The Heritage Community Heritage Early Childhood Centre was established in 1980 as a childcare service run by parents. In 1989, Heritage became fully staffed by early education professionals. The Director, in line with the decisions of the parent-run Management Committee, is responsible for management of the Centre.
We are a small, community-based, not-for-profit service, providing high quality early education and care for 57 children (from 6 weeks to school age) with priority given to staff and students at the Australian National University (ANU). We take great pride in providing a welcoming, family atmosphere where families and educators work together in the best interests of the children. As of February 2025, Heritage will operate from new, nearby premises, raising our numbers to 88 children per day.
Opening hours are from 7:45am to 5:45pm, Monday to Friday throughout the year, except for public holidays, educator training days and a two-week period over Christmas/New Year.
Heritage prides itself on our 'Exceeding' National Quality Standard Rating and low staff turnover. We are very lucky to have a diverse community made up of families and educators who embrace the learning of culture through love and acceptance.
Heritage is located in Canberra, at the southern end of the Australian National University (ANU). We are in a quiet, leafy part of the campus, just a short walk from the shores of Lake Burley Griffin (close to Acton Peninsula). Our aim is to ensure each child is given a chance to play, discover and grow in an atmosphere of care and mutual respect where the dignity and rights of the child are preserved at all times. We are committed to teaching children to care and respect the land of the local indigenous people and to love all the beauty and freedom it has to offer. We believe that children develop a stronger sense of community through a physical connection with nature and natural environments. While we are very much aware of children’s safety, we are equally aware of the importance of risk taking and challenging young children.
Some of the amazing experiences offered at Heritage include campfires, yoga and learning Mandarin. These are delivered by our talented and passionate educators who understand that learning can occur at any moment throughout the day.