We’re excited to see Goodstart Early Learning Kings Meadows collecting a KindiCare Excellence Award in 2024.  

This Launceston centre is our State Winner in Tasmania, with an Outstanding KindiCare Rating of 9.9, and one of the best things about Goodstart Kings Meadows is its commitment to outdoor play. 

Whether the sun is shining or that southern breeze is blowing, the children are given lots of opportunities to explore, discover and enjoy the centre’s outdoor spaces. 

Centre Director, Anika Lockhart explains that, “At Goodstart Kings Meadows, we have a unique indoor and outdoor curriculum that encourages children to explore the outdoors, fostering a deep connection to the environment.  

“Our outdoor learning spaces are designed to inspire curiosity and creativity, allowing children to engage with nature in meaningful ways.”  

The children absolutely love the climbing equipment, swings and nature garden – which are beneficial for body and soul – and everyone is very excited about the vegetable garden that’s coming soon! 

This will include Indigenous plants, like lemon myrtle, as well as those centre staples like mint, parsley and zucchini; and all ages will be involved in the veggie patch.  

There are gardening tools and watering cans at the ready, and Anika says, “This hands-on project will teach children about gardening, sustainability, and the importance of native flora, while also allowing them to enjoy produce they have grown themselves.” 

Coming together as a green-thumbed group will build on the great collaborative spirit that already underpins Goodstart Kings Meadows. 

This childcare centre has an amazing community, which is actively fostered by the diverse and dedicated team.  

Anika says, “Our team brings together a wealth of experiences and perspectives that enrich the learning environment.  

“We emphasise collaboration, both among our educators and with families, creating a supportive network that helps every child thrive.”  

The team is putting together a ‘family wall’, where people can pin their business cards and make connections; and whether a parent has a small business or a big career, they feel the centre’s strong sense of community from the moment they first visit. 

The team does a lot to ensure that every parent feels comfortable at the centre and involved in their little one’s learning. 

There’s a shared vision for each child’s growth and development, which is inclusive and culturally responsive, and families love the open communication and regular updates they get from the team. 

They also really appreciate the centre’s commitment to social-emotional development.  

The Goodstart Kings Meadows team prioritises children’s happiness and engagement, and they’re always striving to help under-fives feel valued, supported, confident and well.  

Each child’s unique interests and individual capabilities are nurtured to create a real sense of belonging. 

And mindfulness practices, through dedicated emotional regulation spaces, are woven into the daily routines to help children build resilience and empathy.  

There’s also no rush to finish activities or race towards developmental milestones at this centre. 

The children are given time to learn through play, with a focus on curiosity, creativity and kindness; and all in all, Goodstart Kings Meadows is a beautiful place to be.   

The connections in this childcare community are genuine, the environment is inspiring, and whether a day is sunny or grey, there’s so much to smile about at Tasmania’s top performing early learning centre!  

 

Learn more about Goodstart Early Learning Kings Meadows 

Information correct as at 1 July 2024