Early Learning Centre
What makes our ELC unique?
At Portside Christian College Early Learning Centre, we believe every child is a capable, curious and valued learner. We provide a warm, nurturing and inspiring environment where children from 3 years of age are encouraged to explore, discover and grow with confidence.
Our dedicated Pre-Kindy (3-year-old) and Kindergarten (4-year-old) programs recognise that every child's learning journey is unique. Guided by experienced early childhood educators, children engage in meaningful, play-based experiences that foster creativity, curiosity, resilience and a lifelong love of learning.
Inspired by the Reggio Emilia approach and interpreted through a Biblical worldview, our program encourages children to wonder, investigate and make sense of the world around them. Through intentional teaching and strong relationships, we support each child's social, emotional, cognitive, physical and spiritual development, laying strong foundations for future success.
Operating 48 weeks of the year, our dedicated team provides a rich and engaging learning environment where children feel known, safe and supported every day. Research consistently shows that participating in two years of quality early childhood education gives children the best possible start to their schooling and future learning.
We also believe that families are an essential part of each child's educational journey. By partnering closely with parents and caregivers, we help children transition confidently from home into our learning community and, in time, into Foundation, equipping them with the confidence, relationships and learning behaviours that will support them throughout life.
For more information on our Early Learning Centre or to enquire about enrolment:
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Contact Mrs Alison Thomson, College Registrar
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Direct line (08) 7071 4864
Our Reggio Emilia Approach
At Portside Christian College Early Learning Centre, our integrated play-based program is inspired by the Reggio Emilia approach, which we interpret through a Biblical worldview within our Australian context. We believe children are capable, curious and creative learners who thrive when they are given the time and opportunity to explore, discover, question, predict, wonder, imagine and create.
Rather than following a one-size-fits-all curriculum, we use the Reggio Emilia philosophy to guide our thinking and teaching. By carefully observing children's interests, strengths and curiosities, our educators create meaningful learning experiences that extend their thinking, encourage problem-solving and inspire a lifelong love of learning.
Nature is an important part of our learning environment. We believe the natural world is one of God's greatest classrooms, providing endless opportunities for exploration, creativity and discovery. Through daily outdoor play, gardening, nature-based learning experiences and visits to local environments such as the mangroves, children develop confidence, resilience and a deep appreciation for God's creation. Natural materials and open-ended resources encourage children to investigate, imagine and connect with the world around them in meaningful ways.
By combining the Reggio Emilia philosophy with Christian values and the Australian Early Years Learning Framework, we create an environment where every child is known, valued and supported to flourish academically, socially, emotionally and spiritually.
Pre Kindy program (3yr old)
Every day at our Pre-Kindy program is thoughtfully designed to nurture children's curiosity, confidence and sense of belonging through a balance of play, learning and connection. Guided by the Early Years Learning Framework, children enjoy a predictable routine that helps them feel safe while providing opportunities to explore, discover and grow.
Our day includes:
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Free Play & Discovery – Children begin the day exploring inviting learning spaces including playdough, art, home corner, construction, music and imaginative play, encouraging creativity and independence.
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Morning Gathering – We come together for songs, prayer, wellbeing check-ins and group discussions, helping children build confidence, friendships and a sense of belonging.
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Outdoor Learning – Every day includes time outdoors where children investigate nature, develop physical skills and engage in hands-on experiences through play.
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Christian Living – Children are introduced to God's love through simple prayers, Bible stories, gratitude and exploring God's wonderful creation in nature.
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Shared Meals – Lunch and afternoon tea provide opportunities to build independence, social skills and healthy habits while enjoying time together.
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Music & Movement – Singing, dancing and movement activities encourage self-expression, coordination and plenty of fun.
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Reflection & Gratitude – We finish each day by reflecting on what we are thankful for, sharing special moments and saying goodbye together.
Throughout the day, educators intentionally weave literacy, numeracy, wellbeing, fine motor development and social-emotional learning into children's play, ensuring every experience supports their growth while keeping learning joyful and meaningful.
Kindy Program (4-5 yr old)
Every day in our Kindy program is thoughtfully planned to provide a balance of play, discovery and intentional learning. Through a combination of child-led exploration and educator-guided experiences, children develop confidence, creativity, independence and the skills they need for a successful transition to school.
Our day includes:
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Morning Exploration – Children begin the day engaging in a variety of play-based experiences including creative arts, construction, imaginative play, reading, sensory activities and collaborative learning invitations.
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Intentional Learning – Educators guide children through meaningful experiences that build early literacy, numeracy, communication and critical thinking skills while encouraging curiosity and a love of learning.
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Christian Learning – Bible stories, prayer and conversations about God's love, kindness and caring for others are naturally woven throughout the day, helping children develop strong Christian values.
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Friendships & Wellbeing – Group discussions, cooperative play and shared experiences help children build positive relationships, express their emotions and develop confidence, resilience and empathy.
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Creative & Collaborative Play – Through art, construction, dramatic play and group games, children strengthen their imagination, communication and problem-solving skills while learning to work together.
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Stories & Reflection – Story sharing, discussions and opportunities to reflect encourage language development, curiosity and meaningful connections with their learning and one another.
Our consistent daily routine provides children with a strong sense of belonging and security while inspiring them to explore, discover and grow every day.
ELC fees
Portside Christian College Early Learning Centre is an approved Long Day Care service for children aged 3 to 5 years. Our centre operates Monday to Friday from 7:15am to 6:00pm, with a four-week closure over the Christmas holiday period.
Our daily fee is $152, and families may be eligible to apply for the Australian Government Child Care Subsidy (CCS) to significantly reduce their out-of-pocket costs, depending on their individual circumstances.
Our daily fee includes:
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All excursions, incursions and educational learning experiences
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Breakfast served between 7:15am and 8:00am
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A healthy afternoon snack provided after 4:30pm
Children are asked to bring their own morning tea, lunch and a water bottle each day.
We are committed to providing exceptional value through high-quality education, enriching experiences and a caring environment where every child can learn, grow and thrive.
Join an ELC tour
An ELC group tour offers a firsthand experience of the welcoming community and engaging learning environment that make Portside Christian College ELC a special place for young learners.
During the tour, families will meet our ELC Director, Miss Cassandra De Cristofaro, and explore our thoughtfully designed indoor and outdoor learning spaces, they will see how creativity, play, and growth are encouraged through our Reggio Emilia-inspired approach, Christian values, and play-based learning philosophy. The tour also provides an opportunity to ask questions and gain a deeper understanding of how we support each child’s early learning journey.
ELC private tours by appointment.
Learn more about our ELC
Our ELC is so much more than a Long Day Care centre. As part of the Portside Christian College community, we provide enriching experiences that help children feel connected, confident and ready for the future.
Discover more about:
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ELC Playgroup – A wonderful way for children and families to connect.
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Consistent Educators – Building trusted relationships with familiar faces.
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Excursions – Exploring the College campus and our local community.
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Holiday Program – Fun, engaging experiences during term breaks.
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Parent & Grandparent Involvement – Creating meaningful partnerships with families.
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Foundation Transition Program – Supporting a confident start to school.
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Personalised Documentation – Sharing your child's learning journey through Storypark.
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ELC Uniform – Fostering a sense of belonging and community from the very beginning.
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Starting at our ELC – Learn what to expect as your family joins our community.
At Portside, every experience is designed to inspire learning, build relationships and help every child thrive.
ELC Playgroup
Our ELC Playgroup is a welcoming space where children can explore, play and become familiar with our ELC environment, while parents have the opportunity to connect with one another.
Each session includes music, stories and engaging play experiences, with tea and coffee available for parents to relax, chat and build lasting friendships within our community.
Consistent Educators
We know that strong relationships are the foundation of a child's learning and wellbeing. That's why we provide consistent educators in each room, allowing children to build trusting relationships with familiar faces who know them, understand their individual needs and celebrate their unique strengths.
This continuity creates a secure and nurturing environment where children feel safe, confident and supported to explore, learn and thrive. It also fosters strong partnerships with families, ensuring open communication and a shared understanding of each child's learning journey.
Excursions
Our Kindy children love exploring beyond the ELC, with regular excursions that extend their learning and curiosity.
Being part of the Portside Christian College community gives us access to wonderful spaces including the College library, oval and nature playground, while visits to the nearby mangroves provide hands-on opportunities to discover the natural world.
These experiences encourage confidence, connection and a lifelong love of learning through real-world exploration.
Holiday Program
Our Holiday Program is filled with exciting experiences that keep children engaged, active and connected throughout the term breaks. Each program is thoughtfully planned to provide a balance of fun, creativity and adventure, with activities that may include excursions, bouncy castles, wheels days, dance and soccer clinics, bonfires with toasted marshmallows, and exclusive visits to the Green Monkey Play Café.
Children also enjoy opportunities to connect with the wider community through a variety of special experiences, creating lasting memories while continuing to learn, explore and build friendships in a safe and nurturing environment.
Parent and Grandparent involvement
We value the special role that families play in our ELC and warmly welcome parents, grandparents and other loved ones to be part of our community. Whether it's reading stories, cooking with the children or sharing a special skill, our volunteers enrich our learning experiences and strengthen the connections that make our ELC so special.
Throughout the year, we invite families to celebrate alongside us at special events including Grandparents Day, Mother's Day, Father's Day and Book Week, creating meaningful opportunities for children to share their learning and make lasting memories with those they love.
If you would like to become part of our volunteer program, the application process is simple. Please contact elc@portside.sa.edu.au for more information.
Foundation Transition Program
We believe a positive start to school begins well before the first day of Foundation. Throughout their Kindergarten year, our children become familiar with many aspects of Portside Christian College through regular visits to the College library, oval, nature playground and other shared spaces, helping them feel confident and at home in their future learning environment.
To build excitement and confidence, our Year 5 students regularly visit the ELC to read, play and connect with our Kindergarten children, fostering friendships and creating a sense of belonging within the wider College community.
As children prepare to graduate, they participate in a structured transition program that introduces them to their Foundation teachers, classrooms and routines for the following year. We are committed to supporting every child, whether they are continuing their journey at Portside Christian College or transitioning to another school, working closely with families to ensure a smooth and positive start to the next stage of their learning.
Personalised documentation
At Portside Christian College Early Learning Centre, we use Storypark to keep families connected with their child's learning journey. This secure online platform allows our educators to share photos, learning stories and updates, giving you a window into your child's day and celebrating their growth and achievements.
Storypark also provides a simple and secure way for families and educators to communicate, helping us work together to support each child's individual learning and development.
For more information about Storypark, please speak with one of our ELC educators or contact us at elc@portside.sa.edu.au
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