Condon Kids Early Learning Centre is our Regional State Winner for Queensland, with an Outstanding KindiCare Rating of 9.6, and this amazing centre in the far north is deeply influenced by the Reggio Emilia educational approach.

Their play-based curriculum is based on the Reggio Emilia principles of respect, responsibility and community to offer each child a quality education and exceptional care. Centre Manager, Arielle Russoniello, says, “We pride ourselves on offering beautiful and engaging learning environments with open-ended resources that create endless learning possibilities. We believe that it is through play that children develop the foundations for further learning, including understanding who they are, and where they fit within the world. We are committed to a holistic educational approach to empower children’s learning.” In support of all this, Condon Kids offers a really special environment. They have an Atelier creative studio, Cenare cooking studio, outdoor water park, and even some tunnels that join the studios together! Arielle explains that, “The Atelier studio is a unique environment where children can express their artistic abilities through different art mediums.” This space hosts an additional educator called an Atelierista, who fosters a love of art and creativity. Arielle says, “Our Atelierista works directly with the children, individually and in small groups, to provide a nurturing environment that expresses the children’s voices through art.” Meanwhile, the Cenare mimics a homely kitchen environment, and it’s a place where children share meals with their peers, prepared daily by the centre’s dedicated Chef. Arielle says, “In the Cenare, the children also observe and participate in our Mini Chefs program, and get inspired by watching our Chef prepare meals daily.” And let’s not forget the tunnels! All the learning studios at Condon Kids are joined together by tunnels to encourage family grouping, and Arielle says, “They are a unique feature of our centre that enable free flow learning and mixed-age socialisation to happen throughout the day.” The water park outside is another unique feature of the centre, and this splashy space becomes the heart of Condon Kids during the warmer months, as children cool off, have fun, and explore water safety. Whether they are inside or out, little learners are supported by a long-standing and diverse team that possesses many different interests and skills. Arielle says, “Our team is our greatest asset, and our primary focus always remains on the wellbeing of children and their families. Staff view all children through deep respect, seeing them as capable and confident learners, who are active in their own learning journey.” Families see this, and they really respect the great contribution the team makes. In the wider community, Condon Kids is well known for being homely and welcoming, and Arielle says, “Our families regularly compliment us on the engaging experiences and facilities that we provide.” All in all, this centre is a highly deserving winner of its 2023 Regional State KindiCare Excellence Award, and it’s brilliant to see the team’s careful thought and deep commitment being recognised. On a personal level, Arielle feels honoured to lead such an exceptional team of dedicated educators, and we give a big congratulations to them all!