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Goodstart Early Learning Elara - Blackstone Street Centre overview
We are OPEN and looking forward to welcoming you into our newly built centre!
Catering for 121 children, the centre features eight age-based playrooms, a large, purpose-built outdoor playground, and dedicated drop-off/pick-up zones for safe and easy access for families.
Open from 6.30 am – 6.30 pm, 52 weeks per year (except Public Holidays), the centre provides long day care for children from 6 weeks to 6 years and incorporates a dedicated Preschool Program for children from 3 – 5 years, delivered by University Qualified Early Learning Teachers and supported by the expertise of a national network.
Located centrally in Elara, opposite the new Northbourne Public School, and close to Goodstart Elara Harvest St, Goodstart Hassell Grove and Goodstart Oakhurst, we look forward to welcoming you into our new centre.
Fees & Vacancies
Goodstart Early Learning Elara - Blackstone Street Service features
See more (9)Goodstart Early Learning Elara - Blackstone Street service include:
Get to know us
Kindergarten/Preschool Programs
Kindergarten/Preschool Programs
Our high-quality, play based preschool curriculum is delivered by Bachelor qualified Early Childhood Teachers. Our teachers tailor their programs to ensure all children develop the confidence and social and emotional skills needed for a smooth transition to school. Through play, our Early Childhood Teachers facilitate children’s learning of important language, literacy, numeracy and creative skills.
Benefits of Goodstart Kindergarten/Preschool programs:
- Our programs are planned and led by qualified and experienced Early Childhood Teachers, in accordance with the Early Years Learning Framework
- Our programs have the tick of approval, meaning they meet (and exceed) Government guidelines around learning in the year before school
- Strong connections with local schools support our extensive transition to school programs
- We offer greater flexibility and convenience for busy families with longer opening hours, five days a week, 52 weeks of the year.
- We offer 9-hour, 10-hour and all-day sessions.
- Nutritious meals are provided throughout the day, so there’s no need to pack lunch boxes.
Curriculum and programs
Curriculum and programs
The educators at Goodstart Early Learning follow an evidence-based curriculum that aligns with the Early Years Learning Framework. Informed by world-leading research, practices and techniques, the curriculum encourages the children’s natural curiosity and engages them in their learning journey.
As the children move through the different rooms in the centre, the curriculum evolves with them. The educators set goals for the children and celebrate as they reach their milestones. At every stage, the educators are tailoring the curriculum and goals to each child’s individual needs.
The curriculum involves different types of learning experiences and styles. From child-led learning to sessions guided by educators, the children participate in small and large group sessions as well as individual play. Most importantly, the children learn through play, developing social skills, confidence and independence in addition to more formal academic skills.
Play is the order of the day of Goodstart Early Learning and the programs at the centre are grounded in a play-based approach. The educators embed teaching and learning into play experiences, helping the children to make sense of the world around them. This is how the children learn about how things work and develop important foundational relationships and skills.
The primarily child-directed, play-based curriculum ensures that the children are engaged in their learning. They are encouraged to take the lead, developing their negotiation, risk taking, problem solving and social skills. The educators observe the children and help to challenge them by extending their learning and interests.
The educators recognise that every child is unique and that they bring their own needs, interests and strengths with them each day. The program is designed to be flexible to cater to these differing needs, ensuring every child has the opportunity to thrive at Goodstart.
Parent communication and involvement
Parent communication and involvement
Goodstart Early Learning uses the StoryPark app to connect with parents throughout the day. The educators upload photos and stories to the secure app, which parents can access anytime and anywhere to track their child’s progress.
The approach at the centre is very much based around partnership between families and educators. The educators work with the parents and carers to build strong relationships. They develop trust so the children can feel safe and secure while at the centre. Parents are also encouraged to share their insights and feedback with educators to add depth to the relationship.
The educators observe the children every day and tailor the program around their observations. They share these with parents, so they can feel connected to their child’s progress and also provide feedback that will further enhance their child’s learning experience.
Meet the team
Meet the team
Goodstart Early Learning employs qualified and skilled educators who are dedicated to making a difference to the children in their care. The centre employs people who are empathetic and compassionate, with a nurturing disposition and a passion for care. Working collaboratively as a team, the educators display qualities such as positivity, kindness and, most importantly, a desire to help every child thrive.
The educators hold relevant qualifications, including the Kindergarten and Preschool Program teachers who are university qualified. The educators are lifelong learners, participating in regular and ongoing professional development to enhance their skills. They are encouraged to upskill, learning about the latest research and thinking in the sector. They can then bring this knowledge back to the centre to share with their colleagues for the benefit of the children.
Amanda Thorburn
Hello, I am Amanda the Centre Director at Goodstart Elara Blackstone Street.
With over 25 years of experience in the early childhood education industry, I bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to my role as Centre Director. Holding a Bachelor of Teaching specializing in the developmental years from birth to 8 years old, I am deeply committed to providing exceptional care and education for children of all ages.
Since joining Goodstart in 2014, I have dedicated the past decade to fostering a nurturing and inclusive environment Central to my philosophy is the belief that strong connections and relationships form the bedrock of children's growth and well-being. I am proud to lead a team of dedicated professionals who share my passion for creating a safe, secure, and positive space for every child in our care.
As Centre Director, I am committed to offering a tailored and inclusive program that respects each child as an individual. I prioritize safety while also encouraging curiosity and exploration, guided by attachment theory and a deep understanding of the importance of relationships in early childhood development.
Drawing on my own experience as a parent of four, I empathize with the challenges and concerns that families may face when choosing childcare. I consider it a privilege to be entrusted with the care and education of children, and I am always available to listen to the stories and experiences of both families and children.
I am excited to embark on this journey with you and your family, and I eagerly anticipate the opportunity to meet you all soon. Together, we can create a nurturing and supportive environment where every child can thrive and flourish.

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1 Blackstone StreetMarsden Park, NSW, 2765
Centre Reviews
I couldn’t be more thrilled with the care my son receives at this GoodStart Early Learning Centre! The environment is warm, welcoming, and... I couldn’t be more thrilled with the care my son receives at this GoodStart Early Learning Centre! The environment is warm, welcoming, and full of learning opportunities. A huge thank you to his wonderful teachers, Wendy and Rekha from Preschool 2 , who have gone above and beyond to nurture him. They are so patient, kind, and always make sure he’s engaged and happy. It’s reassuring to know my child is in such good hands! it’s a place where my son is growing and learning in the best way possible. My son looks forward to seeing them every day, and I couldn’t ask for better care. Highly recommend to any parent! Read more
The staff are warm, welcoming, and genuinely care about my child's well-being. The caregivers are attentive, patient, and engaging with the children. The staff are... The staff are warm, welcoming, and genuinely care about my child's well-being. The caregivers are attentive, patient, and engaging with the children. The staff are knowledgeable and provide helpful guidance on my child's development. Read more