Early Learning
Learning in ELC
Our ELC students use their natural curiosity to learn and solve problems with others through a play-based curriculum.
Donvale Transition Information
In an exciting development taking place in 2028, all Junior School students will be based at our Kew campus. This significant decision to bring students from our Junior School Donvale and Kew campuses together will allow us to strengthen academic and wellbeing programs, align pastoral care and provide daily access to a broad range of specialist learning areas and co-curricular opportunities.
This is an exciting prospect for new families as we will continue to welcome any new applications for 2026 and 2027 entry to our Donvale campus, from three-year-old children to Year 6 students. Places will continue to be offered in line with our enrolment caps. Transfer of students to our Kew campus in 2028 is guaranteed.
We are excited about the future for Carey as we unify on one site. We encourage prospective families to embark on this journey with us.
More information about this transition is available here or you can contact us at contact@carey.com.au or phone +61 3 9816 1000.
At Carey Baptist Grammar School, we believe all children in our Early Learning Centre (ELC) program should develop a positive view of themselves as a learner and have the confidence to thrive when they start school.
Our highly skilled, qualified ELC educators provide exciting and varied learning experiences that set the foundations for each child’s educational journey.
Learning program
We encourage our ELC students to use their natural curiosity to learn and solve problems with others through a play-based curriculum. This helps them attach meaning to the world and explore their interests, while developing vital social skills.
We value the strong relationships we have between our staff, parents and students. We build trust and connection with families through regular meetings and by inviting parents to participate in our programs.
Our ELCs are purpose-built areas located within our school campuses. This means our ELC program can access the School’s extensive range of facilities for specialist classes, activities and events. When ELC students become familiar with the rest of the School, they grow to be excited and enthusiastic about their future years at Carey.
Our Director of Early Learning – Donvale campus, Anne Fahey, and Early Childhood Teacher – Kew campus, Robyn Croucher, talk Carey's Early Learning Centre program philosophy.
Specialist subjects
Music
Music can influence a child’s development in many ways and is an important part of our ELC program. Students learn using voice, percussion, movement and drama suited to their educational needs at each development stage.
Art
Our exceptionally well-resourced art studios allow our students to experiment with a range of media. This gives children the freedom to use their imagination and express themselves creatively.
Library
Our ELC students regularly visit the Junior School Library on their campus. We actively encourage children’s love of reading and storytelling. We arrange many special events and visits from authors and illustrators to bring literature to life.
Extended Care
ELC – Donvale campus
After-school care is available until 6.00pm each evening for Donvale ELC students in the four-year-old group. This is provided by the external after-school care program OSHClub.
Bookings can be made on either a permanent or casual basis.
ELC – Kew campus
Both morning and afternoon extended care is available to all ELC children at Kew. Morning care is offered in-house from 7.45 to 8.30am. Afternoon care is available from 3.15 to 5.00pm with the external after-school care program OSHClub.
