Cambridge Road Play and Learn Centre

Today marks the beginning of our Harmony Week celebrations - recognising diversity, inclusiveness, culture, respect and belonging.
Regardless of background, we are all united by a set of core values.

In SRP there was a vibrant discussion on “What is Harmony?”…

Emerson said respect. Henry said being kind.
George thinks it’s about playing with your friends, and Finley said it’s sharing and caring.
For Eloise, it means love. Elvie said it’s saying how you feel. 🧡

Attention Parents and Road Users nearby; access to the Centre is currently restricted on Cambridge Road, with no vehicles allowed between Edgeworth St and Zeehan St.
Please observe directions from Emergency personnel and drive carefully.

In a profession largely occupied by women, we honor, recognise and value - the contributions, the advice and practice and the pathways paved for progress, equity, and inclusivity by the strong, fearless females who have gone before us, walk with us now and will follow in the future.

“Balance the Scales”, the official theme for International Women’s Day (IWD) 2026, highlights the urgent need to ensure fair, inclusive, and accessible justice for every woman and girl.

21 years ago today, on 21 February 2005, I opened the front door of Cambridge Road Play and Learn Centre. There was excitement, fresh paint, brand new equipment, little faces and families waiting to enter!

It was the beginning of a journey! A long, winding road, smooth in sections, dips and bumps in others, messy in the right way, and brimming with nurture, inclusivity, connection, trust, compassion and of course - play and learning!

The past two decades have seen huge changes and challenges in the Early Childhood field. We adopt each change with respect, openness and a commitment to the crucial importance of the early years. Every challenge has been an opportunity to advocate stronger, reflect deeper, and own our daily practice with authenticity.

The people of the past 21 years, make Cambridge Road what it is today.

The dedicated, intuitive, kind Staff and Educators who just, ‘know’! They know when it’s a lavender scented play-dough with petals, leaves and patterned rollers kind of day, and they know the moment an interpretive dance party with bubbles, streamers and clapping sticks is called for! They know the children, more importantly they ‘see’ them and ensure each child belongs, they encourage them to be their own unique self, and they equip them to become the absolute best they can!

The families who trust us to partner with them in caring for their precious children - who share their beliefs, culture, their hopes and fears, their parenting styles, and a build relationship that is the Cambridge Road Family, continuing long after their children finish care.

The local community and its members who champion us, and believe in us - who share their resources, references, advice and recommendations - whose doors are always open to us.

And the thousands of children during 21 years - whose curiosity and wonder, pure joy, giggles, hugs/handshakes/high fives, whose play and learning, fill the Centre every single day. We are forever grateful for the privilege of being part of your early years.

21 Years later.
I have encountered and experienced people and places who have, and continue, to formulate my career in Early Childhood Education and Care.
I’ve learned a lot, I’ve been inspired, and I hope I’ve been an inspiration?!
There have been tears (sometimes mine!) but there has been so much laughter.
There are hard days - crushing, painful, exhausting days.
Then there are days - the light in a child’s eyes, the relief on a parent’s face, the pride in an Educator - those are the days that really count.
I’m older (we’ll call it ‘more experienced’), maybe wiser?!, and I’m hopeful.
I treasure the past, I’m grateful for the present - my fabulous team, fantastic parents, beautiful children, supportive community, and I’m excited for the future.

With memories made, a bright future ahead, and heartfelt gratitude, love and thanks,
Jackie ❤️

A very Happy (belated!) January Birthday to these Beauties - Aimee, Teresa, Kayla!
💖💖💖

Happy Birthday to Chloe! 🌻

The hands might be little, however the fine motor manipulation, the social communication, the language development and vivid imagination, is HUGE!
In Toddlers today, we made play dough chocolate cookies with extra sugar on top, and noodles - then long pasta. The conversation moved on to snappy crabs and then a really long slithering snake!
We asked “Can I use the scoop when you’re finished please?” And we said “You can have the heart shape now if you like?”
Supervised, supported from the sidelines, embedded play and invested learning.

Today we welcomed back Julie Collins MP who has visited us regularly over the years to discuss all things Early Childhood Education and Care!
It’s good to talk about relevant State and Federal Government portfolios and policies and demonstrate how these are being implemented at workforce level.

Summer is finally here! ☀️

It it’s important to stay safe by;
Wearing a sun hat, sunglasses and light, long, loose clothing
Applying sunscreen
Hydrating - drinking water regularly
Staying out of direct sun
Using fans or air conditioners
Closing blinds/curtains and windows
Never leaving children, the elderly and pets in cars

Remember to check on grandparents, neighbours, pregnant friends, and other vulnerable people. 💛

As 2025 draws to a close, we reflect on the celebrations and challenges of the past year.
Through this journey our connections have strengthened and our respect has deepened. We see kindness all around, which we will spread further in the new year, sharing experiences and lots of fun!
Through the eyes of our children, the sun is shining brightly, the rainbows appear - sometimes when we least expect it, and there are many play and learning opportunities waiting for us in 2026!
Happy New Year, everyone. ❤️

We can’t let this year end without celebrating the 20th Anniversary of our Noel, Noely, Poppy Noel, Dad (to Jackie), real Pop (to Hollie)!

For the past 20 Years, Noel has fixed and mended and swept and vacced and painted and glued and carried and delivered - our toys, equipment, environments, and sometimes - staff!

The best surrogate Poppy for our little people.
The friendliest face you’ll see in the Centre carpark, very early in the mornings, rain hail or shine.

Thank you for all you do Noel.
So much for early retirement!
💙🧹🔨🪣🪚🗜️🔧

Happy Birthday Alannah! 🌸