An Excellent Option in VIC

Hints, Tips & Stories
 10 Oct 2024

If you’re looking for a brand-new childcare centre, staffed by a super experienced team, then Goodstart Early Learning Clarinda ticks both boxes.        

BY HEJIRA CONVERY, KINDICARE

OCTOBER 10, 2024

Quality counts when you’re looking for early childhood education and care (ECEC), and although you can tell a lot about a centre by its KindiCare Rating and National Quality Standard Rating, we’re here to share a bit of intel about an unrated centre called Goodstart Early Learning Clarinda 

This Melbourne centre currently has an NR rating from KindiCare and a Provisional rating from its regulatory authority, because it’s brand-new and hasn’t yet been assessed under the National Quality Standard (NQS).  

However, our intel comes into play when we explain that the team from Goodstart Clarinda is the same one that used to do amazing things at Goodstart Clayton 

Goodstart Clayton provided incredible ECEC for more than a decade, and it did something that very few centres ever do – it achieved an Excellent rating from ACECQA, after being rated Exceeding NQS in all seven quality areas.  

This ‘highest-you-can-get’ rating is something any provider would want to hold on to for as long as possible, but because people come first at Goodstart, the provider recognised that larger, more modern, premises were needed.  

Goodstart Clayton has now shut up shop, and as one door closes, another one opens!  

The team has moved from their old digs in Clayton to state-of-the-art premises in Clarinda, and their Excellent approach to ECEC has moved with them.  

Centre Director, Kashmira Bhathena, says, “Leaving behind the Excellent rating from ACECQA is significant, and a bit sad for us, but moving to Goodstart Clarinda allows for the continuation of high-quality education and care.  

“Our team has brought their expertise, strong community relationships, and commitment to fostering a nurturing environment for children.”  

Kashmira says, “We’ll also carry forward the successful practices and programs that contributed to the previous rating, ensuring that the focus remains on providing excellent learning experiences.” 

The new facilities at Goodstart Clarinda definitely support an enhanced ECEC experience.  

The classrooms are spacious, and each learning environment is carefully designed to be age-appropriate, interactive and engaging.  

There are six learning areas all up, and whether a baby is using the dedicated sleep room, or a Kindy kid is exploring digital learning, the facilities are first-rate and the atmosphere amazing!  

Goodstart Clarinda has been architecturally designed to have a modern, yet homely feel, and there’s a great focus on natural elements – particularly in the outdoor areas.  

The children are loving the al fresco water play, sand play and mud play, and there are climbing structures, gardens and sensory areas that also encourage outdoor exploration and creativity. 

All in all, Kashmira explains that, “Our new facilities aim to create a nurturing environment where children can thrive, explore and connect with their peers and families.” 

There are also great opportunities for parents to connect with one another and with educators.  

There’s complimentary tea and coffee in the family lounge, regular updates via Storypark, and a commitment to keep families front-of-mind as the team moves forward.  

Kashmira has several exciting initiatives planned for Goodstart Clarinda’s community, and says, “We will prioritise building strong relationships with families and the community first – ensuring open communication and engagement with our community through events.” 

Community connections were a big part of Goodstart Clayton’s success, and at her new centre, Kashmira is already planning weekly excursions into their vibrant new community.  

And as for their Excellent rating?  

Well, Kashmira and her team are already focused on making their new ECEC offering the very best it can be.  

Kashmira explains that, “As a team, we will continually assess and improve our practices, focusing on professional development for staff, maintaining high-quality standards in our care and education, and fostering a culture of reflection and growth.” 

As part of this, they’re actively encouraging feedback from families and staff, and although an Excellent rating will be their long-term goal, they’re taking things one day at a time.  

The team is focused on creating an inclusive and nurturing environment for everyone in this new-yet-established childcare family, and Kashmira says, “Our overarching aim is to support each child’s individual journey and strengthen our community ties.” 

If all of this sounds great to you, then you’ll be happy to know that Goodstart Clarinda actually has some vacancies! 

There are places available for three- to five-year-olds in the Kindergarten room, and booking a centre tour is easy.  

Simply click the ‘Make Enquiry’ button when you search for Goodstart Early Learning Clarinda using the KindiCare App or Childcare Comparison Website, then get ready for a state-of-the-art early learning experience!