Guardian Childcare & Education Freshwater

  • Keeping children safe always comes first. All of our team are committed to uphold the highest standards of child safety. Read our approach here
  • Exciting beach-themed outdoor spaces the children love! Including a boat, sandpit, non-stinging bees, worm farms and an outdoor dining area!
  • Newly renovated centre with stunning indoor and outdoor spaces that feel like a home away from home. Your child won’t want to leave!
  • You need to come and see why local families just like yours say our amazing centre feels like a home away from home for their children who have fun every single day. Be a part of it.

Book a tour today to see what makes our Centre special & have all your questions answered

Freshwater Map Image

HOURS

Mon to Fri 6:00am to 6:00pm

ADDRESS

4-8 Waine St Freshwater, NSW, 2096

SPACES AVAILABLE NOW ACROSS ROOMS

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Check out our fantastic indoor and outdoor learning spaces your child will enjoy

Welcome to our Centre

At Guardian Freshwater, we’ve created a true home away from home where your family becomes part of our community. Our early learning centre provides a nurturing environment with quality care and engaging educational programs, from our nursery rooms through to our government-funded Flying Start to School preschool program.

What makes our Freshwater childcare the ideal choice for your family?

• Our newly renovated indoor spaces are filled with quality, age-appropriate resources that engage and inspire children at every stage.
• Expansive, beach-themed outdoor areas with a boat, sandpit and worm farms for endless discovery and play.
• An amazing team that gets to know each child’s needs with our personalised To BE Me learning milestones program.

We provide a premium daycare where each child’s safety and wellbeing is our priority. We can’t wait to welcome you

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Freshwater Centre Manager Image

Meet our Centre Manager Carmen and team

"We are committed to nurturing the potential in every child, and passionate about empowering young minds and their families through purposeful, high quality learning experiences."

Daily Fees

Value for quality care. See our daily fee and your CCS-reduced cost

View Daily Fees

Our Flying Start to School program provides a specialised 2-year curriculum for children aged 3 to 5. Our unique program has two stages - Becoming Me for 3 year olds and Being Me for 4 year olds. Using developmental milestones and continuous monitoring of your child's progress, this program is designed to make sure your child gets a flying start to school. Read more HERE

Flying start to school

Where children are supported to be brave, curious, and bold in their learning, for the best possible start to life.

Reviews from Google

4.9
(40)
Kris Y
Kris Y
02:49 15 Jul 25
I’ve had children at Guardian Freshwater since 2020 and have always been happy with the care provided. My children rarely get sick, the centre is clean and there’s plenty of outdoor play. Educators take the time to understand each child’s needs and personalities, and it’s been lovely seeing familiar educators care for all three of my children over the years. There’s a strong focus on fresh food and a varied weekly menu. The centre recently extended hours which has increased flexibility. I’ve also noticed a positive shift toward hiring more highly qualified staff. I also appreciate that Guardian offers a swap day to make up for missed public holidays. It’s a warm, nurturing centre that I’d happily recommend.
Laetitia P.
Laetitia P.
01:28 10 Jun 25
Very happy with this centre. Our son started at this centre when he was 9 months, and he settled very well there. Educators in the Joey's room are amazing and so kind. They really care about children and they have created a very nice relationship with him. We have moved recently, and we miss them so much :-(
Helen A.
Helen A.
19:51 26 Nov 24
I really can’t thank everyone at The guardian enough they go above and beyond. Our daughter was very nervous when she first started and hated goodbyes but they were so caring and helped her through it. They would even ring me to let me know she was all settled and happy so I wouldn’t worry. Our daughter has made some amazing friends and adores her educators. We all hold such fond, special memories from here, thank you.
Julie D.
Julie D.
22:04 17 Oct 24
My children started attending this center early on, and we absolutely loved it! We were really sad to leave when we moved, as the staff and educators were incredible. Our kids formed strong connections with them. I can’t recommend this center highly enough!
Carolina J.
Carolina J.
05:12 21 May 24
I have had the most beautiful, experience with Guardian. The team have been so lovely and go above and beyond to support the families. My little girl adores all of the teachers and staff there and they are always happy to see her, giving her all the love and cuddles while I am away at work. They keep me updated through the app about her day & I am always delighted to see what they're up to when a notification comes through with photos and videos. I always see everyone happy and smiling and it's a beautiful environment they create for the children that allows them to come into their own personality and understanding of the world. Sofia has matured so much from all the incredible programming they do & it often makes me giggle to see the different experiences they have in their day from science experiments to going shopping, training for the olympics (LOL), dancing & cooking. As a mum, it can be worrying going away for hours on end to work, but I am always reassured that I am doing thew right thing for me and for Sofia when I see how much she learns and how happy she is at the end of each day. It's very cute and also very important for me to have these lovely people in my life and in Sofia's life and I could not be more grateful and happy with their service.
Elizabeth R.
Elizabeth R.
01:59 21 May 24
Guardian is the best Center for childe
Paula L.
Paula L.
02:32 05 Mar 24
Ria F.
Ria F.
22:06 04 Feb 24
Our Kids had an absolute amazing time at the Guardian in Freshwater. The Educators all really enjoy their job and gave us a great feeling to leave the kids with them. The program in each room also makes sure to find the right balance between playful learning and just play, so you feel the kids have an awesome time but also develop really well.
Carmen S.
Carmen S.
09:42 26 Jan 24
I can't express enough gratitude for the wonderful care my daughter Olive has received at Guardian Freshwater. The staff are not just professional but genuinely caring, creating a warm and nurturing environment. As full-time working parents, we have really appreciated the level of service; from nutritious meals to continuation of care throughout the holiday periods. Thank you for being an exceptional daycare that goes above and beyond, we will miss you guys!
Cristian V.
Cristian V.
23:15 24 Nov 23
Megan P.
Megan P.
03:51 07 Jun 23
We have loved everything about Freshie Guardian. It has been the best space for our son to start daycare in. We are moving overseas, and I'm worried we won't ever find a daycare this amazing again -- the bar has been set high. Sarah is extremely organized, and our son was in the Possoms room, where Novi and her team welcomed him into their family. It feels great to drop him off knowing he's so happy and excited to run in and hug his teachers, and comes running over to us at pick up time with a huge smile. They provide updates and photos throughout the day and know him and his funny quirks so well. The educators at Freshie Guardian have loved our little guy as their own during his time there. We are so thankful to have found such an amazing community of people at this centre.
Fernanda M.
Fernanda M.
02:12 18 Apr 23
The main reason to give 5-starts is that I really like the educators. They seem to be warm, caring and respectful towards the children. Also, the premises look great and I love the the food Mia cooks (whish I could take her food home).
Dominika P.
Dominika P.
01:11 07 Mar 23
I am very happy with this daycare. The manager Sarah and girls in my daughters class are just amazing and always very helpful
Cale and C.
Cale and C.
02:04 13 Dec 22
We could not be more happy with the experience we've had a Freshwater Guardian. Our daughter Aggy loves the centre and it's staff and we are very sad to be leaving (we are moving towns). The genuine care and interest the staff have for our daughter is amazing, the centre is very well equipped and from the photos we see the food is brilliant. Could not recommend more highly.
Carolina Jimenez O.
Carolina Jimenez O.
04:42 22 Nov 22
Simon Christopher R.
Simon Christopher R.
04:38 11 Nov 22
We had a fantastic experience with this centre. Children really enjoy going here and there is great food and lots of outdoor play.
Dushka A.
Dushka A.
10:39 15 Aug 22
We love our day care! We absolutely love the staff very caring and professional ladies. The food is cooked on the premises always healthy great menus every days for the kids. The layout of the day care is fantastic with lots of outdoor space protected from the sun and rain.There is always great open communication with the educators.And the manager off course Sarah , a fantastic lady always ready to help always trying to accomodate everyone with anything she can. Thank you!
Carolina J.
Carolina J.
02:03 09 Aug 22
I love guardian & the staff. All have been such a wonderful support and I enjoy regular updates on Storypark of how my little angels day is going and her activities.
Li C.
Li C.
01:12 21 Jun 22
The educators are wonderful. They gave my daughter the warmest welcome and help her fit in the new environment so well. My greatest appreciations.
Paz Rodriguez P.
Paz Rodriguez P.
03:09 22 Mar 22
Amazing centre! The manager and educators are GREAT! They are always paying the necessary attention to each kid and they are really keen to make them learn and feel comfortable in this new environment. Thanks team! 💛
Faye R.
Faye R.
03:13 15 Mar 22
Our 10 month old baby has settled into the centre very well. The staff provide the highest standard of education and care and the management and on site chef are amazing!
Mia C.
Mia C.
06:34 09 Nov 21
Outstanding in every way
Kaitlin S.
Kaitlin S.
03:06 24 Sep 21
We are so happy with this daycare for our 15 month old! We moved her from a previous daycare we were not thrilled with and couldn't be happier with our decision. Our girl is so happy to be dropped off every morning and I pick her up with a big smile on her face every afternoon.The teachers are so wonderful, she adores Lilly & Novi who run her room as well as the teachers from all the other rooms. It’s incredible that everyone in the Centre knows her and gives her so much love & support.The educational development programs are wonderful. She has picked up so many new words and loves the arts & crafts and fun experiments they do. The outdoor spaces are amazing and shaded so that the kids can be outside the majority of the year. It’s surrounded by huge trees so feels like they are in the bush and it protects them from the elements.We feel so lucky to have found this gem of a daycare for our girl. Thank you, Sarah!
M W
M W
01:39 14 Sep 21
My wife and I would not hesitate to recommend the Guardian Freshwater. Sarah has built a simply fantastic centre. Every child there looks happy, cared for and supported and you feel part of a community rather than just paying for a service.Our educator for our one year old daughter was Katie who took time to build a relationship with our nervous little girl. She is now thriving and this is without a doubt down to love, care and play Katie and the entire Guardian team have for the kids, the centre and for the industry.The team also take the time to answer questions and support us during the nervy few weeks of starting daycare. We never felt rushed or panicked. The centre also keeps parents updated each day through Storypark.Through the nervousness of the pandemic, the centre has remained a safe and secure place. It is clean and well maintained.Food is freshly prepared each by Chef Mia and is a wonderful varied mix of nutritional meals.We are unfortunately leaving the area so won’t be able to continue daycare here. My wife and I though, in a heartbeat, would recommend The Guardian. We are deeply saddened to leave and the development of our daughter for the four months she has been here will never be forgotten.Do not hesitate to have your children join this centre. We honestly could not thank Sarah and Katie enough.
Ben C.
Ben C.
02:51 02 Sep 21
My two kids go here, 1 and 2 yr olds. Its a great set up with the kids outdoors a lot but in the shade which I'm a big fan of. Educators are engaged with the kids. And the food, next level. I've never seen anything like it. Mia is a great asset to the team.
Gemma H.
Gemma H.
05:08 30 Aug 21
Our little boy started at Guardian Freshwater when he was 8 months old and has been attending for almost 5months now.We really took our time selecting the right daycare for River due to extra attention he requires and we are so thrilled with our choice.Sarah and the team were willing to put a plan together, take on the extra responsibility and able to offer extra support which made us feel at ease immediately.The app is a fantastic way to see what they've been upto during the day which is such a wonderful and exciting notification to receive whilst I'm at work. It also shares daily photos of the delicious meals by Mia and developmental information every week.Sarah has been fantastic to deal with, so flexible and she does such a wonderful job. Nothing appears too much trouble, her responsiveness is immediate and its clear her Guardian family are her passion.With not having any other family here and the impact of Covid making all of our lives a little difficult its such a relief to have such a warm centre to look after your little one and take the pressure off. Again Sarah and the team have really tried to support the community in such a safe way aswel as offer innovative ways to support families.I really think when selecting the right childcare it comes down to the people and immediate feel you get when you're in there and I can't recommend this gorgeous centre enough.Thank you Sarah, Trish, Katie and Chantel (and all the other members) for your constant love and care for River.
Cara S
Cara S
07:07 12 Apr 21
Guardian at Freshwater is a lovely centre with caring staff. It feels like a big family. Sarah and her team do a wonderful job at catering the curriculum to suit the children’s interests and they provide a supportive environment for the kids to grow and learn. The quality of the food served is also really high. Highly recommend!
Deirdre S.
Deirdre S.
02:42 17 Jul 20
A beautiful center run by an amazing, incredibly personable, understanding, and caring director. Petra has been a source of warmth and support for our little family, which has made being so far away from our extended families a little bit easier. She is a true gem.I cannot rate Guardian at Freshwater highly enough.
Sindy F.
Sindy F.
06:32 22 Jun 20
Guardian Freshwater have such a fabulous team of educators and staff that we consider a natural extension of care and development opportunities for our child. I always have a happy and excited toddler telling me about all the fun play and delicious (and healthy!) meals at the end of each day. The centre chef is brilliantly creative with presenting healthy meals in a way that even the fussiest of eaters will want to try!The educators and centre director are extremely warm, friendly and openly communicative, encouraging strategies that work closely with each family to ensure needs, individual goals of your child and any concerns are addressed.The centre provides open play spaces with child led opportunities for learning through play, drawing from each child's interests while providing a framework for achieving age appropriate developmental milestones. It's a very child focused and communities driven environment and ticks all of our boxes and more!Highly recommend considering Guardian Freshwater if you are looking for a nurturing child care centre.
Lisa M.
Lisa M.
00:00 16 Jun 20
I can not recommend Guardian Freshwater / Blueys highly enough. I went to view quite a few centres prior to finding Blueys and from the moment I walked through the door I knew I had found the perfect place for my then 12 month old daughter. When I arrived to do the tour I was greeted by the centre director Petra who I instantly felt a warmth from and connected with - something I had been seeking but had struggled to find elsewhere.There was a calm vibe throughout the whole place and it just felt like a 'safe haven' for my child. That was almost a year ago and I have never regretted my decision to enrol my daughter here. The staff are all incredible, the quality and variety of the food they get is out of this world and my daughter couldn't' be happier. We recently had to take her out due to Covid and this was a really hard time for us as we knew she would miss it so much but during this period we remained in regular contact with the centre and were constantly provided with craft/care packages to take home. We will be forever grateful for all the support and guidance they showed us during this tough time. So much love for this centre and feel very lucky to have the support and love from Petra and the team.
Emma H.
Emma H.
11:10 15 Jun 20
My son has benefited immensely from the education, love and care shown by all the team at Guardian Freshwater. The staff are always very professional and are clearly very experienced and place great pride in the critical role they play in the development of the children in their care.
Alison L.
Alison L.
05:28 12 Jun 20
There is no denying the centre went through a rocky patch when takeover in 2019. However with the wonderful Petra (Centre Director) at the helm Guardian Freshwater has returned to its glory days! The staff are wonderful and love the kids to bits 😁 The resident cook whips up delicious and nutritious food that I often drool over when I see it through Storypark. Our son feels safe and loved at the centre and is thriving! Well done team 👏
Kate G.
Kate G.
00:58 12 Jun 20
Both our boys attend Guardian Freshwater... We feel this centre is exceptional. The educators are warm, connected and passionate about what they do. The boys are thriving. Petra the centre director is instrumental in evolving the centre into one that is high performing. Her drive and attention to detail is fine tuned into everything the centre does and standS for. All levels at the centre have been so professional and on the front foot with the Covid-19 policies and government changes there has been no room for ambiguity here. They room leader and centre director picked up on our eldest eyesight and fortunately we got him tested as he needed glasses. My husband and I cant say enough good things about this centre. If you are looking for a new centre you and your kids will be more than happy here!!!!
Rachael H.
Rachael H.
00:08 12 Jun 20
I can’t recommend Guardian Freshwater highly enough. The staff are so nurturing and passionate about what they do, and my kids love them. Every afternoon at pick-up you receive a detailed run down on your child’s day, delivered with such enthusiasm, no matter which staff member is working that day - what your child ate, did, who they played with, how long they slept for etc. It shows real care and dedication in looking after the kids who attend, as well as dedication to engaging them in learning. Each day/week has a learning theme with activities designed to get the kids involved in a particular subject matter and real-world problem-solving. Definitely worth seeing if you can get your child in! 5 stars ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
Sio C.
Sio C.
06:42 23 Mar 18
Shila Larrys L.
Shila Larrys L.
11:19 26 Mar 17
Priscilla L.
Priscilla L.
09:20 30 Nov 16
Darren C.
Darren C.
22:32 25 Oct 16
victor M.
victor M.
08:31 03 Sep 16
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Rhythm of the Day

We know children (and families) like routine. Whilst no two days of learning are ever the same - here's what a day at Guardian might look like.

Morning

Our friendly Nursery team of familiar educators will be there to greet you and support your baby to settle in for the day.  Breakfast time is available & families are welcome to stay and enjoy with the children. This is also a great chance for conversation to share what is important and how your baby’s night at home was.

Mid-Morning

Our nursery learning environments are set up indoors and outdoors for your baby to engage with a variety of planned experiences while they interact with our team such as exploring picture books, singing songs together. We also offer morning tea.

Middle of the Day

Dependent on the needs of every baby, we time lunch to suit the children. Team members will support your child to eat and/or have a bottle, and when they are ready, are gently settled for sleep or rest. With an open-door policy, families can enjoy lunch/bottle time with your baby if you wish.

Mid-Afternoon

Our nursery planned experiences (both indoor and outdoor) continue and there are opportunities for movement, playing games, more books and songs, or sensory exploration. Afternoon snack is provided.

End of Day

We’ll have your baby’s belongings ready for you at pick up time. The Nursery team will share information about your baby’s day and their learning, preparing you and your child for a smooth transition to your evening. Please grab a piece of fruit or snack on the way out!

What's included in the Guardian Experience

From nutritious meals and engaging learning programs —it’s all covered in your daily rate. No hidden extras, just peace of mind for you and a great day for your child.

Hat, wetbag and sunscreen

Hat, wetbag and sunscreen

5 meals per day

5 meals per day

All incursions and excursions

All incursions and excursions

Nappies, wipes and formula

Nappies and wipes

Storypark parenting app

Storypark parenting app

Long day care hours year around

Long day care hours year around

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Frequently asked questions

What we do to keep children safe

Create Safe Spaces & Practices

  • Nappy change areas are designed to have visibility windows and are set up for maximum supervision
  • Our policies also cater for team members being in sight or sound of another team member at all times.
  • Safety embedded in daily programs – by conducting daily checklists, comprehensive risk assessments, and more
  • personal phones or devices are not allowed in learning spaces.

Safe People Who Follow Safe Policies

  • Working With Children Checks for all team members. Automatic alerts if a WWCC is revoked and team member not eligible for shifts
  • Rigorous reference checks – must provide previous line managers for their past roles
  • Annual compulsory Suitability Declarations to confirm ongoing fitness to work with children
  • Mandatory reporting and speaking up – report concerns immediately and all concerns will be investigated fully
  • Ongoing mandatory training in child safety, including annual refreshers and leadership-specific modules

Controlling Access to our Centres

  • Multiple levels of security in all centres
  • All visitors must sign in and present photo ID before entry
  • All tradespeople must provide a WWCC & complete Guardian-specific induction.

Read more here

Daily Fee Information

Daily Rates

Our daily rates are all inclusive and have no additional charges for incursions / excursions or any of our learning programs. The rates shown are an estimate based on using Childcare Subsidy (CCS) subsidised hours. The CCS helps lower your out-of-pocket costs, with subsidy rates dependant on your individual family eligibility levels.

What You Might Pay After CCS
Age of Room Daily Rate 60% Subsidy 80% Subsidy
Nursery (0–2) $204.62 $104.55 $71.19
Toddler (2–3) $194.18 $94.11 $60.75
Preschool (3–5) $191.05 $90.98 $57.62

The New South Wales Government offers funding to provide families fee relief of up to $2174 per child aged three and above, and up to $515 per year for children aged three. This support is in addition to the Child Care Subsidy and can help to lower your out-of-pocket fees. Ask for more details when you tour the centre.

What should I bring, and what do you provide?

What we Provide

  • Nappies and wipes
  • Bed linen
  • Guardian hat
  • SPF 50+ sunscreen
  • All nutritious meals and snacks

What to Bring

  • Water bottle
  • Spare change of clothing, labelled
  • Soft toy or comfort blanket for nap time
  • Baby's bottles for formula or breastmilk

Who are the team that will be looking after my child?

Freshwater Centre Manager Image

Carmen and team

Our Centre team, led by our experienced Centre Manager Carmen, prides themselves on creating a great sense of community for all families.

Each role in the Centre is designed to work together to help create a nurturing environment for every child in each of our learning spaces.

In our Nursery Room, the dedicated team has a special role in creating secure attachments, routines, and strong relationships. Unique to Guardian nurseries is our Baby Ambassador, who is your go-to person for you and your baby’s first 12 months with us. They will know every detail about your baby: how breast or bottle milk is managed, how they like to eat, their sleeping routines, the nappies they wear, and more. With babies as young as six weeks in the Centre, it’s the Baby Ambassador’s job to work with families and Educators to help make our Nursery feel just like home.

Our Educators across the age groups work together to create fun, stimulating, and age-appropriate experiences for every child in their care. They are dedicated, experienced professionals who are allocated to a specific room so they can get to know each child individually and support their learning and development.

As part of our 2-year Flying Start to School program, we have degree-qualified Teachers who use the latest teaching practices to help your child build essential practical and social skills, ensuring they’re ready for their next big adventure—school!

Each room has a Lead Educator or Teacher who is responsible for planning and implementing an effective ongoing cycle of planning, documentation, and evaluation of the room’s learning program.

At the core of the Centre is our Cook—make sure you check out their daily menu when you visit. They help make food part of the learning journey and love seeing how children respond to new and exciting flavours.

The team is supported by a strong Leadership Team, including an Assistant Centre Manager and an Educational Leader.

Every role at the Centre is as important as the next.

How will you share updates about my child’s day?

Great communication is vital in our collaborative partnerships with families at the Centre. We have a variety of different ways we communicate with you about your child’s learning and progress:


  1. Storypark app - Stay connected to your child's day with regular updates, including photos and learning insights

  2. Pick-up and drop-off updates – Our Educators will share highlights from their day, including experiences they enjoyed, mealtimes, and naps to support your evening routine.

  3. In-room learning exchange displays make our weekly learning plans easy to see so you know what your child will be learning.

  4. Centre Newsletters – Great for community connection and wider Centre and team updates.

  5. Development documentation and meetings for your individual child’s progress.


But remember our door is always open.

What are the main features of this Centre

With a range of exciting, resource-rich environments – including beach-themed outdoor spaces – children are encouraged to explore and learn at Guardian Freshwater. The light-filled and spacious Centre also has non-stinging bees, worm farms, a boat, alfresco dining areas, and a range of age-specific learning spaces. 

  • Highly experienced Educators and degree-qualified Teachers  
  • Bright, vibrant learning spaces full of resources designed to inspire 
  • Extensive outdoor space for children to explore
  • On-site Chef providing fresh snacks and meals daily
  • For babies, nappies, SPF 50+ sunscreen, a hat and bed linen are provided in our nursery room
  • Extended hours of care each weekday from 7am to 6pm

Our Learning Programs

Learning should be fun! Learning through play encourages children to explore and understand their world at their own pace. It helps build their knowledge, develop confidence, and embrace curiosity.

Learning should be fun! Learning through play allows children to build their knowledge, develop confidence, and embrace curiosity.

Preschool Program

No state fee relief information available.

Out and about

Through excursions, children are supported to expand their world, to get to know their community, and have a sense of belonging. Their learning thrives when they feel safe, welcome, and that they belong.

STEM

Children discover the wonders of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics through age-appropriate activities that are designed to foster curiosity and develop foundational skills like problem-solving and creativity.

Cooking

Cooking experiences teach numeracy by counting ingredients, and weighing and measuring quantities and volume, while managing these tasks supports independence and confidence.

Ella Language

Learning languages through Early Learning Languages Australia (ELLA) supports brain development and social skills and creates opportunities to celebrate cultural diversity.

Joy of Reading

Reading aloud to children each day inspires imagination and supports thinking. Books with rhythm, rhyme and word patterns make stories more playful and memorable.

Sustainability

From growing veggies and foraging in the garden for that day’s meal ingredients to learning about recycling, children learn about being part of a community, connecting to their environment and understanding their impact on the world.

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What our families say about the centre

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Guardian Centres Nearby

Bright and inviting indoor learning space at Guardian Childcare Manly, NSW, featuring diverse play areas and natural light.

Manly

4-10 Sydney Road,

Manly NSW 2095

View Centre

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