Set within the beautiful grounds of Caloundra City Private School in Pelican Waters, CCPS Little Learners offers a holistic early childhood education program for children aged 2+ years to kindergarten.
Combining nurturing care with a play-based approach, the centre supports every aspect of a child’s development while providing access to the wider school community, facilities and resources.
Fabiola Maciel, Director of the Centre, says the vision for Little Learners has always been to create more than a childcare service.
“At CCPS Little Learners, we believe early childhood should be a place where children feel connected, valued, capable and inspired to learn,” she said.
“Our goal is to bridge early childhood education with the school environment in a meaningful and age-appropriate way, helping children develop a strong sense of belonging from their earliest years.”
This connection with the CCPS main school allows children to build familiarity, confidence and positive relationships well before they transition into Prep.
Being part of a school community gives children room to grow. With access to facilities and learning environments beyond those typically available in an early learning setting — including the school library, hall and extensive outdoor spaces — Little Learners can deliver specialised programs tailored to age-appropriate development.
These experiences build confidence and school readiness early on. Examples include the Love of Learning Program, Little Explorers (Bush Kindy & Nature Classroom) and the Little Athletes Program.
At CCPS Little Learners, children are viewed as capable, curious and competent learners who thrive through exploration, creativity, relationships and meaningful experiences.
Rather than focusing solely on structured teaching, educators observe children’s interests and use them to guide projects and learning opportunities.
“This approach aligns strongly with our School Readiness Program,” Fabiola said.
“By encouraging children to think critically, communicate effectively, build confidence and resilience, and become independent learners, we are supporting the foundational skills they need for a successful transition into Prep and beyond.”
Nature-based learning also plays a central role. Through initiatives such as Little Explorers Bush Kindy, the Nature Classroom, nature play spaces and permaculture gardens, children develop independence, creativity and problem-solving skills through hands-on experiences.
“Natural environments provide opportunities for risk assessment, collaboration, emotional regulation and mindfulness,” she said.
“We also see significant wellbeing benefits, with outdoor learning often creating calmer environments where children can move freely while engaging their senses and imagination.”
Strong educator-child relationships are another cornerstone of the program. Consistent educators help children build trust, confidence and emotional security while providing stability through routines, transitions and learning challenges.
“These relationships are equally important for families,” Fabiola said.
“Having familiar educators creates stronger communication and partnerships between home and the centre.”
Preparing children for school is a carefully planned process. Through enrolment interviews, observation visits, Stay & Play sessions, the Step Into Prep program and close collaboration between Little Learners educators and Prep teachers, staff develop an understanding of each child’s strengths, interests and support needs.
Importantly, the focus is not on testing children but on ensuring every child receives personalised support to transition confidently into school.
“Our vision has always been to create continuity for children and families, where relationships, learning philosophies and wellbeing support continue seamlessly across each stage of education,” she said.
To learn more or to book a tour, visit: ccps.qld.edu.au.
