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Carey Lane Early Learning Centre

Updated 2026-08-08 · 4,516 reviewed · 192 listed · Scored from 63 Google reviews · How we rank ›

4.2(63) 77 composite score See reviews on Google ✓ Google-verified
Kindergarten & Preschool ProgramsFamily Day CareLong Day CareBefore & After School Care
Carey Lane Early Learning Centre
Services
Kindergarten & Preschool Programs, Family Day Care, Long Day Care
Reviews
63

What recent reviews say

Families consistently report their children thrive at Carey Lane, with staff earning particular praise for genuine warmth and individual attention. Staff retention is notably high, and the centre balances structured learning with play-based exploration, supported by daily photo updates that parents value for continuity at home.

The outdoor garden, healthy meals prepared by chef Michael, and regular cultural celebrations and incursions shape the experience. A minority raised concerns about holiday closure charges without prior notice, and policy clarity would help prospective families plan.

Praised for
  • caring, attentive educators
  • smooth transitions and confidence building
  • clean, well-organized facility
  • engaging daily activities and learning
  • longstanding, familiar staff
  • nutritious meals and menu variety
Watch-outs
  • holiday closure fees
  • lack of clarity on holiday payment policies
caring-educatorsqualified-staffclean-facilityengaging-activitiesconvenient-locationnutritious-mealsexcellent-routine-updates
Best for: Families valuing staff consistency, regular communication, and play-based early learning in a small community setting.
Think twice if: Holiday closure fees apply; confirm payment policy and any out-of-hours service options before enrolling.

Strengths

  • Low staff turnover and continuity of care
  • Photo and detailed daily updates via app
  • Nutrition Australia approved meals prepared on-site
  • Shaded outdoor garden with natural play spaces

Worth knowing

  • Chef Michael prepares daily menu
  • Named educators mentioned by families: Nancy, PJ, Rosie, Lourmie
  • App-based daily photo updates and progress notes
  • Regular incursions, cultural celebrations, sensory play, and cooking sessions
  • Outdoor area features natural shade, plants, and riding toys

What reviews say by service

Kindergarten & Preschool Programs
Children develop confidence, communication skills, and emotional growth through structured play-based learning and cultural activities.
Long Day Care
Families report children are happy, well-cared-for, and thrive; strong relationships with longstanding staff.
Before & After School Care
Limited evidence in reviews, but centre is noted as convenient for families with multiple school-age children.

How it compares

  • Rated 4.2 against a 4.78 average across the 131 kindergarten & preschool programs businesses listed here.
  • Has more Google reviews than 88% of the businesses in this directory.

How we scored this

How We Score
Star rating 57
Review volume 78
Review recency 100
Review sentiment 72
Profile completeness 100
Verification 30

Rating breakdown

5
51
4
0
3
0
2
0
1
12

Common questions

Does the centre provide meals?
Yes. The centre provides morning tea, lunch, and afternoon tea. Their website states meals follow a Nutrition Australia approved menu, prepared on-site by their chef.
Can I see what my child is doing during the day?
Reviewers mention the centre uses an app to send daily photos and detailed updates about activities, which helps families engage children in conversation about their day.
Do the same staff stay, or is turnover high?
One recent reviewer noted longstanding staff is important and confirmed Carey Lane has retained educators over years, which reviewers specifically value as helping children feel secure.

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Last updated 2026-08-08