Need a trusted childcare centre near Windale, NSW? Juniors Journey provides early learning services for local families who need flexible support throughout the week. We’re open Monday to Friday from 6 am to 6 pm, offering a welcoming and supportive environment where little ones can play, explore and grow.
Our early learning centre features five indoor spaces tailored to different age groups and stages of development. Every room is filled with engaging educational resources, natural light and direct access to outdoor play areas. Our spacious yard includes a sandpit, soft-fall surfaces and climbing equipment that support a range of physical, social and cognitive skills in a safe, secure setting.
We also help children develop the building blocks for the next step in their education. Discover a government-approved preschool program focused on literacy, numeracy and school readiness and delivered by qualified Early Childhood Teachers.
Why choose Juniors Journey for early years education near Windale?
Safe & fun outdoor spaces
Passionate early childhood educators
Nappies & wipes provided
Healthy chef-prepared meals
Government-approved preschool program
Family communication app
Extended & flexible hours
Incursions & excursions
Meet Nicole, our childcare centre manager
In my approach to early childhood education, I believe that every child deserves to be treated with the utmost respect and dignity, as they are unique individuals with their own strengths, experiences, and potential.
Children are capable, competent learners, and my role as Centre Manager is to create a nurturing environment that inspires their imagination, curiosity, and growth as confident individuals.
By modelling respectful behaviour, I aim to cultivate a culture where children learn to respect others, as well as themselves. I recognise that each child brings their own cultural background, identity, and experiences, which should be honoured and celebrated. I am dedicated to ensuring that children feel proud of who they are within the community and that they know their ideas and contributions are important.
Safety and reliability are central to everything I do. Physical, emotional, and psychological well-being are essential for children to thrive. That’s why I’m committed to creating an inclusive, consistent space where children feel secure in all aspects of self.
This involves ensuring we provide a safe space where children are protected from harm, but also where they feel free to take risks, make mistakes, and explore new ideas. I believe that a sense of safety fosters confidence, creativity, understanding and resilience.
Ultimately, my philosophy centres on creating a community where respect, dignity, and safety are woven into every interaction and relationship. I believe that by fostering these values, children will not only develop the skills they need for a lifelong love of learning but also the emotional and social foundation to become compassionate, respectful, and responsible individuals in the world.
Our rooms
Frequently asked questions
Our address is 49 Oakdale Road, Gateshead NSW 2290, just a few minutes’ drive from Windale.
For parents living in Windale, Jewells and nearby Lake Macquarie suburbs, this means a quick and easy drop-off on t
Childcare fees vary depending on your child’s age, the number of days enrolled and your eligibility for the Child Care Subsidy (CCS). This subsidy can significantly reduce the cost out-of-pocket for eligible families in Windale.
The best way to receive accurate, up-to-date details on fees is to speak with our team directly. We’ll provide you with a clear breakdown of daily rates based on your needs.
Yes. Juniors Journey is approved for the CCS, which you can use to lower your childcare fees if eligible. The subsidy amount depends on your family income, activity level and hours of recognised activity.
If you are unsure how to apply or how much you may receive, our Centre Manager is here to help you understand the process. Get in touch today to discuss your options.
We welcome children from 6 weeks of age through to preschool age.
Our nursery program is specifically designed for babies, with age-appropriate routines, safe sleep practices and individual care plans that align with family preferences.
To begin the enrolment process, please complete our online form.
Yes. We provide long daycare from 6 am to 6 pm, Monday to Friday. These extended hours help parents who commute or work full-time with consistent care.
Enrolments are open year-round, subject to availability. Parents are encouraged to enquire early, especially for nursery placements, which can fill quickly.
To enrol, please contact our team to check vacancies and arrange a visit.
Juniors Journey operates in line with Australia’s National Quality Standard (NQS), which sets the benchmark for early childhood education and care services across the country.
The NQS assesses centres against seven quality areas, including educational programs, health and safety, staffing arrangements, relationships with children and governance.
This means your child will be cared for in an early learning centre that is regularly assessed and regulated. We follow strict health, safety and supervision requirements, employ qualified teachers and deliver programs guided by the Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF).
If you would like more information about our current quality rating or what it means for your child’s experience, our team is happy to explain it during your tour.
A typical day at our childcare centre near Windale includes play-based learning experiences, outdoor play, shared meals, rest time and small-group experiences tailored to each age group.
Babies (0–2 years)
Babies follow individual routines based on feeding and sleep needs, from morning to evening. Carers focus on secure attachments, sensory play, music, stories and early communication.
Toddlers (2–3 years)
Toddlers participate in hands-on play that builds language, coordination and social skills. Activities include art, construction, group games and guided exploration.
Preschoolers (3–5 years)
Our qualified Early Childhood Teacher leads a school-readiness program aligned with the EYLF. Kids develop early literacy, numeracy, independence and problem-solving skills to prepare for primary school.
Play-based learning is the foundation of early childhood education in Australia under the EYLF. This approach allows children to learn through exploration, creativity and connection, leading their own experiences with support from a dedicated educator.
In turn, children can develop communication skills, emotional regulation, physical coordination and early maths and literacy concepts at their own pace.
Learn more about the EYLF and play-based learning.
Attending daycare before preschool helps children build confidence, social skills and independence in a supportive setting.
At our childcare centre near Windale, children learn to follow routines, share with peers, listen to educators and participate in group activities.
These early experiences make the transition into preschool and primary school smoother and less overwhelming.
As a parent, you can enjoy peace of mind that your little one is ready to start the next chapter in their learning journey.
Nurturing, welcoming and empowering every child
We provide high-quality early education that supports the learning and growth of every child. Our play-based principles and nutrition-focused meals encourage exploration, expression and celebration of individual learning journeys.