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NSW BEST SMALL PRIVATE REGIONAL CENTRE

2019, 2022 

Developing Dreams Early Learning Chain Valley Bay 

 

Professional Recognition:

  • Exceeding Service - as rated by the ACECQA, 2021, 2024 (Woongarrah)
  • Exceeding Service - as rated by the ACECQA, 2020 (Chain Valley Bay)
  • Finalist - Australian Small Business Championship Awards, Early Childhood Education, 2020, 2021 (Chain Valley Bay) 
  • Winner - NSW Best Small Private, Regional Service, 2019, 2022 (Chain Valley Bay)
  • Finalist - Central Coast Business Person of the Year, 2023
  • Finalist - Central Coast Young Employee of the Year, 2024
  • Finalist - Outstanding Early Childhood Centre, Central Coast Small Business Awards, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024, 2025 (Chain Valley Bay) 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024, 2025 (Woongarrah)
  • Finalist - Excellence in Early Childhood Education Awards, Teams 2019 (Chain Valley Bay) and 2022 (Woongarrah)
  • Finalist - Excellence in Early Childhood Education Awards, Training & Development 2019 (Chain Valley Bay)
  • Vocational Student of the Year Nominee, 2022 (Chain Valley Bay)
  • Nominated, Telstra Business Women's Awards 2019
  • Nominated, HESTA Early Childhood Education & Care Awards, 2019 (Chain Valley Bay)
  • Parliament Community Recognition Statement, 2019
  • Trainee of the Year Finalist, 2019 (Chain Valley Bay)
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Rebecca Thompson, Stone & Sprocket

"I am grateful to have crossed paths with the Developing Dreams team because I know that children and families are going to be supported and heard in some of the most vulnerable times in their lives."

A parent's perspective:

"Finding Developing Dreams Preschool has been the greatest gift for our family. Choosing care for children when they are so young, vulnerable, and impressionable is one of the most important decisions a parent can make. You’re not just selecting a place. You’re choosing the circle of influence that will shape your child’s early experiences, their view of the world, and how safe and supported they feel outside the home. As a parent who has always struggled to trust others to care for our daughter, the sense of safety and confidence this preschool has given us has been nothing short of freeing. It’s something I’ll always carry with deep gratitude. This wasn’t the first preschool we enrolled our daughter in. We toured many and trialled a few, but none came close. In fact, when we said our goodbyes to previous centres, even some of their educators commented that they’d love to work at Developing Dreams but that “opportunities rarely come up because the team simply doesn’t leave”. It’s a preschool known for its incredible staff retention, and once we experienced for ourselves the culture Cath has built, it’s easy to understand why. What Cath and her team have created is something truly special. A preschool where every child is truly known, loved, and encouraged to thrive. Many of the educators have been there for years, and the stability, consistency, and joy that brings to the children is invaluable. The educators at Developing Dreams aren’t just qualified. Most are well and truly overqualified. But what makes them remarkable isn’t just their expertise. It’s their passion, their warmth, and the genuine care they bring to each child every single day. They are deeply aligned with families and dedicated to raising kind, confident, capable little humans. When I think back on my own childhood, I was one of the lucky ones who had that one special teacher - the one who left a lasting impact, who encouraged me, inspired me, and made me feel truly seen. At Developing Dreams, it’s not just one educator who offers that kind of experience. Every single member of the team is that person for our daughter. It is incredibly special, and there is no greater gift a preschool can give to a parent. Our daughter wakes up every morning genuinely excited to go to preschool, a reflection of how safe, loved, and understood she feels there. There is something truly special about walking into a preschool where the educators genuinely enjoy working together. That sense of connection and mutual respect doesn’t just create a positive workplace. It becomes a beautiful example for the children, who grow up surrounded by kindness, collaboration, and joy. The communication is exceptional. Even in the early days when our daughter couldn’t communicate well enough to tell us about her day, we always felt informed, involved, and completely reassured. What also sets this preschool apart is how much it values connection with families. They go above and beyond to include parents, not just during school hours but through after-hours and weekend events as well, ensuring everyone has the opportunity to be involved and create special lasting memories with their children. Behind the scenes, the dedication of the team is just as inspiring. They regularly volunteer their time outside of hours by attending team events and professional development, decorating the preschool, and organising special celebrations and dress-up days. The staff don’t just plan these days, they fully embrace them, dressing up with enthusiasm and creating a joyful, magical atmosphere for the children. They also lead and support meaningful charity initiatives and fundraising efforts throughout the year, teaching children the value of kindness and community. All of it is done for the joy and enrichment of the children. Their commitment and heart is something I’ll always be grateful for. We feel incredibly fortunate to be part of the Developing Dreams Preschool community. I wholeheartedly recommend this preschool to any family looking not just for care, but for connection, growth, and a place where your child will be genuinely cherished. Enrolling our daughter here has been the best decision we have made."

Relationships, Wellbeing & Growth

These are the guiding values of Developing Dreams and are embedded seamlessly throughout the Services.

Both early learning centres are purpose-built, heart-led and intentional preschools caring for children aged between 2-5 years. 

Developing Dreams has a reputation among the early childhood sector, families and staff as the go-to place for support and empowerment.

Emotional and physical safety is prioritised and critical reflection guides the company's decision-making and growth.

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"Children are born belonging to a culture, which is not only influenced by traditional practices, heritage and ancestral knowledge, but also by the experiences, values and beliefs of individual families and communities."

Belonging, Being, Becoming - The Early Years Learning Framework

Consistent, Compassionate & Committed Educators

"The strength of the team is each individual member. The strength of each member is the team." Phil Jackson

Staff are individually selected based on the unique qualities they offer the vision of Dreams. Each brings qualities, dispositions and skills which contribute to the creation of positive Relationships and Wellbeing for all.

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Early Childhood Curriculum 

"There are two lasting bequests we can hope to give our children. One is roots, the other is wings." Hodding Carter Jr

The emotional and social wellbeing of the children - that is, a true sense of belonging - is the foundation of the curriculum at Developing Dreams Early Learning Centre. 

Components of our Educational Program may include:

  • Celebration Of Dreams - a month-long winter wonderland of connection and curiosity for all
  • Exploration Of Dreams - a bush kindy program which is designed to promote in children, connection with self, with others and with their wider world (CVB only)
  • Flexible indoor and outdoor routines
  • Balance of learning experiences catering for children's holistic development within group and individual contexts
  • Inclusive practices for all
  • A Mentally Aware Workplace
  • Reciprocal relationships with feeder schools
  • Professional collaborations with other sector services, such as therapists and inclusion support agencies
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A mother shares her thoughts...

 

Throughout my journey in various early childhood environments, Developing Dreams stands out as the one that aligns most closely with my values. I appreciate the intimate setting of the centre, where both the children and staff are prioritized.

Each experience is thoughtfully designed to be inviting, and I often find myself enjoying a quick playtime during drop-off. The emphasis on natural and recycled materials is commendable, and I am always impressed by the cleanliness of the centre. It's a delight to arrive for pick-up or drop-off and be greeted by a pleasant aroma, a rarity in my experience with early childhood centres.

I cherish the opportunity to have brief conversations with any educator during drop-off or pick-up, as they are all familiar with my daughters’ personalities and consistently share updates about her day. This level of personal connection is something uniquely fostered in a smaller center.

This is a true testament to your leadership, Cath. Everything you have built over the years has created a nurturing home away from home for all the children. I could not be more grateful that my family is a part of this wonderful community. 

More Kind Words

We appreciate and value the professional accolades Developing Dreams Early Learning Centre has received, but it's the relationships with those who invest in us that are the greatest indicator of our Service's quality.

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Yasmin

"Thank you for having such a beautiful centre and genuinely lovely staff for me to send my babies. It definitely takes the pressure off my heart when I leave them."

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Rhiannon 

I wanted to thank you and all your beautiful staff for welcoming us to Developing Dreams. Paris has come home each afternoon so happy with so many wonderful things to tell us. I as a a parent feel so happy and confident leaving my treasure in yours and the staff's hands. Again, I thank you and look forward to the amazing time Paris will have at Dreams.

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Early Childhood Consultant

My heart is full after seeing your beautiful place in action. I got goosebumps as soon as I walked in. The hum of children busily plodding in pockets of play. You can't get that everywhere. It gives me such hope.

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Position Applicant

Hi Lovely Ladies, I just want to thank you for tonight. I came in feeling stressed and flustered and left your Centre and presence a lot calmer. Thank you for the opportunity to come and meet you and the cutest, kindest little piece of the world you girls own.

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Holly

This is an exceptional service that prioritises strong, trusting relationships not only with each child but also with their families and caregivers. The centre is always clean, inviting, and thoughtfully set up to support both comfort, learning and play. Every activity and experience is created with intention and often follows the interests and ideas expressed by the children, making learning both meaningful and fun. It’s amazing to see how responsive and engaged the educators are—there’s someone in every space ready to sit, play, build, read or sing alongside the children. One of the many things that sets Developing Dreams apart is its consistency and dedication. The centre retains a passionate and experienced team and I believe have higher staff to children ratios than what is required (exceeding industry requirements) ensuring a very well resourced space. Special occasion days and dress-ups are a highlight, with incredible decorations, activities, and celebrations that create lasting memories for the children. We couldn’t ask for a better place for our children to grow, learn, and thrive. Developing Dreams is more than a preschool—it’s nurturing, inspiring, and such a joyful community, and we are so extremely happy to be a part of it.

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Monique

Thank you for all that you do and and all your beautiful staff. We are grateful to have you in our lives.

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Lisa

One of the best things about the staff at Developing Dreams is that they really see the children, and their faces light up when the children arrive. It's just one of the many things that puts me at ease leaving my little ones with you.

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Laura

I was tucking Zara into bed and she had been really quiet all night, so I asked her how she was feeling and she replied, 'I want to go to preschool'. I asked why and she simply said, 'Because I love preschool'. It made me smile and thought it might do the same for you.

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Shallise

As a parent, finding a childcare centre that you can trust with your child’s wellbeing, development, and happiness can be stressful but Developing Dreams has exceeded every expectation I had. From the very first day, the team has shown genuine care, warmth, and professionalism. The educators are not only highly qualified but also incredibly nurturing and attentive. My child settled in quickly thanks to their patience, kindness, and the strong sense of routine and security they provide. The centre is always clean, bright, and welcoming, with thoughtfully designed learning spaces both indoors and outdoors. Every day, my child comes home with a smile, new skills, and stories of exciting activities. It’s clear the curriculum is play-based yet structured in a way that supports each child’s individual learning journey. Communication with families is also excellent. I always feel included and informed about what’s happening in my child’s day. What I truly appreciate is how the educators take time to understand each child’s personality and needs. They celebrate milestones, provide support through challenges, and work closely with families to ensure a consistent and caring approach. It’s more than a childcare centre it is a safe, joyful, and enriching environment where children feel loved and supported. I feel completely confident leaving my child in their care each day. I couldn’t recommend Developing dreams more highly.

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Sarah

My main love for the Centre would have to be it is inviting each day. I am always greeted with conversations and smiles which eases my anxieties on drop-off. I would not be the only parent that would want a nice, smooth transition when leaving a child in care & our Developing Dreams Woongarrah team are fantastic, allowing us to leave our children knowing they are cared for, nurtured & loved just as much as at home.

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Kerrie

Thank you for that beautiful welcome back hug you gave this morning. It reminded me just what a thoughtful, caring group of people you all are at preschool and how lucky we are to have found you all those years ago

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Kellie

You have created such a wonderful environment with amazing, beautiful support staff. I love that my kids love going to Developing Dreams & the safe community you have created around the Centre. Thank you

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Celebration of Dreams

Celebration of Dreams is a unique tradition established in 2014. Each June, the Centre's become a winter wonderland, complete with themed activities, gifts for children and Random Act of Kindness presents for families. It's our way of saying 'thank you' for choosing Developing Dreams to share your child's early years.

It brings anticipation, joy and connection for children, staff and families as we engage in Pyjama Week, Pirate Day, Dress-up Week, Disco Day, Sports Day, Country Fair Day, Children's Choice Day, community events and more ... like Waddles the Penguin who gets a little cheeky each June!

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Call Chain Valley Bay on 4358 3155, Woongarrah on 4393 3133,  or email [email protected] for enquiries 

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