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Open Hours
6:30 am to 6:30 pm
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Welcome to Papilio Early Learning Essendon
At Papilio Essendon, we offer more than just early education - we provide a nurturing, enriching environment where children aged 0–5 years can feel confident, curious, and supported every step of the way. Conveniently located on Keilor Road, our centre is thoughtfully designed to inspire learning through play, guided by our dedicated educators and the exclusive Lifelong Learning Curriculum.
Every day is filled with opportunities for growth, with engaging programs in language, literacy, STEM, and social-emotional development. Children enjoy vibrant indoor learning spaces and a spacious outdoor playground, along with weekly enrichment activities like Happy Feet fitness and IFA sports. We also host regular incursions including dental van visits, library excursions, maternal health check-ups, and celebrations of special cultural events - helping children connect with their community and the world around them.
Families love our extra touches, like our convenient “on-the-go” breakfast buffet and our community pantry, available to all. With a government-approved kindergarten program, healthy meals prepared fresh onsite, and close ties with local schools, we’re here to support your child’s journey from baby to big school and beyond.
Book a tour today and experience the warm, inclusive environment that makes Papilio Essendon a trusted choice for families in our community.
Vacancies Available
Get in contact and start the enrolment process
We're Here to Support You
Choosing the right child care centre is a big decision, and we’re here to make it easy and personal. Call us on 1800 244 532 to book a private tour, meet our passionate educators, and get a tailored quote that suits your family’s needs.
Meet Our Team
With over 15 years of experience in early childhood education, Erin brings a wealth of knowledge, passion, and warmth to her role as Centre Manager at Papilio Essendon. She holds an Advanced Diploma in Children’s Services and has worked across a wide range of roles - Assistant Educator, Room Leader, Centre Director, and Administrator - gaining valuable insight into every aspect of early learning.
Erin is deeply committed to creating a supportive, welcoming environment where children can thrive and families feel confident and connected. She loves being part of the learning journey, watching children grow and explore the world around them, and leading a team that’s as fun as it is dedicated.
One of Erin’s favourite things about her role is celebrating cultural days with the children and families—a joyful way to bring the community together and foster inclusion.
She looks forward to welcoming your family to Papilio Essendon and supporting your child through these important early years.
Everything You Need, All in One Place
Starting your child’s early learning journey can feel overwhelming - but at Papilio, we’re here to make it simple. From understanding fees and the Child Care Subsidy, to knowing what to pack, what your child will eat, and how we’ll keep you updated each day, we’ve gathered everything you need in one convenient place. Visit our For Families page for clear, helpful guidance - whether you’re exploring your options or getting ready for your child’s first day with us.
Start Your Child’s Learning Journey with Us
At Papilio Early Learning, your child will benefit from our exclusive Lifelong Learning Curriculum - Australia’s most advanced approach to early childhood education. Grounded in the latest research and designed to support children from infancy to school readiness, our curriculum nurtures every stage of development through play-based, purposeful learning.
From their very first day, children build strong foundations in communication, confidence, and emotional wellbeing, while engaging in enriching programs that include STEM, early literacy and numeracy, creative arts, and more. It’s not just preparation for school - it’s preparation for life.
Nurturing Growth from 0–5 Years
At Papilio Early Learning, we provide more than care - we deliver high-quality early education in a safe, nurturing, and inspiring environment for children aged six weeks to five years. Our experienced educators tailor learning experiences to each child’s developmental stage, with age-appropriate programs designed to build confidence, curiosity, and a love of learning. With a strong focus on emotional wellbeing and holistic development, we’re here to support your child’s growth - every step of the way.
Babies (0-1 years)
Healthy Beginnings Program
Grounded in attachment theory and relationship practices, this program focuses on building secure, responsive relationships between babies and their educators. With nurturing care and emotional attunement, we support babies’ overall wellbeing and development.
Toddlers (1-3 years)
Early Experiences Program
Inspired by the Abecedarian Approach, our toddler program emphasises language-rich interactions, such as conversational reading and learning games. These early experiences build the foundations for strong communication, social skills, and cognitive growth.
Preschool or Kindergarten (3-5 years)
School Readiness Program
Through Project-Based Learning, children are encouraged to explore big ideas, solve problems, and collaborate with others. This hands-on, inquiry-driven approach develops critical thinking, independence, and a love of learning that lasts.
Committed to Safety & Quality
At Papilio Early Learning, we prioritise your child’s safety, wellbeing, and development every step of the way. Our centres follow robust safety protocols and are guided by the National Quality Framework, ensuring a consistently high standard of care and education in a secure, nurturing environment.
Our Centre Gallery
Why Our Families Love Us
Vacancies Available
Get in contact and start the enrolment process
