Enrol Now | Early Childhood Education and Care - 6 weeks to 5 years

Read more about Enrol Now | Early Childhood Education and Care - 6 weeks to 5 years

Parents guide to finding the ideal early learning centre in Brisbane

8th August 2025

Choosing the right childcare centre or kindergarten for your young child is one of the most important decisions you'll make as a parent. In Brisbane's bustling landscape of early childhood education options, finding the perfect fit for your family can feel overwhelming. Whether you're a new parent preparing for your return to work or looking to transition your child to kindergarten, this guide will help you navigate the process with confidence.

Understanding your options with C&K centres in Brisbane

C&K offers a diverse range of early childhood education services to suit different family needs and budgets, including:

Community Kindergarten
C&K’s Government Approved Kindergarten Program is designed for children in the year before school, typically ages four to five. C&K has standalone community kindergartens (also known as sessional kindergarten), with Free Kindy for up to 15 hours a week for eligible age children.

Childcare centres
Provide full-day programs, typically running from 7am to 6pm, making them ideal for busy parents. These centres cater to children from as young as six weeks up to school age, offering structured learning programs alongside flexible care arrangements. The C&K’s Government Approved Kindergarten Program and Free Kindy is integrated into these long day centres.

Kindergarten with Extended Hours
Kindy with Extended Hours can be the perfect option for families wanting the standalone community kindergarten experience, but the shorter hours don't work for their schedule. These kindergartens typically operate between 8am and 6pm and continue throughout the school holidays. More time to play!

Where to start your search

Begin by identifying your specific needs and circumstances. Consider your work schedule, budget, location preferences, and your child's personality and developmental stage. Some children thrive in larger, more structured environments, while others do better in smaller, more intimate settings.

Ready to look? Find a Centre and add in your preferred suburb/postcode to find a centre near you!

Key factors to consider

Location plays a crucial role in your daily routine. Consider not just proximity to your home, but also to your workplace, public transport routes, and other family activities. A centre that's slightly further from home but on your way to work might be more convenient than the closest option.

The quality of care and educational programs should be your top priority. We have been teaching, caring and growing alongside Queensland children for over 100 years. We employ qualified, experienced and passionate early childhood teachers and educators.

Visit potential centres during operating hours to observe the interactions between staff and children. Quality educators should be warm, engaged, and responsive to children's needs. The environment should feel welcoming and stimulating, with age-appropriate resources and adequate supervision.

Practical steps for your search

Start your search early, as our centres often have waiting lists. Some parents begin looking even before their child is born, particularly in highly sought-after areas or for specific age groups where places are limited.

Contact centres directly to arrange visits and ask about availability. Our doors are always open, and we encourage visits to discuss programs, philosophy, and daily routines. Don't hesitate to ask detailed questions about their approach to areas important to your family, such as nutrition, sleep routines, inclusion needs and cultural diversity.

We list our centres most recent assessment rating from Australian Children's Education and Care Quality Authority website. This gives valuable insight into their standards of operation.

We list all fees and inclusions to help families make accurate comparisons and budget appropriately.

Making the final decision

Trust your instincts after visiting centres and meeting the staff. Your child will spend significant time in this environment, so it's important that you feel comfortable with the people caring for them and confident in the centre's approach.

Consider starting with shorter sessions or visits to help your child transition gradually. Many centres offer 'Stay and Play', which can be particularly helpful for children who are new to group care or naturally more cautious in new situations.

Remember that the perfect centre for one family might not suit another. Focus on finding the right match for your child's personality, your family's values, and your practical needs.

Getting the most from your childcare experience

Once you've chosen a centre, building strong relationships with the educators enhances your child's experience. Regular communication about your child's development, interests, and any concerns helps create consistency between home and care environments.

Stay involved in your child's early learning journey by participating in centre events, reading daily reports, and discussing their experiences at home. This engagement not only supports your child's development but also helps you feel connected to this important part of their life.

Finding quality childcare in Brisbane requires research, patience, and careful consideration of your family's unique needs. Take the time to explore your options thoroughly, visit multiple centres, and ask plenty of questions. We strive to be an extension of your home, supporting your child's growth and development while giving your family confidence and peace of mind.

C&K's variety of early learning options in Brisbane means there's likely a perfect fit for your family, and we're here to help. Contact us via our online form or send us a message on social media to chat more about your needs.

Meet Edgar: The Puppet who's taking over hearts (and classrooms!)

1st August 2025

Link copied! 😊

🎉 Drumroll please... We're absolutely thrilled to celebrate Natalie McDougall and her superstar sidekick, Edgar from C&K Slade Point, who just snagged the Winc Education Playful Pedagogy Award at the 2025 C&K Awards!

Who is Edgar, you ask?

Edgar isn't just any ordinary puppet – he's become the ultimate classroom superhero! This loveable little character has completely stolen the hearts of children and educators alike, teaching the kindy friends the magical art of self-regulation while sparking creativity left, right, and centre. ✨

What started as a simple teaching tool has blossomed into something absolutely extraordinary. Edgar has become the kindy's unofficial mascot, helping little ones find their calm, boost their engagement, and look forward to coming to kindy each day.

Edgar's popularity led to some pretty amazing innovations:

Edgar's Kindness Wall 💝
Children document their acts of kindness on adorable heart-shaped notes, creating a beautiful display of all the wonderful things happening in their community.

Edgar's Letterbox 📮
Children can pop drawings, notes, and messages for Edgar into his very own letterbox. Imagine the excitement when Edgar "responds" to their thoughtful letters!

From kindy to primary – Edgar's big school adventure!

Here's where the story gets even more magical. When prep students at nearby Slade Point Primary School were finding the transition to "big school" a bit tricky, guess who came to the rescue? That's right – Edgar!

His impact was so incredible that now every prep, grade 1, and grade 2 classroom is getting its very own Edgar puppet. We're talking about a full-scale Edgar invasion – and everyone couldn't be happier about it!

The ripple effect

Edgar's success has created something beautiful – a genuine partnership between the kindergarten and primary school. Primary teachers now visit the kindy weekly to soak up all those creative, play-based teaching practices that make Edgar (and learning) so magical.

Who knew one little puppet could create such big waves of positive change? Edgar proves that sometimes the most powerful teaching tools come in the smallest, fluffiest packages! 🌟

Book a tour and come and visit Edgar for yourself; he can't wait to meet your family!

Celebrating Joy, Culture and Creativity in the North at 2025 C&K Conference

31st July 2025

Link copied! 😊

C&K is proud to announce the winners and finalists of our 2025 Awards, recognising the outstanding educators, teams, and centres who bring high-quality early childhood education and care to life across Queensland every day.

The winners were announced at the 2025 C&K Gala Awards Night, held on Friday, 25 July at the Royal International Convention Centre in Brisbane. Presented by Modern Teaching Aids, the Awards Night was a highlight of the 2025 C&K Conference. Proudly supported by Winc Education, the conference brought together over 765 early childhood professionals, researchers, and sector leaders over the two days to reflect on this year’s theme: Joy.

This year’s award recipients and finalists embody the spirit of Joy, bringing it to life in their practice, their relationships with children and families, and their commitment to creating vibrant, inclusive learning communities.

C&K Kirwan Community Kindergarten won the HESTA Reconciliation in Action Award for their deep and ongoing engagement with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander families. Their practice is grounded in trust, respect, and shared responsibility, built through sustained collaboration with families and Elders. From embedding culture in everyday experiences to creating a welcoming, culturally safe environment, C&K Kirwan exemplifies reconciliation in action through relationships that uplift and empower bringing joy to the centre and wider community.

Pictured above: 2025 HESTA Reconciliation in Action Award Winners: Danielle Davies (Assistant Educator and Kylie Krawczyk (Centre Director/Teacher) (C&K Kirwan Community Kindergarten) with HESTA representative Rob Paul.

Kate Hinschen, Centre Director and Teacher of C&K Ingham Community Kindergarten was personally selected by C&K CEO Dr Sandra Cheeseman as the recipient of the C&K CEO Award. This award recognises Kate, for her exceptional leadership during record rainfall and flooding in February 2025. When floods cut off power and isolated the centre, Kate’s calm, decisive actions ensured the safety of children and staff. Thanks to Kate’s leadership, Ingham’s community and spirit remain strong and supported as the children have settled into their temporary place while their centre is being rebuilt.

Pictured above: C&K CEO Dr Sandra Cheeseman with C&K CEO Award Winner, Kate Hinschen (Centre Director/Teacher of C&K Ingham Community Kindergarten)

Finalists from the region included:

Atherton Community Kindergarten – Winc Education Playful Pedagogy Award (Team)
Yungaburra Community Kindergarten Assoc Inc. – HESTA Reconciliation in Action Award (Team)

Both centres were recognised for their joyful, inclusive practices. Atherton for sparking creativity through playful pedagogy, and Yungaburra for embedding First Nations perspectives in meaningful ways.

“At C&K, we know that high-quality early childhood education and care doesn’t happen by accident. It’s a deliberate choice and a deeply relational practice,” said C&K CEO Dr Sandra Cheeseman. “These awards are about recognising the educators, teams and services who make that choice every day and go further – to listen, to lead, to partner with families and communities, and to ensure every child feels safe, seen, and supported to flourish.”

2025 C&K Award Winners

Department of Education Inspiring Impact Award – Lynette Harding, C&K Coomera Community Kindergarten
Winc Education Curious Mindset Award – Rebecca Walsh, Bayview Kindergarten
Winc Education Playful Pedagogy Award – Natalie McDougall, C&K Slade Point Community Kindergarten
HESTA Reconciliation in Action Award – C&K Kirwan Community Kindergarten
C&K CEO Award – Kate Hinschen, C&K Ingham Community Kindergarten
MTA Emeritus Professor Mary Mahoney Award for Excellence in Early Childhood Education and Care – C&K Moranbah Community Kindergarten

Pictured above: 2025 C&K Award Winners: Lynette Harding, Madison Pease, Stephanie Oliver, Ashleigh Brown, Rebecca Walsh, C&K CEO Dr Sandra Cheeseman, Kylie Krawczyk, Danielle Davies, Kate Hinschen & Natalie McDougall.

For media inquiries, please contact: media@candk.asn.au

C&K Coomera’s Lynette Harding wins at 2025 C&K Awards

31st July 2025

Link copied! 😊

As part of the 2025 C&K Awards, Lynette Harding from C&K Coomera Community Kindergarten was honoured with the Department of Education Inspiring Impact Award, recognising her decades-long commitment to reconciliation, inclusion, and cultural leadership.

Lynette brings a lifetime of early childhood expertise and a personal commitment to creating culturally rich, inclusive learning environments. Since joining C&K Coomera in 2012, she has led the service’s Reconciliation Action Plan, generously mentored educators, and forged strong relationships with local Elders and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander organisations.

Her practice centres the question: “What is our commitment to reconciliation?” It’s a value she returns to again and again, both in her own reflections and in leading the team.

“The way Lynette promotes cultural competence creates a joyous celebration that includes everyone,” her team shared in the nomination. “She empowers children and colleagues to share their stories, their strengths, and their culture.”

Lynette also mentors fellow educators through their studies and registration, inspiring others to join her on what she describes as “riding the wave” of inclusive practice; starting where you are, growing in confidence, and never losing sight of community.

Pictured above: The Hon John-Paul Langbroek, Minister for Education and the Arts with Department of Education Inspiring Impact Award Winner, Lynette Harding, Centre Director of C&K Coomera Community Kindergarten.

2025 C&K Award Winners

Department of Education Inspiring Impact Award – Lynette Harding, C&K Coomera Community Kindergarten
Winc Education Curious Mindset Award – Rebecca Walsh, Bayview Kindergarten
Winc Education Playful Pedagogy Award – Natalie McDougall, C&K Slade Point Community Kindergarten
HESTA Reconciliation in Action Award – C&K Kirwan Community Kindergarten
C&K CEO Award – Kate Hinschen, C&K Ingham Community Kindergarten
MTA Emeritus Professor Mary Mahoney Award for Excellence in Early Childhood Education and Care – C&K Moranbah Community Kindergarten

For media inquiries, please contact: media@candk.asn.au

Central Queensland Centres Shine at 2025 C&K Awards

31st July 2025

Link copied! 😊

This year’s award recipients embody the spirit of Joy, bringing it to life in their practice, their relationships with children and families, and their commitment to creating vibrant, inclusive learning communities.

C&K Moranbah Community Kindergarten and Preschool was the winner of the MTA Emeritus Professor Mary Mahoney Award for Excellence in Early Childhood Education and Care and a finalist for the Winc Education Curious Mindset Award. The prestigious Mary Mahoney Award was presented to C&K Moranbah for their transformative practice, empowering children to advocate for the redesign of their outdoor play space and present their ideas directly to Isaac Regional Council Mayor Kelly Vea Vea, fostering joy not only in the children who were able to present their ideas but the children who will get to enjoy the play space in years to come.

Mayor Kelly Vea Vea said the recognition of C&K Moranbah Community Kindergarten was a proud moment for the whole community.

“A huge congratulations to the amazing educators at C&K Moranbah for creating a space where children feel seen, heard and valued. This award is a credit to your passion, care and belief in the power of little voices...Their confidence and creativity are a reflection of the incredible support and encouragement they receive from their educators every day.” Mayor Vea Vea said, “When we listen to children and back the people who guide them, we build stronger communities. This win is something the whole of Moranbah can celebrate.”

The team from C&K Moranbah with their trophy

Pictured above: (L-R) Emma-Jane Molan (MTA), Winners of the 2025 MTA Emeritus Professor Mary Mahoney Award for Excellence in Early Childhood Education and Care: C&K Moranbah Community Kindergarten Team: Ashleigh Brown (Educator), Stephanie Oliver (Educator), Madison Pease (Centre Director), and Tamara McMeeken (MTA).

C&K Slade Point Community Kindergarten in Mackay also shone at this year’s awards, with Natalie McDougall winning the Playful Pedagogy Award for her innovative use of a puppet named Edgar to support children’s emotional regulation, storytelling, and transition to school. Edgar has become a beloved member of the teaching team, helping to create a joyful, inclusive environment that fosters creativity and connection. The Slade Point Community Kindergarten team was also named a finalist for the Department of Education Inspiring Impact award for their Breakfast Club initiative. The program addressed a critical need in their community, improving children’s outcomes and is now supported by a local partnership with Woolworths Andergrove.

Pictured above: Winc Education Playful Pedagogy Award Winner: Richard Mourant (Winc Education Representative) with Natalie McDougall (Centre Director, C&K Slade Point Community Kindergarten)

C&K The Range Community Kindergarten in Rockhampton was named a finalist for the Winc Education Curious Mindset Award for their work in strengthening children’s media literacy through a range of age-appropriate activities, recognising media as a modern form of storytelling that connects children to community, culture, and self.

2025 C&K Award Winners

Department of Education Inspiring Impact Award – Lynette Harding, C&K Coomera Community Kindergarten
Winc Education Curious Mindset Award – Rebecca Walsh, Bayview Kindergarten
Winc Education Playful Pedagogy Award – Natalie McDougall, C&K Slade Point Community Kindergarten
HESTA Reconciliation in Action Award – C&K Kirwan Community Kindergarten
C&K CEO Award – Kate Hinschen, C&K Ingham Community Kindergarten
MTA Emeritus Professor Mary Mahoney Award for Excellence in Early Childhood Education and Care – C&K Moranbah Community Kindergarten

For media inquiries, please contact: media@candk.asn.au

Brisbane Centres Recognised in 2025 C&K Awards

31st July 2025

Link copied! 😊

C&K Bayview Kindergarten and Preschool Director and Educational Leader Rebecca Walsh has been named the winner of the 2025 Winc Education Curious Mindset Award, in recognition of her outstanding leadership in environmental education and global citizenship, underpinned by deep listening and child-led inquiry.

Rebecca has embedded sustainability and care for Country into Bayview’s program since 2014, using children’s curiosity and community connections to drive real-world impact. From foreshore excursions and Ghost Net-inspired art to anti-littering campaigns and advocacy with local council, her work empowers children as environmental citizens. Her leadership is grounded in cultural responsiveness, critical reflection, and deep listening to children, First Nations voices, and the environment itself.

“Through engagement in their surrounds and community, children will discover, connect with and act responsibly in their environments,” Rebecca said. “That’s what drives our work.”

The centre's work now focuses on embedding the Global Citizenship elements of caring for Country and ethical decision-making, with children joyfully leading the way.

Pictured above: 2025 Winc Education Curious Mindset Award, Winc Representative Kim Willis & Rebecca Walsh from Bayview Kindergarten Association.

Other Brisbane-based finalists included:

C&K Ascot Community Kindergarten – Department of Education Inspiring Impact Award (Team)
Inala Community Kindergarten Inc. – Winc Education Playful Pedagogy Award (Team)

These centres were recognised for their outstanding commitment to children, families, and community partnership, and for delivering early childhood education and care with joy, inclusivity, expertise, creativity, and intention.

2025 C&K Award Winners

Department of Education Inspiring Impact Award – Lynette Harding, C&K Coomera Community Kindergarten
Winc Education Curious Mindset Award – Rebecca Walsh, Bayview Kindergarten
Winc Education Playful Pedagogy Award – Natalie McDougall, C&K Slade Point Community Kindergarten
HESTA Reconciliation in Action Award – C&K Kirwan Community Kindergarten
C&K CEO Award – Kate Hinschen, C&K Ingham Community Kindergarten
MTA Emeritus Professor Mary Mahoney Award for Excellence in Early Childhood Education and Care – C&K Moranbah Community Kindergarten

For media inquiries, please contact: media@candk.asn.au