A Commitment to Excellence
At Woodleigh, we take pride in achieving and maintaining an ‘Exceeding’ rating in all seven quality standard areas set by the National Quality Framework (NQF) at both of our Early Learning Centres, Minimbah and Penbank. The NQF provides a national approach to regulation, assessment and quality improvement for all services in Australia and this rating reflects our dedication to offering the highest standards of early childhood education.
Woodleigh's Early Childhood Centre (ECC) is our youngest learners' home away from home.
ECC is a warm and welcoming environment where children are encouraged to be themselves, be comfortable with friends and teachers and explore the world at their own pace.
In these early years, a sense of belonging matters deeply. At Woodleigh, we take time to truly know each child — their interests, listening to their ideas and always responding with care. Through play, connection and shared experiences, children feel secure, confident and free to explore, laying the groundwork for a strong sense of self.
Feeling Seen and Strong
'For our youngest learners, there is a great sense of security in the familiar rhythms of home – siblings, songs, stories and, most of all, parents. Leaving that sanctuary for the first time is a big step. At Woodleigh, we make those first days matter by prioritising consistency, predictability and connection.'
Lisa Coxon, Director of Early Childhood, shares how Woodleigh’s ECC prioritises connection, belonging and emotional strength. The article highlights why feeling truly seen is foundational to children’s wellbeing and growth.
What does a day in the life of ECC at Woodleigh look like?
It looks like mornings that begin with a warm welcome from familiar faces, time to settle in with friends and gentle routines that help everyone transition into a day away from home.
From there, learning begins through purposeful play and inquiry, maybe outdoors exploring bushland and creek spaces, building cubbies, observing insects or working together to solve problems from games and inventiveness. Indoors, comfortable learning spaces mean drawing, constructing, reading, experimenting with bits and pieces, or continuing investigations sparked earlier in their ECC week. Educators move alongside, asking and answering all the questions, documenting learning and building on ideas in collaborative and responsive ways.
Independence, collaboration and joy, nurturing confident learners who feel known, capable and excited about what tomorrow might bring.
Life in the ECC Lane
Our approach to teaching and learning is inspired by the Reggio Emilia educational philosophy, one where learning areas are interconnected. This is strategically informed by the five learning outcomes of the Victorian Early Years Learning and Development Framework (VEYLDF) and aligns seamlessly with our inquiry-based curriculum framework of the International Baccaleurate (IB) Primary Years Programme (PYP), ensuring a holistic and integrated educational experience.
Make an Informed Choice
Choosing the right care for your family might feel overwhelming. We appreciate the complexity of this decision and offer comprehensive support to help you make an informed choice for your child and your family.
We invite you to ask questions and visit our centre during a typical day at the next Campus Tour. This is an opportunity to meet our dedicated staff and experience our unique approach to early childhood education. Most importantly, we encourage you to trust your instincts - no one knows your child better than you do.
Connection to Nature and Country
Perhaps the most unique aspect of our Early Learning offerings is our commitment to embedding cultural understandings. Woodleigh pioneered the development of natural outdoor curriculums in Australia and stands behind its benefits in developing students' problem-solving, communication and collaborative decision-making skills through a regenerative lens. Our youngest learners spend one day per week almost entirely outdoors, exploring natural spaces and embracing their environment.
Identity and Independence
We provide a clear but flexible framework within a predictable session structure, fostering a sense of security and routine that reflects the home. Within this framework, children have the freedom to explore and initiate their own ideas within a safe and supportive environment. Our dedicated teachers facilitate a range of options, empowering children to build a deep understanding of themselves, others and the world around them.
Social and Emotional Learning
Recognising that every child learns differently and prioritises their senses uniquely, our goal is to nurture an environment where children can build meaningful relationships and a profound understanding of their world. This is embedded within Woodleigh’s Compassionate Systems Framework and learning with and from others is a vital part of this journey, fostering a community of collaboration and growth. Childhood is a unique and valuable rite of passage in one’s life, setting the foundation for future learning. We are passionate about providing children with a safe, nurturing, warm and happy environment in which they can thrive.
Continuity of Care
An after-school care service is available for children before school from 7 - 8:45 am and after school from 3 - 6 pm each afternoon at each campus. Our Patch is the service provider.
So, What Else?
ECC is only the beginning. Discover how curiosity, creativity and independent thinking are nurtured at Woodleigh, as children move into the next phase of their learning journey.
Junior Campuses
NASA's Divergent Thinking Test was developed to identify the most innovative minds in preparation for the 1969 moon landing. The same test was applied to 5-year-old children, and the results are impressive; they are astounding.
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Get to know us better at
Playgroup
Minimbah's Playgroup is designed for 2-year-olds and provides an open, friendly atmosphere to encourage active participation and communication with the child and their family. It's a great way to get to know us better and learn more about our approach to Kindergarten before you make a commitment.