Welcome
Elonera Pre-School has been an integral part of the Parkdale community for over 60 years. Our team of nurturing and experienced early childhood professionals deliver high quality three and four year old kindergarten programs.
Our name, Elonera, is an Aboriginal word that means ‘A Happy Place for Children’ and this is the environment that we strive to provide for every child. Our curriculum is play based and inspired by the world-renowned educational principles of Reggio Emilia. We support the development of the ‘whole child’ through meaningful experiences that build on children’s interests, cultures, strengths and knowledge, in our classroom and expansive outdoor environments.
3 YEAR OLDS - KANGAROOS
The group, spread across two sessions, has an emphasis on having fun while learning to share and co-operate with each other in a happy, safe, relaxed, well structured educational environment.
3 YEAR OLDS - WOMBATS
The group has an emphasis on having fun while learning to share and co-operate with each other in a happy, safe, relaxed, well structured educational environment.
4 YEAR OLDS - POSSUMS
At Elonera, we feel that your child’s four year old kindergarten year should enable your child to blossom and grow in a safe, happy nurturing environment.
BUSH KINDER - KOALAS
Our four year old Bush Kinder program, held at Braeside Park, will provide your children with the ideal learning environment: time and space to play in a natural setting, materials provided by nature and their own interests and enjoyment spurring them on in their learning.
Our Educators
Our educators are all nurturing professionals who provide a secure environment for your child to enjoy and grow in, with qualified Early Childhood teachers co-ordinating both the 3 and 4 year old groups. Please find our Statement of Philosophy here.
Timetable for 2026
2025 Handbook
The 2025 Elonera Preschool Handbook outlines key guidelines on child safety, health policies, daily routines, and a play-based curriculum, emphasizing inclusivity, cultural respect, and community involvement. It encourages family engagement through events, volunteer roles, and maintenance duties, fostering a safe, nurturing environment for children’s growth and learning.
Acknowledgment of Country
Elonera Preschool community acknowledges Boon Wurrung people as the traditional custodians of this land. We also acknowledge their continuing connection to land and community. We pay our respects to them, their cultures and elders past present, and continuing. We recognise that Aboriginal people have been nurturing and teaching children on this land of many thousands of years, we honour and respect that role.
The Elonera teaching team are committed to doing our best to incorporate indigenous perspectives into our curriculum as well as respect and celebrate Aboriginal ways of living with the children.
Testimonials
