Cooinda Early Learning Centre

At Cooinda, meaning "happy place," we are dedicated to creating a joyful environment where children, families, educators, and the broader community feel a strong sense of belonging and connection. Situated on the traditional lands of the Wurundjeri people, we acknowledge and respect their enduring cultural, spiritual, and historical ties to this land. We honour their elders, past and present, and commit to fostering an inclusive and culturally aware community.
We celebrate the rich tapestry of cultural histories within our community. By embracing and integrating diverse cultural perspectives, we enrich our educational programs and foster an environment where all children and families feel acknowledged and valued. Through inclusive practices, we aim to cultivate a sense of belonging and respect for all cultures, ensuring that every child's heritage is honoured and celebrated.
In alignment with the Child Safe Standards, we uphold the rights of every child to be safe, respected, and empowered. Our policies and practices are designed to prevent and respond to abuse, ensuring that children are informed about their rights and can participate in decisions affecting them. We are committed to continuous improvement, regularly reviewing our practices to maintain a safe and supportive environment for all children.
Our approach centres on the belief that children are competent, curious, and capable learners. By focusing on play-based experiences, we support each child's individual needs, interests, and developmental stages, ensuring that every child feels valued and understood. Guided by the principles of the Early Years Learning Framework, our educators engage in an ongoing cycle of planning, observing, and reflecting to create responsive and enriching learning experiences.
We prioritise meaningful interactions between educators and children, recognising that these relationships are essential for fostering a love of learning. While digital tools can supplement learning, we intentionally choose not to use programming platforms, as we believe they can detract from the vital face-to-face engagements that support children's social, emotional, and cognitive development.
At Cooinda, we believe that by nurturing strong partnerships with families and the community, we create a supportive and enriching environment where every child can thrive and reach their full potential. We actively engage with the local community, fostering inclusivity and ensuring that all individuals, regardless of background or ability, feel welcomed and valued.
We are committed to environmental sustainability, integrating nature into our curriculum and promoting practices such as recycling, water conservation, and the use of natural materials. Our centre's tranquil parkland setting provides an ideal backdrop for children to explore and connect with the natural world.
At Cooinda Early Learning Centre, we collaborate with families to ensure that each child receives nutritious meals tailored to their individual dietary requirements, including allergies and cultural preferences. Prior to enrolment, we gather comprehensive information about each child's needs, which is documented and shared with all relevant staff to ensure consistent and informed care. We work closely with families to develop individualized care plans, which may include emergency procedures and the use of allergy management tools such as EpiPens. Our menus are thoughtfully planned to provide balanced, nutritious meals that cater to the diverse needs of our children, promoting healthy eating habits and positive mealtime experiences.
Our philosophy is anchored in the National Quality Framework (NQF), which is underpinned by the Education and Care Services National Law Act 2010 and the Education and Care Services National Regulations 2018. These legislative instruments establish the National Quality Standards and the Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF): Belonging, Being & Becoming. The EYLF outlines principles and practices that support a holistic approach to children's learning and development, fostering a sense of identity, wellbeing, and belonging. By adhering to these frameworks, we ensure that our educational programs are of the highest quality, responsive to the needs of each child, and aligned with national standards.
Honouring Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Cultures
At Cooinda Early Learning Centre, we are committed to fostering a deep respect and understanding of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures. We aim to create a positive awareness of Indigenous heritage within our children's programs through:
•    Learning Activities: Engaging children in activities such as storytelling, music, dance, art, and craft that reflect Indigenous cultures and traditions.
•    Resources: Utilising educational materials sourced from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander organisations, including the Victorian Aboriginal Child Care Agency (VACCA), the Victorian Aboriginal Education Association Inc. (VAEAI), and SNAICC – National Voice for our Children, to ensure authenticity and cultural relevance.
•    Community Engagement: Building respectful relationships and networks with local Indigenous community Elders and service providers, ensuring that our programs are informed by cultural knowledge and perspectives.
•    Acknowledgement of Country: Proudly displaying signage at our facility that acknowledges the Wurundjeri people as the traditional custodians of the land on which our centre is situated, recognising their enduring connection to this Country.
We recognise that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures are diverse and dynamic. Therefore, we are committed to continuously learning and reflecting on our practices to ensure they are respectful, inclusive, and reflective of the rich cultural heritage of the First Peoples of Australia.