Guardian Childcare & Education Prahran

  • Proud winner of the Family Choice Award 2025. As determined by our existing families rating their experience of our Centre via Family Satisfaction Survey and independent Google Reviews. Click here for more detail
  • We know it’s hard to choose a childcare. Take a tour with us, and you’ll see why so many families love us. A warm community, quality learning and fun experiences each day for your child – we have got it all.
  • From the most nurturing nursery room to our leading 2-year kindergarten program – we are the leading Centre in the area for the first 5 years of your child’s development
  • Your child will be in the best hands with us, and our centre will soon become their second home. They will never want to leave!

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

Prahran NQS Rated Exceeding by ACECQA

Our centre has been recognised as ‘Exceeding’ the National Quality Standard. This is the highest rating you can receive from a regulatory authority assessment and we are proud to deliver an exceptional service to the children and families who attend our centre.

Prahran Map Image

HOURS

Mon to Fri 7:00am to 6:00pm

ADDRESS

349 High Street Prahran, VIC, 3181

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

Welcome to Guardian Childcare & Education Prahran, a spacious and inviting centre, with childhood education programs focused on play-based learning. Our Prahran day care and child care centre provides a nurturing and stimulating environment for children aged six weeks to six years of age, supporting them to discover the world in a safe and secure way.

Our long day care in Prahran is conveniently located for families residing in nearby suburbs, including South Yarra, Windsor, St Kilda, Malvern, and Armadale. This central location provides excellent accessibility to quality childcare for local families in Melbourne’s vibrant inner-southeast​

Our Prahran childcare centre offers:

  • Quality learning programs such as Joy of Reading, Cooking and Sustainability
  • Engaging indoor learning spaces full of quality educational resources
  • Expansive outdoor play spaces with a sandpit, play equipment and veggie garden
  • On-site Chef providing fresh snacks and meals daily
  • Highly experienced Educators and degree-qualified Teachers
  • Nappies, SPF 50+ sunscreen, a hat and bed linen provided
  • Extended hours of care each weekday from 7:00am to 6:00pm

Our long day care centre is a modern, welcoming centre with a range of exciting and inspiring environments, including two spacious outdoor yards, a water pump, workshop area, vegetable gardens, a worm farm and two open-plan studios.

The teachers and educators at our Prahran childcare centre provide quality learning programs for the children, including a two-year funded Kindergarten Program that will help prepare your child for the exciting transition to primary school.

Diverse learning programs with sports and music experiences plus community excursions to the Victoria Gardens park, NGV, pet shop and local library. The children love our fantastic vegetable garden and our pet rabbits and fish.

The Victorian Government offers funding to provide families up to 15 hours of Free Kindergarten a week, in addition to the Childcare Subsidy. The funding offsets the fees for three and four-year-old children that are part of the centre’s long day care Kindergarten program. Families will save up to $2,101 a year for children aged three-years-old and above in eligible long day cares in 2025. Ask us for more information when you visit our Centre.

Children also get out and about on weekly excursions at our Prahran early learning centre, so we have a great connection with the surrounding community, visiting a range of locations, including Victoria Gardens, Prahran Library, Prahran Markets and Lumley playground. This helps the children gain an understanding of the world around them and build connections into the wider community.

At our long daycare centre in Prahran, we’re proud to have a culturally diverse team and celebrate a variety of events and holidays throughout the year. We also love to get involved in local fundraising events which further extends on our community connections.

As part of our unique Visible Learning Program, families have the chance to gain an in-depth understanding of their child’s learning. Easily accessible for families, our Learning Exchange Display provides the opportunity for our Teachers and Educators to share with you any updates on their progress every day. You will also have the chance to share with us your own personal goals and visions for us to implement, having direct input in your child’s educational journey!

Families will also be given access to our family communication app Storypark, where we will share with you any significant updates in your child’s day, as well as any other important updates that happen in the centre – ensuring that you’re always connected, even when you’re not here.

The children enjoy meals freshly prepared on-site by our dedicated chef, using seasonal ingredients often harvested from our very own gardens. In addition, our educators love hosting regular hands-on cooking classes with the children. These experiences enhance the children’s understanding of good nutrition and lay the building blocks for establishing healthy food habits for life.

Begin the adventure at Guardian Prahran today by booking a tour today. Or you can speak to one of our team for more information about the Centre.

We’re Exceeding! What does that mean? Every six months, our Centres are assessed by ACECQA, the national body with the responsibility for monitoring the quality of all registered child care centres in Australia. A rating of Exceeding National Quality Standard means that you can be assured that this Centre is providing an exceptional level of care and attention for your child.

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Prahran Centre Manager Image

Meet our Centre Manager Nina and team

"We have had the privilege of working at Prahran for over 13 years, and during that time, it has truly become my second home. Our goal is to create a warm and welcoming environment where children and families also feel at home."

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

4.5
(23)
R M.
R M.
19:59 11 May 25
Both my children have thrived at Prahran. The centre has consistent educators that are always warm and welcoming. The centre has given my children (now in primary school) a great foundation to their overall learning and well-being. Thank you Prahran!
Teera C
Teera C
04:52 31 Mar 25
Guardian Prahran has been a wonderful learning centre for our son over the past two years. We are truly grateful that the educators and all of the staff are so invested in the development of each child. The facilities are clean, bright, inviting and stimulating for kids of all ages and the food and variety of activities that they provide is amazing. Our family couldn't recommend the centre more highly.
Elle O.
Elle O.
23:56 14 May 24
I adore our centre, our educators and the care they provide. We have been to other centres and nothing compares. Emily and the wider team are all over it making drop-off and any special notes an easy and seamless process, they're adaptable and always so kind to meet our needs without you feeling like a pain!
Alice M.
Alice M.
08:35 11 Mar 24
The centre is very lovely and welcoming with its coziness and family oriented vibe about it. The staff are just amazing and all the children seem very relaxed and happy :))
Sam C.
Sam C.
00:43 28 Feb 24
Thank you so much to Prahran Guardian. Our daughter has flourished for the last 2.5 years, we cannot speak more highly of the team.
Ashlinn M.
Ashlinn M.
01:39 14 Feb 24
We have been very happy with our experience at Guardian Childcare Prahran. Staff are attentive and caring, providing excellent play and learning opportunities for the children. Each day is different, keeping it exciting for them and making them eager to return.Parents are kept in the loop via the app. Easy to navigate, it's great knowing what they have been up to during the day along with how they have slept and what they've eaten.A big thank you to all staff for their enthusiasm and professionalism.
Cha C.
Cha C.
06:07 30 Jan 24
Guardian Childcare Prahran is a true gem!The caring and attentive staff provide a safe environment for our son and give him the opportunity to grow with confidence. We firmly believe that this center provides a secure environment that has facilitated our son's crucial developmental skills.The staff provides daily precise feedback – it is reassuring as parents to know what is going on during the day. We feel we can talk about anything and receive help when needed.The facility is fantastic, featuring a spacious outdoor area, cute animals, and a flourishing veggie garden.We recommend Guardian Childcare Prahran to parents seeking an exceptional childcare experience.
Amanda M.
Amanda M.
03:58 30 Jan 24
I can't say enough positive things about GCE Prahran. Emily, Nina, Phuong, Sandra, Corraine and the team have become like a second family to our little one. The centre is spotless, friendly, cosy and vibrant, while the educators provide a rich and colourful learning experience for our baby, who has thrived since joining. Every little detail is taken care of and, given the small classes, I can rest assured knowing baby is getting attention and personalised care the whole time.
Andrew B.
Andrew B.
01:25 01 Jan 24
Melanie H.
Melanie H.
03:06 16 Nov 21
Bernice T
Bernice T
00:28 28 Apr 21
Our daughter have been attending this facility since she was 7 months old. The environment has been so nurturing and safe. Although it is a small center, the educators make the effort to put up play and learning materials around the theme they are learning that week and change them very regularly to keep the children engage. The educators have so much love and patience for the children, you can feel this when you are there. We also love that they provide regular updates and share pictures of their daily activities. I highly recommend this center!
Michael S.
Michael S.
23:50 27 Apr 21
A great childcare centre. We're very happy with the team of carers. Very personable and they really care for the kids. Can highly recommend.
Lucy F.
Lucy F.
12:56 27 Apr 21
Both of our children love their time with the team. They are smiling each day we leave them. It gives us such piece of mind to have such an incredible and stable team looking after our little ones. The team are consistent which has enabled our kids to create great bonds with the carers. We are lucky to face found such a magical centre.
Amanda J.
Amanda J.
10:03 27 Apr 21
We are so lucky to have our son attend Guardian Prahran!! He absolutely adores all of the staff, they provide amazing care and a supportive learning environment. It is a fantastic set up with a lovely outdoor area for all of the children to play and bond. We couldn't recommend this centre enough, there is no comparison if you are looking for child care in the area.
miso J.
miso J.
04:02 27 Apr 21
The best childcare I ever dreamed of... From the day one when my daughter started, she was welcomed and surrounded by caring teachers. Really lovely place, nice outdoor set up and yummy food. Highly recommend!
Meg J.
Meg J.
02:09 27 Apr 21
I'm so incredibly grateful for the team at Guardian Prahran and couldn't recommend the centre more highly. My son Oscar has attended the centre since he was just over a year old, and I remember feeling so well supported during that transition, particularly as a single mum. Oscar is 2.5y/o now and basically runs in on the days he attends Guardian Prahran! He's learnt so much and has developed strong bonds with all of the educators. It's such a joy to see how much he values his time at the centre and it's been a wonderful experience as a mother to watch him thrive in that setting, too. Thank you so much to everyone at Guardian Prahran.
Katherine M.
Katherine M.
01:31 27 Apr 21
Guardian Early Learning in Prahran is so wonderful. Both our children have started here around 6 months old. I love all the carers and the learning environment. I realise now how lucky we are to go here where class sizes are small compared to other local ELCs. Highly recommend!
David C
David C
22:37 30 Mar 21
Amazing team who care so much for the littlies, provide a nurturing environment, and keep parents well informed. Nothing better than seeing the kids so excited to go to kinder every morning. Thank you Guardian Prahran team.
Rachael B.
Rachael B.
02:25 15 Sep 20
Our daughter loved daycare here. They were very caring, supportive and flexible catering to the individual and ever changing needs of the child.
Renee H.
Renee H.
00:53 10 Aug 18
This daycare centre is so wonderful, great staff retention, our little boy LOVED it there. We moved out of the area and were so sad to have to let go of this centre. No centre has been able to live up to it - we tried two others in the area before High street and I wasn't happy with either of them, the wait list at High Street was originally 18 months, so we were thrilled to get in. We loved every one of the educators there, great indoor and outdoor space, very nurturing, attentive and caring. So many other centres we went to even through the tours had staff who were tuned out and disinterested, I never saw that at High Street - staff always present and on the ball.
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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.

Whilst no two days of learning are ever the same - here's what a day at Guardian might look like.

Handover time with children, families and our friendly Educators. There's a chance for conversation to share what's important for the day/what's happened the night before at home.

Breakfast time where families are welcome to stay and enjoy breakfast with the children.

As children are arriving and families are coming and going, there's an opportunity for play as well as family grouping, open-plan play and multi-age grouping.

There's an opportunity for children to come together and enjoy morning tea.

Following morning tea, the planned experiences continue. This includes both indoor and outdoor programs.

There's an opportunity for children to come together for lunch. With an open-door policy, families are able to join the centre for meals and excursion if they wish.

For children who want to, or need to, there's an opportunity to sleep, rest or relax. For children who don't need to rest, there are planned experiences, which are more likely to be outdoors.

Children come together for afternoon tea in small groups or with siblings (they can also rest and play together, too). This time also presents an opportunity to reflect on the day.

As families arrive to pick up children, there's an opportunity to speak to Educators and share information about the day.

Some centres offer early tea or light snack at the end of the day, which they can grab as they leave the centre. We’re mindful of how routines vary at home, so if throughout the day, we notice children look tired, food will be provided.

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 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?

Prahran Centre Manager Image

Nina and team

Our Centre team, led by our experienced Centre Manager Nina, 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.

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.

Kindergarten Program
Flying start to school

Our Flying Start to School kindergarten program is lead by degree qualified Teachers in a long day care setting. Our specialist two-year program is committed to supporting your child as they prepare for big school. We focus on nurturing their confidence, making friends and social emotional growth while also supporting their abilities in reading, writing, counting, and thinking skills. Whether it’s building with blocks, practicing their first letters, or learning to share with friends, every experience is carefully designed to support your child’s development.

Our Centre is a recipient of funding as part of the VIC Government’s Free Kinder Program. Eligible children aged three years and above will receive up to $2101 in additional subsidies to reduce your out-of-pocket fees. Ask for more details when you tour the centre.

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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