Child care & kindergarten

The Children’s Centres at Victoria University provide full-time or part-time care and education for children from three months to six years of age. We also offer a state-funded kindergarten program at each of our centres.

We’ll provide your child with opportunities to maximise their potential, develop a positive attitude towards early learning and build the foundation for future success.

Children thrive thanks to our varied, indoor/outdoor play-based program and our qualified and caring educators. 

We meet all legislative requirements as required by Australian Children's Education and Care Quality Authority (ACECQA).

  • Discount fees for current Victoria University students.
  • No fees charged for public holidays when service is closed.
  • Approved service for Government rebates.
  • Provide nutritional meals cooked on the premises.

In 'Child care & kindergarten':

Footscray Nicholson Children's Centre

A selection of the toys and books that are available to the children

The Footscray Nicholson Children's Centre is a purpose-built facility located on campus, a short walk from the Footscray train station.

The Centre has a purpose built observation room so staff, families and students can observe children's learning without interrupting their play. This facility is also used by students studying early childhood development to enhance their learning.

The centre provides care and education for 39 children including a kindergarten program for four-year-olds.

Care is available for children aged three months to six years on a full-time (weekly) and daily care basis. 

Age groups

The centre has 3 age groups:

  • under 2 years
  • 2 - 3 years
  • 3 - 5 years (kindergarten program).

Location & opening hours

Ground floor, Hoadley building, Albert Street, Footscray (Footscray Nicholson Campus)

Opening hours: Monday to Friday, 7.45am - 5.45pm

Contact the Footscray Nicholson Children's Centre

Lee Dare, Centre Coordinator

lee.dare@vu.edu.au | Phone: + 61 3 9919 8698

Footscray Park Children's Centre

Footscray Park Children's Centre outside play area

The Footscray Park Children's Centre is a converted period house located within a two minute walk from the Footscray Park Campus.

The centre provides care and education for 38 children including an integrated kindergarten program for four-year-olds.

Care is available for children aged three months to six years on a full-time (weekly) and daily care basis.

Age groups

The centre has 3 age groups:

  • under 2 years
  • 2 - 3 years
  • 3 - 5 years (kindergarten program).

Location & opening hours

Opening hours: Monday to Friday, 7.45am - 5.45pm

Location: 8 Geelong Road, Footscray (opposite Footscray Park Campus).

Contact the Footscray Park Children's Centre

Mary Olanda, Centre Coordinator

mary.olanda@vu.edu.au | Phone: + 61 3 9919 4578 | Fax: + 61 3 9919 4403

Werribee Children's Centre

Werribee Children's Centre outdoor play area

The Werribee Children's Centre is a purpose-built facility located on campus, a short walk from the Hoppers Crossing train station.

The centre has an extensive natural outdoor play area that promotes growth and development.

The centre provides care and education for 43 children including an integrated kindergarten program for four-year-olds.

Care is available for children aged three months to six years on a full-time (weekly) and daily care basis.

Age groups at Werribee Children's Centre

The centre has 3 age groups:

  • under 2 years
  • 2 - 4 years
  • 4 - 5 years (kindergarten program).

Location & opening hours of Werribee Children's Centre

Gate 2, Hoppers Lane, Werribee Campus.

Opening hours: Monday to Friday, 7.15am - 6.15pm

Contact the Werribee Children's Centre

Leesa Lawatzki, Centre Coordinator

leesa.lawatzki@vu.edu.au | Phone: + 61 3 9919 8098

Fees

We offer weekly and daily rates, discounts for VU students and competitive rates for the general public.

Tasty, fresh and nutritious meals are cooked on premises and included in our rates.

Most families are entitled to receive Child Care Benefit (CCB) and Child Care Rebate (CCR). For more information, contact the Department of Human Services or visit your local Centrelink office.

Waiting list application

Places in our Children’s Centres are offered according to the Department of Education and Training’s Services Priority of Access Guidelines.

VU students and staff have first priority to available spaces, however the broader community is also welcome.

Please contact us for space availability, to join a centre waiting list or to arrange a tour of our great facilities.

If you are interested in obtaining a place for your child at one of our centres, please ensure you submit your application as soon as possible!

A Children's Centre Coordinator will contact you by phone or by mail to offer you a child care place if one becomes available.