Inspire Parent Handbook
Welcome To Inspire Early Learning Journey
Welcome to Inspire Early Learning Journey | Our Parent Handbook contains important information you will need to be aware of whilst your child is in attendance at Inspire Early Learning Journey.
We have an open-door policy. You and your family are welcome to visit our Campus at any time. Montessori observation is based on an appointment to prevent program disruptions.
1. 🌳 Mission & Philosophy.
1.1 Children.
Assist children in developing important life skills such as the ability to think, question and validate their curiosity about the world.
Allow children to make discoveries and problem solve while pursing subjects and topics that are relevant and meaningful to their lives.
Children are considered competent and capable members of the learning community.
Each child has a right to be actively involved in activities and projects that follow their interests, engage their imaginations and peak their natural curiosity.
1.2 Families.
Provide a safe, caring and home-like environment for young children in which parents can feel confident and comfortable with the care of their children when they are away.
Develop strong positive relationships with families, with the goal of working together to meet the needs of individual children.
Parents are invited and strongly encouraged to be part of our classroom to share skills, talent, traditions and/or lead or be part of a classroom project.
1.3 Educators.
Provide a safe, respectful and comfortable work environment for all educators.
Educators are provided with reasonable non-contact times for programming and rotating rosters.
Each member of our teaching team is valued and respected for their individual talents and areas of excellence, and these strengths are utilised fully as we plan engaging and meaningful learning experiences in our Montessori classrooms.
Collaboration, open communication and mutual respect are important elements of our teaching-team dynamics.
All teaching staff members are considered dedicated professionals in the field of early childhood education.
Regular meeting, training and professional development are provided for all staff to up skill their knowledge which will reflect their teaching quality and implementation.
1.4 Programs.
Provide the highest quality early-childhood education program for children ages 6 months to 6 years using principles of the Montessori philosophy within our Inspire Campus.
Consistently reflect on our current practice in order to improve and always receive all inputs and suggestions from each other, management, families and community.
1.5 Montessori Curriculum.
Our Montessori division embraces the five Montessori learning areas, complementing the Australian Early Years Learning Framework. The Montessori approach focuses on the holistic development of each child — nurturing independence, concentration, and a love of learning. Through engaging with Maria Montessori’s principles and our theme-based learning, children become confident, capable, and ready for the challenges of primary school.
Each Montessori classroom provides:
Mixed-age groups (3–6 years)
Uninterrupted work cycles of up to three hours
High-quality Montessori materials displayed with order and purpose
Montessori-trained leaders or qualified educators working toward recognised Montessori qualifications
1.6 Early Years Learning Framework (Belonging, Being, Becoming).
The Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF) underpins all programs at Inspire Early Learning Journey. Fundamental to the framework is a view of children’s lives as characterised by belonging, being, and becoming — reflecting the relationships, identities, and growth that shape early learning.
Belonging - Children first belong to family, culture, and community. Belonging shapes identity, connection, and a sense of place in the world.
Being - Childhood is a time to experience the present moment — to explore, connect, and make meaning of the world through relationships and play.
Becoming - Children’s knowledge, skills, and identities evolve rapidly. Becoming represents this journey of change and participation as they grow and engage with society.
The EYLF learning outcomes guide our curriculum and practice:
Children have a strong sense of identity.
Children are connected with and contribute to their world.
Children have a strong sense of wellbeing.
Children are confident and involved learners.
Children are effective communicators.
1.7 Sustainability.
At Inspire Early Learning Journey, sustainability is embedded in everything we do — from daily practices to the values we model for children. We believe in nurturing respect for the environment and empowering children to understand their ability to make a difference.
Our approach includes:
Encouraging recycling, energy conservation, and water awareness
Embedding sustainable habits into routines and projects
Supporting children to participate in hands-on environmental activities
Fostering curiosity about nature and our role in protecting it
By promoting sustainable practice, we empower children to become environmentally responsible and compassionate citizens of the future.
2. ⚖️ Governance & Compliance.
2.1 Regulatory Authorities.
Our Campus complies with the National Quality Framework (NQF) including the National Quality Standard (NQS), the Early Years Learning Framework (or other Approved Framework) and the National Regulations (Education and Care Services National Regulations).
Our Campus is regulated by the new national body for early education and care – the Australian Children’s Education and Care Quality Authority (ACECQA) as well as the state licensing department in our State/Territory. To contact our Regulatory Authority, please refer to the contact details below:
Central Enquiries Line
📍 Address: GPO Box 4367 Melbourne, Vic 3001
📱 Phone: 1300 307 415
📧 Email: [email protected]
Northern Metropolitan
📍 Address: Level 2, 189 Urquhart Street Coburg VIC 3058 (Locked Bag 2001, Coburg, VIC 3058)
📱 Phone: 03 7005 1989
📧 Email: [email protected]
Loddon Mallee
📍 Address: 7-15 McLaren Street Bendigo Vic 3550 (PO Box 442 Bendigo Vic 3552)
📱 Phone: 03 4433 7502
📧 Email: [email protected]
Gippsland
📍 Address: Level 4, 295 Springvale Road Glen Waverley Vic 3150
📱 Phone: 03 8904 2500
📧 Email: [email protected]
Southern Metropolitan
📍 Address: Level 5, 165 - 169 Thomas Street Dandenong Vic 3175 (PO Box 5 Dandenong Vic 3175)
📱 Phone: 03 8904 2500
📧 Email: [email protected]
Eastern Metropolitan
📍 Address: Level 4, 295 Springvale Road Glen Waverley Vic 3150
📱 Phone: 03 5771 4471
📧 Email: [email protected]
Hume
📍 Address: 150 Bridge Street East Benalla Vic 3671 (PO Box 403 Benalla Vic 3671)
📱 Phone: 03 5771 4471
📧 Email: [email protected]
Barwon South West
📍 Address: 75 High Street Belmont Vic 3216
📱 Phone: 03 5215 5136
📧 Email: [email protected]
Western Metropolitan
📍 Address: 900/1 McNab Avenue Footscray Vic 3011
📱 Phone: 03 7005 1801
📧 Email: [email protected]
Grampians
📍 Address: 109 Armstrong Street North Ballarat Vic 3350
📱 Phone: 03 4334 0589
📧 Email: [email protected]
2.2 Policies & Procedures.
Inspire Early Learning Journey maintains a comprehensive and rigorously developed suite of policies and procedures to ensure the delivery of safe, consistent, and high-quality early childhood education and care.
These policies provide the governance framework through which Inspire meets its obligations under the Education and Care Services National Law Act 2010, the Education and Care Services National Regulations 2011, and the National Quality Framework.
All educators, staff, and families are required to adhere to these policies at all times to uphold the organisation’s commitment to excellence, ethical practice, and continuous improvement in alignment with the National Quality Standard and the Victorian Child Safe Standards.
2.3 Privacy & Confidentiality.
We are committed to protecting your privacy. We support and are bound by privacy laws to ensure strict confidentiality is maintained.
To plan programs with you we need to collect information from you. This information helps us to assess and plan programs in partnership with you. We do not disclose personal information about you or your child to other people or organisations without your consent, unless we are required to do so by law. We do not ask for personal information about you or your child from other professionals or organisations without your consent. You can look at the information in your child’s file at any time, or request a copy of information in the file.
2.4 Educator & Teacher Ratio & Qualifications.
Inspire Early Learning Journey strictly adheres to the educator-to-child ratios and qualification requirements prescribed under the Education and Care Services National Regulations 2011.
All educators are required to hold approved early childhood qualifications, current First Aid, Anaphylaxis, and Asthma Management certifications, and valid Working with Children Checks.
Our teaching team engages in continuous reflection, professional learning, and development to ensure practices remain aligned with contemporary pedagogy and the National Quality Standard (NQS).
Ongoing evaluation of the curriculum and its effectiveness in meeting each child’s educational and developmental needs forms a key element of Inspire’s commitment to quality improvement and professional excellence.
3. 📚 Education & Learning.
3.1 Goals For Your Child at Our Campus.
“We discovered that education is not something which the teacher does, but that it is a natural process which develops spontaneously in the human being.”
Maria Montessori
Educators’ practices and the relationships they form with children and families have a significant effect on children’s involvement and success in learning. Children thrive when families and educators work together in partnership to support young children’s learning. Children’s early learning influences their life chances.
Wellbeing and a strong sense of connection, optimism and engagement enable children to develop a positive attitude to learning. (Early Years Learning Framework)
We will create a range of short and long-term goals for your child that we will program to and observe on which will be based on the outcomes in the Early Years Learning Framework and include:
Mutual respect and empathy
Concern and responsibility for self and others
A sense of self worth
Social awareness
Importance of sustainability
Self-discipline
Habits of initiative and persistence
Creative intelligence and imagination
Self-confidence as an independent learner
A love of learning
We strongly encourage communication between families and educators to ensure continuity in what we are delivering to your child and acknowledge that the role of the Educator is to work in partnership with families; children’s first and most influential educators.
3.2 Educational Program.
We follow the Early Years Learning Framework as per our programming policy. This is Australia’s first national Early Years Learning Framework for early childhood educators, which aims to extend and enrich children’s learning from birth to five years and through the transition to school.
We are committed to providing a developmental and educational program, which caters for each child’s individual needs, abilities and interests. Our program will continue to develop as we use the relationships children have with their families and communities, working in partnership with parents, to ensure each child’s knowledge, ideas, culture, abilities and interests are the foundation of our programs.
We encourage children to be responsible for their own learning through choices in experiences, interests and routine. We use conversations, actions and play as the basis for teaching which involves the children being partners in teaching by seeking out ideas, opinions, thoughts and questions. We encourage children in promoting their independence and self-help skills by assisting within the routine and involving the children in interest based projects to further enhance their learning and knowledge. We value children and family input and encourage family involvement in order to gather a comprehensive and holistic view of the child.
We know that children learn effectively through play and Educators who are diligent in their responsiveness to each child support this. Applying strong intentional teaching practices will provide the children with an authentic and meaningful learning environment that challenges, supports and nurtures a child’s development.
If we as Educators have any areas of concern, we will inform you and advise where help may be pursued, e.g. speech therapist. We understand this is a sensitive topic and it is always your decision to follow this up. Educators are willing to discuss any aspect of learning and development with parents.
3.3 Montessori Curriculum.
Our Montessori Division has the five Montessori Learning Areas which complement the Australian Early Years Learning Framework;
The main focus of Montessori education is the holistic development of the child. By engaging in all that Maria Montessori has outlined for the child along with our special theme-based learning, the child is ready for the challenges of primary school. All classrooms cover the five areas of the Montessori programme - Practical Life, Sensorial, Maths, Language and Cultural.
Practical Life
Practical Life materials and exercises respond to the young child's natural interests to develop physical coordination, fine motor skills, care of self and the environment. This area encourages independence and prepares the child for reading and writing concurrently.
Sensorial
The Sensorial materials provide a range of activities and exercises for children to experience the natural order of the physical environment, including such attributes as size, colour, shape and dimension. This area prepares the child indirectly for mathematics.
Mathematics
The Montessori Mathematics materials are provided to show such basic concepts as numeration, place value, addition, subtraction, division and multiplication.
Language
The Montessori Language materials provide experiences to develop use of a writing instrument and the basic skills of reading a written language.
Cultural
The Cultural subjects include History, Geography, Science, Zoology and Botany.
When parents visit a potential Montessori school what should they be looking out for? When visiting a Montessori school a parent should also look out for the following:
Mixed-age groups (children between the ages of 3 years and 6 years)
Up to 3 hours of work cycles
Good quality Montessori materials that are orderly displayed on shelves
Montessori trained leaders or Qualified Educators who are working towards the Montessori Qualifications
3.4 Early Years Learning Framework.
Fundamental to the Framework is a view of children’s lives as characterised by belonging, being and becoming. From before birth children are connected to family, community, culture and place. Their earliest development and learning takes place through these relationships, particularly within families, who are children’s first and most influential educators. As children participate in everyday life, they develop interests and construct their own identities and understandings of the world.
Belonging - Experiencing belonging – knowing where and with whom you belong – is integral to human existence. Children belong first to a family, a cultural group, a neighbourhood and a wider community. Belonging acknowledges children’s interdependence with others and the basis of relationships in defining identities. In early childhood, and throughout life, relationships are crucial to a sense of belonging. Belonging is central to being and becoming in that it shapes who children are and who they can become.
Being - Childhood is a time to be, to seek and make meaning of the world. Being recognises the significance of the here and now in children’s lives. It is about the present and them knowing themselves, building and maintaining relationships with others, engaging with life’s joys and complexities, and meeting challenges in everyday life. The early childhood years are not solely preparation for the future but also about the present.
Becoming - Children’s identities, knowledge, understandings, capacities, skills and relationships change during childhood. They are shaped by many different events and circumstances. Becoming reflects this process of rapid and significant change that occurs in the early years as young children learn and grow. It emphasises learning to participate fully and actively in society.
Outcome 1: Children have a strong sense of identity
Children feel safe, secure, and supported
Children develop their emerging autonomy, inter-dependence, resilience and sense of agency
Children develop knowledgeable and confident self-identities
Children learn to interact in relation to others with care, empathy and respect
Outcome 2: Children are connected with and contribute to their world
Children develop a sense of belonging to groups and communities and an understanding of the reciprocal rights and responsibilities necessary for active community participation
Children respond to diversity with respect
Children become aware of fairness
Children become socially responsible and show respect for the environment
Outcome 3: Children have a strong sense of wellbeing
Children become strong in their social and emotional wellbeing
Children take increasing responsibility for their own health and physical wellbeing
Outcome 4: Children are confident and involved learners
Children develop dispositions for learning such as curiosity, cooperation, confidence, creativity, commitment, enthusiasm, persistence, imagination and reflexivity
Children develop a range of skills and processes such as problem solving, enquiry, experimentation, hypothesising, researching and investigating
Children transfer and adapt what they have learned from one context to another
Children resource their own learning through connecting with people, place, technologies and natural and processed materials
Outcome 5: Children are effective communicators
Children interact verbally and non-verbally with others for a range of purposes
Children engage with a range of texts and gain meaning from these texts
Children express ideas and make meaning using a range of media
Children begin to understand how symbols and pattern systems work
Children use information and communication technologies to access information, investigate ideas and represent their thinking
3.5 Sustainability.
Our Campus is passionate about sustainability. We believe in supporting children to appreciate and care for the environment by embedding sustainable practice into the daily operation of our Campus, infrastructure and teaching.
In order to empower our sustainability program we emphasise children’s ability to make a difference, enabling them to learn and appreciate their environment in an engaging, fun and exciting manner. We do this by engaging children in discussion about sustainable practice, encouraging them to participate in a recycling program, reducing energy and conserving water. We aim to provide children with the skills and knowledge required to become environmentally responsible.
3.6 Educator & Teacher Ratio & Qualifications.
We meet all legal requirements in relation to child to educator ratios and the qualifications of our educators. All Educators will hold First Aid qualifications, have Working with Children Checks completed and attend monthly Educators’ meetings.
Our Educators are continually evaluating how our curriculum meets the education needs of our children and reflecting on ways to improve children’s learning and development. They are encouraged to attend further professional training and development.
For further details on the qualifications of the Educators, please see our Nominated Supervisor.
Portfolios
Every child will have a personal, confidential hard copy or digital portfolio comprising of:
Child’s Profile
Goals from families and Educators
Observations
Objectives for further development
Work samples
Checklists
The individual child’s portfolio is maintained and used as a direct tool for evaluation and future planning within the Campus’ program. This makes the program reflect the value of individuality and is not be used as a means of comparison between peers or stereotypes.
The portfolio is always available for you to review at your convenience by using the Campus App.
3.7 Behaviour Guidance.
Educators follow a Behaviour Management Policy that extends across the whole Campus giving consistency of expectation in all rooms. This policy allows children to develop self-discipline, a respect for others, for property and respect for self, whilst learning to regulate their behaviour. If you require further information on this policy please ask Educators and refer to the Policy manual.
3.8 Rest & Sleep.
Rest and sleep routine varies according to individual needs. We aim to make rest time a relaxed, pleasant time for all children. We provide mattress beds for children and play soft music in the background. Your child may wish to bring a security item to have at rest time. Please feel free to discuss your child’s rest or sleep needs with Educators.
3.9 Physical Play.
Physical play includes activities that use physical movements to allow children to use their energy, enhance their concentration, motivation, learning and wellbeing. We feel physical play is a vital part of everyday life. We believe in providing children with a range of physical activities and experience on a daily occurrence for them to challenge their large and small muscles, allowing them to gain increasing control over their bodies as they learn the importance of physical play.
Physical play provides children with the opportunity to:
Develop strong bones and muscles,
Improve strength and balance
Develop Flexibility and coordination
Develop Fundamental Movement Skills
Develop spatial awareness
Develop mathematical concepts
Be confident as they learn to control their bodies and understand their limits
Learn to cooperate and share with others
Promote healthy growth and development
4. 🤝 Family & Community Partnerships.
4.1 Parent Participation.
The Campus has an Open-Door Policy and actively seeks and encourages families to be involved in the Campus. This can range from evaluating and adding input to your child’s program and observations, volunteering within the Campus and sharing skills & experiences that the children and the program will benefit from.
We can arrange meetings with your child’s Educator at a time that suits you throughout the year and offer email, Digital App, Facebook, Newsletters, Daily Journals and pride ourselves on strong verbal communication on a daily basis. We seek input from families on all aspects of the Campus but in particular, your child’s goals, observations and program.
If, for any reason you question or do not understand any aspect of the Campus or your child’s experience we have a Grievance Policy that supports all stakeholders in our community and like all policies, is available for families to consult and implement at any time.
4.2 Family Skills, Interests & Talents.
We welcome and encourage the involvement of all parents/families at our Campus. Your ideas, experiences and skills are greatly valued and will enable us to extend each child’s interests, abilities and knowledge. There are many ways for your family to be involved. We understand that our busy lives can’t always afford the time, however any contribution no matter how big or small is much appreciated. Here are just a few ideas.
Your Occupation or Hobby: You are the most important person in their world. We welcome all parents to the Campus to talk about their occupation or hobby (e.g. music, craft, cooking). Everything parents do interest children and these talks are the best educational resources you can provide for the Campus. We use information that has come from discussions about occupations and hobbies in our program and the ideas explored which can turn into interest projects providing valuable learning.
Your Home Culture: Your home culture is most welcome in our Campus. We would greatly appreciate if you were able to share with our Campus aspects of your culture and family life. This would assist us to enrich the lives of all our families and children.
Reading (Especially Good for Grandparents): Children love to be read to. If you or your parents have the time please contact your room Educators to organise a day for reading.
4.3 Recyclable Items.
We are always on the lookout for recyclable items for the rooms. Empty food containers, ribbons, wrapping paper, towel tubes (not toilet or egg because of hygiene and allergy issues) paper or anything interesting from your work is much appreciated.
4.4 Special Events.
Our Campus organises special events throughout the year. Keep an eye out and see you soon!
4.5 Suggestions.
Parents are welcome to visit or call the Campus at any time. If you have any suggestions or ideas on how we best can work together in the Campus please let us know. If you have any concerns, please see your child’s educator or the Nominated Supervisor. We have a grievance procedure if you would like to formally raise any concerns.
4.6 Communication.
Everybody has a different communication style and time for communication. We understand that mornings and afternoons can be a little rushed, and not the best time to discuss your child’s day.
We have many types of communication we use for families, which include:
Newsletter
Digital App Xplor Home
Phone calls to your work
Emails
Letters
Face to face
Facebook – Public Group, ‘Inspire Early Learning Journey’
Mid-year and End of year interviews
4.7 Family Photo.
Families are welcome to provide their family photos upon joining. We have a special album or wall photo chart in each room that we display all these family photos. This is a strong and valuable tool in our environment for your child to connect to, feel that they and their family are valued and that their family is as much a part of the Campus, even if they are not always there. If you would like to bring in a photo, or a couple of photos that represent your family, we would love to add it to our album or wall chart.
4.8 Birthdays.
It is very exciting for a child to be having a birthday. If a cake is required for a child’s birthday it is recommended that a real fruit cake (cakes made out real fruit) be provided as this reduces the major allergy risks associated with most other cakes. Families are required discuss cake options with educators prior to the celebration.
For our Montessori Division, there will be a Montessori Celebration of Life where families are encouraged to provide the timeline photos of the children to be given to the class teachers and parents are invited to join in. Your child’s educators will arrange the times with the families for this occasion.
5. 📝 Enrolment & Administration.
5.1 Enrolment Information.
Prior to commencing at our Campus, you will be required to complete all enrolment documentation and pay the bond and administration fee.
Please understand that it is essential we have up-to-date information in case of an emergency. It is important that you notify the Nominated Supervisor (or Responsible Person) of any changes to enrolment information including:
Contact details (email addresses, address, phone numbers etc)
Child’s health
Child’s medical information (including allergies)
Immunisation status
Family changes
Emergency contact information details etc.
It is essential that we have copies of your child’s birth certificate and current immunisation status. We are also required to have certified copies of any court orders relating to the child.
5.2 Signing In & Out of The Campus.
Each child must be signed in and out of the campus every day they attend. This is a legal requirement that we must follow. These records are used in case of emergencies and for the calculation of the Child Care Subsidy (CCS).
No child will be allowed to leave our Campus with a person who is not stated on the enrolment form, unless prior arrangements are made with the Nominated Supervisor.
Please ensure to email us at [email protected] for any notification on a new person to be authorised for picking up your child etc. Please also notify us if your authorised persons will be picking up your child for his or her first time via email and we will check their identity when they arrive at the campus and set them up to the digital sign in and out system.
5.3 Fee & Payments.
Fee levels are set by directors and management according to the Campus required income, budget and expenses necessary to provide quality care and maintain a high standard of operation and facilities. The fee structure will be reviewed annually or when deemed necessary by directors. Families will be provided with four weeks’ notice should there be an increase in fees.
Families are required to complete the online Child Care Subsidy assessment via myGov website prior to starting at Inspire ELJ. This will determine your eligibility and level of Child Care Subsidy entitlement.
On enrolment; we will need the CRN of the person linked with the child, along with the child’s CRN so we can confirm register attendance and ensure that you are receiving the appropriate subsidy.
5.4 Account Charges & Invoices.
Families will be invoiced fortnightly in advance for each day their child is booked in to attend the Campus. This will include any days the child was absent to illness will be charge at a full rate. A 15% discount applied for Victorian public holidays.
A 30% discount applied for personal leave or holidays; the family must inform the Campus via email no less than two weeks in advance of the intended holiday/break.
5.5 Campus Closing Time & Late Fees.
Please be aware the Campus closes at 6:00pm. In accordance with National Regulations and licensing, we are not permitted to have children in the Campus after 6:00pm. A late fee is incurred for children collected after 6:00pm.
The fee is $1 per minute for the first 5min, $2 per minute for the second 5minutes, after 10 minutes $3 per minute will be added to your next account. The late fee is strictly adhered to, as two staff members are required to remain at the program until all children are collected.
If we are unable to contact either the parent or a person nominated by the parent on the enrolment form to arrange collection of the child/children within an hour of the Campus closing, then we will contact Department of Education and Communities and the Police to take responsibility of your child.
IMPORTANT NOTE: INSPIRE ELJ CAMPUSES CLOSE AT 4PM ON 24TH DECEMBER AND 31ST DECEMBER (FULL FEES APPLY DURING THESE DAYS)
5.6 Child Care Subsidy (CCS).
Child Care Subsidy is a means-tested subsidy paid directly to the Campus as a fee reduction. There are 3 factors that will determine a family’s level of Child Care Subsidy, which include:
Combined Family Income
Activity Test for both parents
Service Type
Transitioning to Child Care Subsidy requires families to provide information and confirm current details by using your Centrelink online account through myGov. Here you will be asked to provide your combined family income estimate for the financial year, hours of recognised activity including work, training, study and volunteering and the type of child care your family uses.
5.7 Absences.
In the case that your child is absent we request that you email the Campus at [email protected] if your child is unable to attend their session for any reason. Notice is also required in the incidence of infections or contagious diseases in the family. A medical clearance certificate is required when returning to the campus if your child is unable to attend the session for contagious illnesses etc.
Families receiving CCS are allocated 42 absent days for each child per financial year. These absences can be taken for any reason including Public Holidays. Additional absences beyond 42 days for certain reasons may be approved and paid. Please talk to us about the additional absences.
If the child would normally have attended the Campus on a Public Holiday, fees will be charged as full day fee rate.
You can access your child’s absence record on your online statement by selecting 'View Child Care Details and Payments' on your Centrelink online account. You can also do this using the Express plus Families mobile app.
5.8 Campus Withdrawal & Reduced/Change Days.
Families are required to provide four weeks’ written notice when completely withdrawing their child from the Campus. Please note that the child must attend during the withdrawal period to stay eligible for receiving the CCS. All accounts must be finalised once the child has completed the attendance at Inspire ELJ as Centrelink’s final reconciliation may apply to the family statement. The initial bond payment paid will only be refunded once the account is finalised and fully paid.
Families are required to provide two weeks’ written notice when requesting to reduce or change days. Days are not allowed to be reduced during the withdrawal period.
6. 🌞 Orientation & Daily Life.
6.1 Preparing Childs First Day.
Orientation is an important start for your child and family to connect to our Campus. We encourage each child to attend the Campus in the company of a family member two (2) times before they start the day with us. Your child’s educators may provide you with a suggestion whether your child may stay on his or her own during the orientation. This gives you and your child the opportunity to gain an understanding of our program, the lay out of the room, where to find things, provide Educators with additional information about your child and how we can best support their transition and settling period.
If your child is reluctant to attend, please discuss this with their assigned Educator so that they can develop strategies with you to support the transition from home to the Campus. You are welcome to take photos of your child in our environment to show and discuss at home.
We suggest purchasing the following books you can read to your child prior to starting.
‘Preschool Day Hooray’ By Linda Leopold Strauss,
‘Maisy goes to Preschool’ by Lucy Cousins,
‘What to expect at Preschool’ by Heidi Murkoff and
‘I love you all day long’ by Francesca Rusackas.
Communication between home and the Campus must be open and happen often to best support your child during this time. There may be tears and extra tight hugs when saying goodbye for the first few weeks but there are always cuddles, reassurance and genuine care from Educators for both the children and their families. Sometimes this experience is upsetting more so for the family, not the child. We understand this and offer support through phone calls during the day, photos and open communication.
6.2 Saying Goodbye.
Ideally, your child will be settled at an activity before you leave, however some children find it hard to settle until their parents have gone. What works best is a set routine so try to establish the care routine from the orientation process. Being well organised and avoiding a rush usually results in a calm start to the day.
Most children will want to have a look around first to see who else has arrived and to look at what activities are available. Please tell your child when you are leaving as they may become upset if they haven’t had the opportunity to say goodbye. This will gain trust from the child, not only in you but in the Educator who is reassuring your child about their day and when you will return. Rest assured, we’ll contact you if your child becomes distressed.
6.3 What to Bring/Pack for Your Child at Inspire Early Learning Journey.
Backpack: For independence, we work towards all children being able to recognise and open their own bag. Let them be involved in selecting the bag and taking ownership of it. Please ensure it is large enough to hold all their belongings and is clearly labelled. If available, Inspire ELJ Backpack will be provided for your convenient.
Clothing: It is helpful to your child if they are dressed in non- restrictive, serviceable and easy to wash clothes so that they feel free to join in all the activities and to develop independence. Please consider clothing that enables the child to move around easily and allows children to be independent in dressing. Clothing such as long dresses, overalls, braces, belts and stiff buttons can prove a problem for children who need to go to the toilet. We require all t-shirts to have sleeves (no mid-drift tops).
Please, also label your child’s clothes and belongings with their full name so we can easily identify each child’s item of clothing etc.
Every now and then accidents occur and it may be necessary for your child to get changed into a fresh set. Please include at least two complete sets of change of clothes every day which can stay in your child’s bag...just in case! Including a warm jacket / rain coat during the colder days and all through winter season.
Hats: The Campus currently provides broad brimmed hats for the children which is essential for effective sun safety. During winter / cold days, please ensure you pack a warm hat/beanie.
Footwear: Shoes need to allow children freedom to run, climb, hop & jump as well as being easy for the child to take off and put on by him/her. Unsuitable shoes are thongs and gumboots and we prefer that these be NOT worn to the Campus. Lace up joggers or sandals are appropriate. For kinder children, please bring along inside shoes (eg: slippers), this however is not mandatory the children can just wear socks inside the class rooms.
Toys: The Campus has an abundance of high quality educational toys and we ask that children do not bring in toys from home, unless it is for the purpose of providing security or comfort during the day. This eliminates toys getting lost, broken, disappointment for other children and responsibility on Educators to track numerous toys throughout the day.
Formula / Milk: This Campus supports breastfeeding. Families that are breastfeeding should speak to the Nominated Supervisor or Responsible Person to be aware of our policies on storing and serving breast milk. Families that are formula feeding should also consult our Nominated Supervisor or Responsible Person to be aware on how we need the formula prepared and stored. Families will be required to supply the formula with note of instruction and child’s name on.
Water Bottle: A drink bottle / Sippy cup filled with fresh water. We will top it up as required. Water bottles are recommended to be taken home by families each day. However, we will wash the left behind bottles at the end of the day. Water bottles must be labelled with your child’s name.
Security/Comforter Items: Blankets, teddies, and other security items can often help your child bridge the gap between home and our Campus in the very early days. If your child has an attachment to any such item we would encourage you to send it with your child as it can gently assist them in feeling comfortable and settled.
7. 🛡️ Health & Safety.
7.1 Food.
Inspire ELJ is a NUT and EGG Free Campus. We provide care for children who have life threatening allergies to peanuts, tree nuts, eggs, dairy etc, and our priority is safety. Due to this, we ask that families DO NOT bring outside food into our Campus. This includes special treats, breakfast, lunch or an extra snack. Any food found in the child's bag will be disposed of.
The exception to this rule is the shared fruit which is brought in from the families when arriving and placed into the classroom fruit basket.
It is the Campus policy to provide healthy food that meets the nutritional requirements of the 'Feed Australia' program. Meals offered also respect cultural / religious customs.
Menus are developed on a seasonal basis. The daily menu is displayed on the information board and records of what children have eaten are kept in each room. Please speak to the educators in the room if you wish to know more about what your child has eaten each day.
7.2 Hygiene.
We promote hygienic practices in order to prevent the spread of infectious diseases / illnesses and cross contamination through the implementation of the following strategies:
Effective hand washing
Hygienic cleaning techniques and implementation of a cleaning schedule
Hygienic handling, storage and disposal of body fluids
Maintenance of a hygienic environment
Knowledge of infectious diseases and exclusion guidelines
Identifying and excluding sick children and educators
Safe food handling
7.3 Infectious Diseases.
The National Health and Medical Research Council have supplied the following information regarding: Exclusion from the Campus of a child suffering with the following diseases/ailments. Please inform staff if your child has any of the following so that we can let families and Health Department know if something is going around and avoid an epidemic. (Confidentiality is always maintained).
COVID-19 (NEW)
Please see the Sick Policy for information
HAND, FOOT AND MOUTH DISEASE
Until all blisters have dried.
HIB
Exclude until medical certificate of recovery is received.
HEPATITIS A
Exclude until a medical certificate of recovery is received, but not before 7 days after the onset of jaundice or illness.
HERPES – COLD SORES
Young children unable to comply with good hygiene practices should be excluded while the lesion is weeping. Lesions to be covered by dressing, where possible.
INFLUENZA AND FLU-LIKE
ILLNESSES
Exclude until well.
MEASLES
Exclude for at least 4 days after onset of rash.
MENINGITIS (BACTERIAL)
Exclude until well.
MENINGOCOCCAL INFECTION
Exclude until adequate carrier eradication therapy has been completed.
MUMPS
Exclude for 9 days or until swelling goes down (whichever is sooner).
POLIOMYELITIS
Exclude for at least 14 days from onset. Readmit after receiving medical certificate of recovery.
RUBELLA (GERMAN MEASLES)
Exclude until fully recovered or for at least 4 days after the onset of rash.
SALMONELLA, SHIGELLA
Exclude until diarrhoea ceases.
STREPTOCOCCAL INFECTION
(INCLUDING SCARLET FEVER)
Exclude until the child has received antibiotic treatment for at least 24 hours and the child feels well.
TUBERCULOSIS
Exclude until a medical certificate from an appropriate health authority is received.
WHOOPING COUGH
Exclude the child for 5 days after starting antibiotic treatment.
WORMS (INTESTINAL)
Exclude if diarrhoea present.
If your child is unimmunised according to our records, then they will be excluded until the threat has passed.
7.4 When Shouldn’t I Send My Child to Inspire Early Learning Journey?
Our Campus is a busy and demanding day for the bodies and minds of our children, we are not equipped to care for sick children; however, we will do everything we can to comfort a child who has become sick whilst in our care.
To try and prevent the spread of disease, please monitor your child’s health and watch for:
A runny, green nose
High temperature
Diarrhoea
Red, swollen or discharging eyes
Vomiting
Rashes
Irritability, unusually tired or lethargic
Please do not bring your child to the Campus if they display any of the above symptoms. If a child becomes ill whilst at the Campus the child’s parents or person responsible for the child will be contacted to organise collection of the child. If the child is unable to be collected, educators will contact the child’s emergency contact for collection.
When the child is collected, the family will have the following information made available to them to present to their doctor: symptoms, date of onset, general behaviour of the child leading up to the illness and any action taken.
Your child should not attend the Campus if they have had Panadol or Neurofen within 24 hours for a temperature. It is extremely important that staff members are aware if a child has had either medication so we do not re-administer and potentially overdose.
The other consideration is that medication of any type should not be added to a child’s bottle. Children who are on antibiotics are to be kept away from the Campus for the first 24 hours to allow the child to rest and the risk of spreading the infection to decrease.
If your child has been away due to illness, please check with the Nominated Supervisor as to whether or not you will need a certificate before your child returns.
We do not provide make-up days for both Public Holidays and Sick days.
For casual booking, families would be required to request via email or via the Xplor Home App in advance to ensure the days requested are available.
7.5 Medication.
Educators can only administer medication prescribed by a doctor. They cannot administer non-prescription drugs or dietary supplements unless a doctor provides the Campus with written authorisation.
Educators can only administer medication to a child from its original packaging with pharmacy instruction sticker.
On arrival at the Campus families, must give medication to Educators for safe storage and complete a medication authorisation form. Under no circumstances should medication be left in children’s bags.
7.6 Immunisation.
From 1 January 2018, children who are unvaccinated due to their parent’s conscientious objection can no longer be enrolled in child care. The Public Health Act 2010 prevents VIC child care centres from enrolling children unless approved documentation is provided that indicates that the child:
Is fully immunised for their age
Has a medical reason not be vaccinated
Is on a recognised catch up schedule
The relevant vaccinations are those under the National Immunisation Program (NIP), which covers the vaccines usually administered before age five. These vaccinations must be recorded on the Australian Childhood Immunisation Register (ACIR).
Children with medical contraindications or natural immunity for certain diseases will continue to be exempt from the requirements. Families eligible to receive Child Care Subsidy (CCS) and have children less than 20 years of age, who may not meet the new immunisation requirements, will be notified by Centrelink.
7.7 Allergies & Medical Management.
At Inspire Early Learning Journey, your child’s health and safety are our highest priorities. It is essential that families provide full and accurate information about any diagnosed allergies, intolerances, or asthma conditions upon enrolment. This information enables our educators to plan appropriately and respond effectively in the event of a medical situation.
Families are required to:
Record all allergies, intolerances, or asthma details on the enrolment form.
Provide a current medical diagnosis and management plan from a qualified doctor.
Submit an up-to-date Action Plan (e.g. ASCIA or Asthma Australia Plan) signed by your child’s medical practitioner.
Each Inspire campus follows a strict procedure to prevent and manage allergic reactions or asthma episodes. This includes:
Maintaining individual medical management plans and medication readily accessible in all rooms.
Ensuring all educators are trained in First Aid, Anaphylaxis Management, and Asthma Management.
Reviewing all medical plans annually or whenever your child’s condition or medication changes.
Implementing food safety and allergen control measures in collaboration with our on-site chefs.
Our goal is to create a safe, inclusive environment where every child’s health needs are understood, respected, and proactively supported.
7.8 Accidents & Injuries.
The Nominated Supervisor will contact parents immediately if a child is involved in a serious accident at the Campus. As a matter of extreme importance parents must ensure that the Campus has up to date emergency contact numbers.
An incident report will be filled out for all accidents, injuries and illnesses. This will contain details of the accident /injury/illness, any first aid that was administered, and be signed an educator, the Nominated Supervisor and by the parent.
7.9 Sun Safety.
Inspire ELJ is a SunSmart Campus. Children and Educators will wear hats and appropriate clothing when outside. Staff will encourage children, including by way of modelling behaviour, to avoid excessive exposure to the sun and to wear suitable sunscreen (at least SPF 30+), which is reapplied according to the manufacturers recommendations. We ask that children come to the Campus with sunscreen already applied so they are able to participate in outdoor play immediately and not have to wait the 20 minutes after application.
A sun protective hat must be worn every day when playing outside for protection against the sun. Please make sure to include it in your child’s bag every day regardless of the weather conditions.
7.10 Emergency Drills.
Throughout the year the Campus will hold emergency drills, which occur at any given time throughout the day. These are carried out in a well-organised and orderly manner. Educators will be trained in using the fire extinguishers that are in the Campus. An emergency evacuation plan will be displayed in every room.
7.11 Children’s Safety.
Never leave children unattended in cars while collecting children from the Campus.
Cars parks are dangerous places for children. Always hold children’s hands when arriving and leaving the Campus.
Never leave a door or gate open.
Never leave your children unattended in a room.
Children are not permitted into the kitchen and laundry areas.
7.12 Workplace Health & Safety.
We welcome all feedback regarding the safety of our Campus. If you see something that concerns you regarding safe work practices, the safety of building and equipment or general Work health and Safety, please contact the Nominated Supervisor immediately.
7.13 Court Orders.
Parents must notify the Campus if there are any Court Orders affecting residency of their children and a copy is required for the Campus. Without a Court Order we cannot stop a parent collecting a child.
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