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Guardian Childcare Sydenham

Google Reviews

(73)
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  • Safety always comes first at Guardian Childcare. Every member of the team is fully committed to upholding our child safety approach,ensuring a safe environment for all children.
  • We’re the proud winner of the GOLD Family Choice Award 2026, based on ratings from the Family Satisfaction Survey and independent Google Reviews.
  • Our Sydenham centre has newly refurbished indoor spaces, with an expansive outdoor area, complete with a bike track, sandpit, and a veggie garden.
  • Our centre feels like home, where each day is exciting, from our nursery to our leading 2-year kindergarten program.

354 Sydenham Road Sydenham, VIC, 3037

Mon to Fri 6:30am to 6:30pm

Spaces available now across rooms

Premium Sydenham Childcare Centre

Sydenham Centre Manager Image

Meet our Centre Manager Cary and team

"At Sydenham we role model positive relationships with children and families by being supportive, approachable and acknowledging everyone as individuals."

Daily Fees

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

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Guardian's Flying Start to School program delivers a Government-approved Kindergarten program within long day care hours, providing flexibility, holiday coverage, continuity of Educators and access to the same Government funding available through other providers. Read more >

At Guardian Sydenham, your family is at the heart of all we do. Our daycare centre offers a nurturing environment and high-quality education for the communities of Sydenham, Taylors Lakes, and Keilor Lodge.

From our nursery through to our government-funded Flying Start to School long daycare kindergarten program, we provide a place where your child’s learning and growth are celebrated.

The families of Sydenham and surrounding suburbs choose our centre because of our inspiring indoor spaces, filled with quality, age-appropriate resources, and our personalised, sector-leading To BE Me learning milestones program.

We provide a premium daycare where your child’s safety and wellbeing is our priority.

We Care More. The Guardian Difference.

A new era in early learning.

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Premium Learning Spaces

Inspiring environments for curious minds.

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Where care meets peace of mind.

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Building lifelong healthy habits with every bite.

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2 year Preschool / Kinder program for school readiness.

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Partnership with families & community

Stay connected, every step of the way.

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To Be Me

A new era in early learning. To BE Me is our exclusive learning program designed for each age & stage of a child's first years, tailored to their age, interests & strengths. Their pathway is personalised, with every milestone captured to makes the link between play & learning clear & memorable.

Google Reviews

(73)
Afsana H.
1 month ago
I have had my children here since nursery, the enducators are nuturing and very welcoming, with amazing experiences that interest my children. Thank you to all the amazing educators at Guardian Sydenham.
Response from the owner:Afsana, thank you for your kind words and for trusting us to be part of your children's journey since nursery. It's wonderful to hear that our educators have created such a nurturing and welcoming environment and that the engaging learning experiences continue to spark your children's interests. We'll be sure to share your lovely feedback with the team, who will be so grateful for your recognition.
Rinki A.
4 months ago
My first one was in their care for 4 years before we moved our house and trust me their service is amazing and they put their best efforts for raising the apple of my eye. I never had any issue regarding any area of their service. Every information is up to date , every room is well prepared and all kids thrive in their care. I highly recommend them as they help each mother whose kid in their care by giving their awesome care.
Response from the owner:Thank you Rinki for your kind and heartfelt feedback, we’re so glad your child had such a positive experience over the four years and that you felt supported and confident in every aspect of their care, it’s wonderful to hear you valued the communication, well prepared environments and the way children thrive, we truly appreciate your recommendation and trust in us.
Kristina S.
9 months ago
I absolutely love that this facility has pretty much all the same staff and centre manager from 12 years ago from my nieces attending and now my own 2 boys. The staff are dedicated and caring to all the children. Freshly cooked meals on site, multiple areas of play and learning experiences. Thank you for being a wonderful support for my boys.
Response from the owner:Thank you, Kristina! We’re so pleased you’ve had such a positive experience and appreciate the continuity of our dedicated team over the years. It’s wonderful to hear you value the freshly cooked meals, multiple play areas, and learning experiences. Thank you for trusting us with your boys and sharing your kind words!
Rob J.
9 months ago
This centre is amazing, the center manager runs a tight ship and as a result her staff members have been hand picked to up hold a high standard in child care. You only just need to stroll thru the centre to notice the staff here don't leave, they are all long term, which indicates a great environment and a great centre for the kids and the staff. After 7 yrs dealing with this centre, its gonna be sad to say goodbye to the lovely staff, because they truly has been like family tasked with looking after and raising our kids !
Response from the owner:Thank you, Rob, for sharing such a heartfelt review. After 7 years with us, your words mean so much. We’re thrilled to hear you value the centre manager’s leadership and the stability of the long-term team, creating a consistent, caring environment is something we prioritise. Knowing the educators have felt like family and played such an important role in your children’s lives is incredibly special. Thank you for your trust and support over the years. We’ll miss your family and wish you all the best in the next chapter.
Shafi H.
9 months ago
Our daughter loves going to her kinder and she returns happy every time big thank you to whole team especially Amanda,Neha and Natalie
Response from the owner:Thank you, Shafi, for your lovely feedback. We’re so pleased to hear your daughter loves attending and comes home happy every time. Your recognition of the whole team, especially Amanda, Neha, and Natalie, means so much, we’ll be sure to share your kind words with them. Thank you for your support!
Stacey S.
9 months ago
Great place to take your children Great healthy food 😋 Highly rate this center
Response from the owner:Thank you, Stacey, for your lovely feedback. We’re thrilled to hear you highly rate the centre and appreciate the healthy meals provided. Creating a safe, nurturing environment with nutritious food and engaging experiences is always our goal, and we’re so glad this has been your experience. Thank you for your support!
Jacinta P.
1 year ago
I cannot speak more highly of Guardian Sydenham. We travel 25 minutes each way to attend this centre, and honestly, we wouldn’t go anywhere else. They’ve set the standard for what great care looks like. I was really anxious when my son first started in the nursery room, but the educators made me feel at ease straight away. They’ve always treated him with so much care and kindness that it feels like he is being cared for by loved ones. Over the last year and a half, every educator he’s had has been nothing short of amazing, from his regular educators to those filling in during breaks, who have gotten to know him so well. They all know him by first name and are always greeting him when crossing paths in the hallways. I would especially like to recognise educator, Tina, who has been especially incredible. Her genuine empathy, patience and commitment to her role has been unmatched. She truly goes above and beyond, not only for my son, but for all the children. All of my sons past and current educators have been nothing short of amazing, and we feel so incredibly lucky to have them in our lives. Centre management, Carey and Bianca, have also been fantastic. They’ve always been approachable and quick to respond to any questions or small issues, which gives us real peace of mind. Overall, a truly amazing centre! Can’t recommend it enough!
Response from the owner:It means so much to us that you choose to travel 25 minutes each way just to be part of our centre—that kind of commitment speaks volumes, and we’re honoured to be your chosen place of care. Knowing that we’ve set the standard for what great care looks like for your family is the highest compliment we could receive. We understand how emotional and nerve-wracking it can be to leave your little one in someone else’s care, especially in those early nursery days. We’re so glad our educators were able to ease your anxiety and make you feel supported from the very beginning. Your son is such a joy to care for, and it’s been wonderful watching him grow and thrive over the past year and a half. A special shout-out to Tina—your words about her empathy, patience, and dedication are spot on. She truly embodies the spirit of Guardian Sydenham, and we’ll make sure she sees your kind recognition. And of course, Carey and Bianca will be so touched to hear how their approachability and responsiveness have given you peace of mind. We feel incredibly lucky to have families like yours in our community. Thank you again for your trust, your kind words, and for being such an important part of our centre. We look forward to continuing this journey with you and your son.
Deran A.
1 year ago
Great Center. They very welcoming of my 5 yo son. Definitely 5 star service
Response from the owner:Thank you so much for your review! We're pleased to hear that you and your son had a great experience at our centre. Our team takes pride in creating a welcoming environment for all our families. Your kind words and 5-star rating mean a lot to us!
marina H.
1 year ago
Both my children attended guardian childcare Sydenham and I have nothing but positive things to say. From the day we toured until our children finished attending childcare the staff have been nothing but fantastic to us and our family. Our children loved going to childcare and it was so nice to have our children enjoy childcare. A massive thank you to everyone at guardian for being so wonderful.
Response from the owner:Thank you so much for your heartfelt review Marina! Our team strives to create a welcoming and nurturing environment, and it’s wonderful to know that our efforts have made a difference for your family. It’s especially heartwarming to hear that your children loved coming to our centre, their smiles and enthusiasm brighten our days! Your kind words mean the world to us and inspire us to continue providing the best care possible. We wish your family all the best and hope to see you again in the future!
Indika M.
2 years ago
liz S.
2 years ago
Very happy. One of the best experience so far in regard of child care, Teacher Amreet is amazing lovely and so much caring. My child never get too dirty like other places i have previously experienced. Thanks to Amreet Supreet Ayesha for your amazing care to my kid.
Response from the owner:Thank you for your feedback about our centre in Sydenham! We are happy to hear such good things about you and your little one’s experience with us. At Guardian, we’re all about partnering with our families to deliver the best quality outcomes for our children and really appreciate your review.
Rachel O.
2 years ago
I am very pleased with the care my son has received at this service. From the initial visit , orientation and first few days of care I felt at ease knowing he was in safe hands. The educators were very loving and genuine and this hasn't change as he continues to attend. I would highly recommend this service. Your child will be well looked after by caring and well knowledgeable educators.
Response from the owner:Thanks for the awesome review, Rachel! We work hard to meet expectations like yours, and always strive to find ways to improve our centres. Glad to you hear you have had such a great experience!
Natasha S.
2 years ago
cinthia C.
2 years ago
We are very happy with the care and welcoming environment for both our sons in nursery 1 and prekinder rooms. The team is lovely, welcoming and friendly to talk to. The management team always try to assist in anything they can. I recommend this centre to everyone. Thank you to all the guardian team you are amazing 👏
Response from the owner:Thanks for the awesome review, Cinthia! We work hard to meet expectations like yours, and always strive to find ways to improve our centres. Glad to you hear you have had such a great experience!
Charlene G.
3 years ago
I would like to personally thank both of you and to the whole team at Sydenham Guardian. You girls go above and beyond with your families, and I will never forget your center as it really has become a second home for my boys. Both Josh and I always felt that the boys were well taken care of and that they have thrived so much during their time there. We wish you nothing but the best in the future and a very Merry Christmas and New Year!
Response from the owner:Thank you Charlene for your great review for our centre in Sydenham. We are so happy to hear that we are meeting your expectations. We will continue to provide the best possible care for out families and children 😊
Renee G.
3 years ago
My child always enjoys her time here. Activities are educational and engaging, and the atmosphere in the room is calm, controlled and happy. They have routine and rules which greatly helps prepare children for the future (prep)
Response from the owner:Thank you Renee for your 5-star rating for our centre in Sydenham. We really appreciate your positive review and look forward to creating a great experience at Guardian over many more days to come!
Helena N.
3 years ago
Son has been with them for 2.5 years and he's flourishing. Feels like having a sleeper agent in the house, I'll say a random word and all of a sudden he's dancing and singing a song I've never seen or heard. Love it so much XD
Response from the owner:Thank you for your 5-star rating of our centre in Sydenham. We really appreciate your positive review and look forward to creating a great experience at Guardian for many more days to come! ​
PEP'S RUBBISH R.
3 years ago
Carina B.
3 years ago
I was lucky enough to have my daughter cared for by the staff at Guardian Childcare Sydenham. Not only did they care for my daughter, but they treated me as part of thier extended family. As a first time mum, they supported us both. We started there when my daughter was 5 months old until she left after Kindergarten. I never had to worry that my daughter wasn't getting proper care and love. We still now (2 years on), go and visit the educators, who always welcome us with open arms.
Response from the owner:Carina, thank you for the review! We’re so happy you loved your experience and can’t wait to have you back at our centre with your little one. Until then, we’re here if you need anything 😊
Mia N.
4 years ago
My son has been attending here since 10 months old. Have always had such a great experience. The communication is great, always get updates with his day and photos of what he did. If they are ever concerned about him they call. I can always call also to get any updates. He has just moved to the older room and it’s been an easy transition. Would highly recommend this centre, he’s had the same staff from day 1 and only just changed now as he’s moved rooms.
Response from the owner:Thank you Mia for your great review for our centre in Sydenham. We are so happy to hear that we are meeting your expectations. We will continue to provide the best possible care for our families and children 😊
Sarmad A.
4 years ago
Tania R.
4 years ago
The staff are amazing, very caring and friendly. Always easy to deal with and to talk to. The centre is clean and filled with displays of art from the children which is always nice to see. Would recommend the centre to everyone. Also love the excursions and incursions they have for the children.
Cyndi Z.
4 years ago
The educators at Guardian Sydenham are second to none. The care they provide on a daily basis to my two girls is just amazing. Specifically Grace, Nat, Kahliah, Emma, Christina the list goes on. We are kept involved and informed as parents with newsletters . Nothing is ever too much trouble. The rooms are filled with artwork and happiness. My older daughter previously went to another childcare centre and they just do not compare! My only regret is I didn’t move her sooner!! Thank you Cary, Bianca and all the Guardian Sydenham team
Response from the owner:Thank you for your feedback about our centre in Sydenham! We are happy to hear such good things about you and your little one’s experience with us. At Guardian, we’re all about partnering with our families to deliver the best quality outcomes for our children and really appreciate your review.
Michela P.
4 years ago
Sarah C.
4 years ago
Fantastic educators that take an interest in my child’s learning and development. I can tell that each educator has made the effort to develop a bond with my child and that she feels connected to her educators. Vera, Manisha & Aimee go above and beyond to ensure every child in their care get the attention and support they need and encourage each child’s individuality and interests.

Rhythm of the Day

We know children and families like routine, so you will always receive a warm welcome each morning and an invitation to stay for breakfast. At the end of the day, a smooth transition is assured with your child’s belongings ready for you after a day that fulfils your child's interests and curiosity. In between, the day is filled with new and exciting experiences to engage young minds as part of their early childhood education. Here’s a glimpse of what a day of play-based learning at our childcare centre often looks like.

Morning

Breakfast time provides a great chance for you to share what is important and how your baby’s night at home was.

Mid-Morning

Your baby will enjoy engaging in both our indoor and outdoor nursery environments with planned experiences like songs and story time, followed by morning tea.

Middle of the Day

Your baby’s lunch times will suit their needs, and with our open-door policy, families are welcome to enjoy lunch/bottle time with your baby. When your baby is ready, they are gently settled for sleep and rest.

Mid-Afternoon

Our planned indoor and outdoor nursery experiences continue with the chance for movement, games and more books and songs, with an afternoon snack provided.

End of Day

The Nursery team are eager to share information about your baby’s day and their learning, preparing you and your baby for a smooth transition to your evening.

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) $162.08 $69.69 $38.90
Toddler (2–3) $162.08 $69.69 $38.90
Kinder (3–5) $159.40 $68.54 $38.26

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. Ask for more details when you tour the centre.

What do you provide?

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

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.

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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