment process, allowing us to support new families effectively, from enrolment to daily tips for settling into the centre.

I look forward to welcoming your family to our early learning centre in Thornbury.

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Our innovative early learning programs

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

Sustainability

We have a sustainability champion who collaborates with our team and children to implement eco-friendly practices. We use recycled paper, maintain a worm farm and compost bin, and turn off the lights during midday rest periods to conserve energy.

Community engagement

We actively engage with our local community through neighbourhood walks, music and sports programs delivered by local teachers, and multicultural incursions. Our kindergarten children visit the local primary school in terms 3 and 4 to prepare for their transition to school.

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.

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

WOL-nursery

(6 weeks – 20 months)

Possum room

In the Possum room, we focus on creating a nurturing and secure environment where babies can explore and develop at their own pace. We emphasise familiar routines, sensory play, motor skill development, and fostering secure attachments through responsive caregiving.

  Next: Koala room
WOL-nursery-3

(20 months – 2.5 years)

Koala room

In the Koala room, children begin to develop their independence and social skills. Our learning goals include promoting language development, encouraging self-help skills, and fostering social interactions.

Previous: Possum room Next: Wombat room
WOL-toddler

(2.5 – 3 years)

Wombat room

The Wombat room focuses on building on the children’s growing independence and preparing them for more structured learning. Learning goals include further developing language and communication skills, enhancing problem-solving abilities, and fostering cooperative play.

Previous: Koala room Next: Joey room
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(3 – 4 years)

Joey room

In the Joey room, we have a 3-year-old kindergarten program that focuses on more advanced social, emotional, and cognitive skills. Learning goals include promoting early literacy and numeracy, encouraging curiosity and exploration, and supporting the development of critical thinking skills.

Previous: Wombat room Next: Kindergarten
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(4 – 5 years)

Kindergarten

The Kangaroo room is our 4-year-old kindergarten room, which prepares children for the transition to school. Learning goals include advanced literacy and numeracy, self-help skills, fostering problem-solving and critical thinking skills, and developing social competence. Led by a Bachelor-qualified Early Childhood Teacher, our curriculum also includes opportunities for children to practice fine motor skills and engage in more complex projects and group activities.

Previous: Joey room  
WOL-government-kindergarten-program

Victorian 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.

Our early learning centre offers the VIC Government-approved Kindergarten program, supporting your child’s development and well-being from now, at school and beyond. In Victoria, 3 and 4-year-old children are able to 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, up to a minimum of 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
WOL-food

We’re all about healthy, nutritious eating

Our Thornbury early learning centre offers a four-week rotational menu for both winter and summer, prepared fresh daily by our in-house chef. Our healthy menu includes a vegetarian option and is developed with input from our families.

We grow our own herbs and some vegetables, which the children care for and pick to use in our meals. This hands-on approach not only provides fresh ingredients but also teaches the children about gardening and the importance of healthy eating.

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.

  Next: Mealtimes
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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

$201.85/day

Toddler

2 – 4 years

$201.85/day

Kindergarten

4 – 5 years

$201.85/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 = 11 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(21 reviews)
Source: Google Business Profile. Reviews are correct at the time of accessing this webpage.

Andrew Kavanagh

This childcare centre is absolutely amazing. We have had 4 kids go through here in the past 10 years and cannot praise everyone at TWOL enough. Very little if any staff turnover, great communication and most importantly the best educators there are…. See more This childcare centre is absolutely amazing. We have had 4 kids go through here in the past 10 years and cannot praise everyone at TWOL enough. Very little if any staff turnover, great communication and most importantly the best educators there are around. Don’t hesitate in sending your children here its awesome

Jacqueline Heggli

We have had a wonderful experience at Thornbury World of Learning, primarily due those who run the centre and the educators who work there. Sharyn and Xindi are incredibly kind, dependable and beautiful to the kids. Our son Oscar has been very happy…. See more We have had a wonderful experience at Thornbury World of Learning, primarily due those who run the centre and the educators who work there. Sharyn and Xindi are incredibly kind, dependable and beautiful to the kids. Our son Oscar has been very happy there, well cared for and we can't thank the whole team enough! They have such a challenging job and they all do it with such grace – each and every one of them. We have felt a part of a little community, and will be grateful to the whole team for being such a positive part of our sons first years forever!

Ophelia Fernandez

Our family has been part of Thornbury World of Learning for the past seven years, and we couldn’t have asked for a better start to our children’s early years. From day one, the educators have been incredibly warm, nurturing, and respectful, creating…. See more Our family has been part of Thornbury World of Learning for the past seven years, and we couldn’t have asked for a better start to our children’s early years. From day one, the educators have been incredibly warm, nurturing, and respectful, creating a space that truly feels like a second home. Sharyn, the manager, is a steady, welcoming presence, and the continuity of staff speaks volumes about the centre’s positive environment. The dedication, care, and kindness shown by every educator have made an immeasurable impact on our children’s growth and development. Now that our kids have transitioned to school, we reflect with immense gratitude on the years they spent here. Thornbury World Of Learning has been an extension of our family, and we can’t thank the team enough for everything they have done for us. If you’re looking for a childcare centre that prioritises genuine care, stability, and a nurturing environment, we wholeheartedly recommend this centre.

Tamara Molloy

Our daughter attended TWOL for 4 years, since she was 13 months old. We cannot speak highly enough of this child care centre and kinder. Our daughter has loved being in this kind, caring and nurturing environment. The educators are experienced,…. See more Our daughter attended TWOL for 4 years, since she was 13 months old. We cannot speak highly enough of this child care centre and kinder. Our daughter has loved being in this kind, caring and nurturing environment. The educators are experienced, professional and gentle. The centre is well run by the manager who is always available for a chat and staff turn over is rare. The 3 and 4 year kinder programs have been wonderful, providing our daughter with the skills she needs to start primary school confidently. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Emma Field

We've had a great experience in our first year of sending our child to Thornbury World of Learning. The educators and managers are wonderful, very caring and attentive, and our daughter has become very attached to the educators in her room. The…. See more We've had a great experience in our first year of sending our child to Thornbury World of Learning. The educators and managers are wonderful, very caring and attentive, and our daughter has become very attached to the educators in her room. The centre itself has a great atmosphere – our daughter loves attending and seems to have a great time when she's there, and there are always fun and varied activities for her to get involved in. It's so reassuring to know that our daughter is happy and well looked after while we're at work!

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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.

World of Learning 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, World of Learning 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.