Wavell Heights
Imagine a place where your child's eyes light up every morning... where learning feels like a natural adventure and independence blossoms naturally.
That's what we've created here at our Wavell Heights centre, a warm and vibrant community where children aged 6 weeks to 6 years discover their potential at their own perfect pace.
We provide Montessori Early Childhood Education with the convenience of long daycare hours to support families and children.
Educational philosophy
Our Montessori approach honours each child's unique development journey, allowing them to progress at their natural pace while building independence, confidence, and a love of learning. Through careful observation and gentle guidance, we help each child discover their capabilities in their perfect time.
Professional excellence
Through ongoing Montessori training and professional development, our educators stay current with the latest research while honoring time-tested educational principles. This commitment to excellence ensures your child benefits from both innovative practices and proven teaching methods.
Every day brings new opportunities for discovery and growth.
An individual journey
Children move freely through prepared environments, choosing activities that spark their interest and challenge their abilities. Some might be absorbed in mathematical concepts using concrete materials, while others practice language skills or explore scientific phenomena. This self-directed learning helps develop concentration, willpower, and the joy of discovery.
Our mixed-age classrooms create natural opportunities for peer teaching and mentoring. Children build strong, respectful relationships while developing their sense of identity as active participants in their community.
Curriculum highlights
At the heart of our program is the Practical Life curriculum, where children use real, child-sized tools to develop independence and confidence. Whether they're preparing snacks, caring for plants, or learning to pour their own drink, these everyday activities build concentration, motor skills, and a sense of responsibility.
Our Sensorial curriculum takes learning deeper, helping children refine their processing skills through carefully designed materials. As they explore textures, shapes, and patterns, they're building essential foundations for mathematics, language, and scientific thinking.
A home away from home
Step into our Wavell Heights centre, and you'll immediately feel the warmth and tranquility that makes this space so special. Children's voices fill the air with joy and purpose as they explore, learn, and grow together. Our spaces are designed with your little one in mind - simple, organised, and welcoming - just like a second home should be.
Our peaceful, harmonious spaces invite children to see how everything connects - from caring for our classroom pets and plants, to preparing their own snacks, from learning about different cultures to understanding their place in our community. Through gentle guidance and our Grace and Courtesy curriculum, children develop natural respect for themselves, others, and their environment.
Step outside and watch childhood come alive as nature becomes the perfect classroom. You might find children caring for our centre pets, tending to plants in our gardens. On a rainy day our children can be found jumping in puddles and on a perfect summer's day, educators will kick off their shoes and allow children the freedom to run through our sprinklers in the playground
Our on-site chef prepares fresh, seasonal meals every day. Mealtimes are social occasions where children gather to share conversations and practice independence using real plates and cutlery. Children can participate in food preparation and cooking, learning valuable life skills while developing an appreciation for healthy eating. To support sustainability we share suitable food scraps with our centre animals, teaching children about reducing waste and caring for living creatures.
We respect every stage of your child's development, including their journey toward toilet learning. Our modern cloth nappy program offers a sustainable alternative to disposables while helping children become more aware of their body's natural rhythms. This thoughtful approach protects both your child's dignity and our environment, making the transition to independent toileting a natural and comfortable process.
Partnering with families
Through our Your Child's Day (YCD) app, you'll never miss a moment of your child's journey. Our educators share updates, photos, and learning stories throughout the day, giving you a window into your little one's discoveries and achievements. From mealtimes to milestone moments, you'll feel connected to your child's experiences. The app also makes signing in and out effortless, right from your phone.
We see ourselves as partners in your parenting journey. You are your child's first and most important teacher, and we're here to support both you and your little one. Whether you're navigating new phases of development or celebrating milestones, we're right beside you.
We understand that trusting someone with your child's care is a significant step. That's why we focus on building genuine relationships with every family who joins our community. Our "Connection before Correction" philosophy means we approach each situation with understanding and care.
Our community is beautifully diverse, with educators and families from all walks of life bringing their own unique stories and traditions. This rich tapestry of cultures makes our centre a vibrant place where children learn to appreciate and celebrate differences naturally.
Meet the team
The diverse, multilingual team at Forest Lakes of over forty experienced educators contributes to an inclusive environment where every child's journey is supported and celebrated.
Centre Manager
With Building Futures since 2003, Karen brings extensive experience in early childhood education, including a Diploma of Teaching, Bachelor of Education, and an AMI Montessori Assistants to Infancy (0-3) qualification.
Her passion for supporting educators to reach their full potential creates an environment where everyone thrives.
Educational Leader
Lauren's rapid journey from Assistant Educator in 2018 to Centre Manager in 2023 reflects her dedication to Montessori education.
With multiple Montessori qualifications and a natural talent for mentoring, she ensures our team delivers exceptional care and education.
"A beautiful Montessori environment. Excellent educators and a strong community feel - I loved walking in with my kids and feeling that they were known and welcomed."
A day in the life
Early morning 'Hellos'
Stepping into Building Futures feels special from the very first moment. Friendly fish wave their fins to say good morning, and you might hear our budgies cheerfully chatting in the background. It's a peaceful way to start the day, helping our littlest friends feel at ease.
Starting the day
Children settle into their morning routine with ease – collecting their name tag from the back of the classroom door and placing their bag in the locker. They grab their hat, use the mirror to apply sunscreen, and head outside for some fresh air and playtime with friends.
Morning tea time
There's nothing quite like sharing fresh fruit and friendly chats with your favourite people!
Our progressive morning tea is a lovely social time where children learn to pour their own drinks and help serve food to their friends.
Discovery time
For a wonderful two to three hours, your child will be fully immersed in their own learning journey. You might find them working with friends on an exciting project, mastering new skills with Montessori materials, or deep in concentration on their latest discovery.
Lunch with fiends
Mealtime is always special with our lovely onsite chef's seasonal creations. The children love helping to set the tables with real plates and cutlery, just like home. It's amazing to see even our youngest friends managing their own lunches with such pride!
Rest and recharge
After all that learning and exploring, it's time for a peaceful break. Some children drift off for a cozy nap, while others enjoy quiet time with a book or gentle activity. Our educators create such a nurturing atmosphere during this time.
Afternoon adventures
The afternoon brings new possibilities! You might find our little ones checking on the chickens, splashing in water play, or creating masterpieces in our outdoor spaces. Every day brings its own special moments.
Winding down
As day heads into evening, we transition to quieter activities. It's beautiful to see children helping pack away their work, saying goodbye to friends, and sharing stories about all of their day's adventures.
Let’s build your child's future together.
Building Futures is more than a childcare centre. We're a community where every child feels safe, loved, and free to explore their world. A place where every family member feels welcomed and valued, and where we work together to give your child the best possible start in life.
