Philosophy + Team
At Goanna Patch we acknowledge the Dharawal people, the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we learn and play. We pay our respects to Elders past, present and emerging, and commit to teaching children how to care for Country—its land, plants, insects and animals.
We believe children are capable, confident learners whose voices guide our curriculum. Play is central to their learning, supported through both spontaneous and intentional experiences.
We are committed to respectful, responsive relationships with children, families and educators. Families are children’s first teachers, and together we build a circle of security where everyone feels safe, valued and connected.
We embrace diversity, equity and inclusion, ensuring all children feel a strong sense of identity and belonging. Through inclusive practice, children learn to respect difference, recognise bias, and challenge discrimination.
We embed sustainable practices every day, encouraging children to think critically about their impact and make choices that support a healthier future.
Children’s health, safety and rights are at the heart of our practice. We empower them with knowledge, skills and confidence to regulate emotions, keep themselves safe, and have a voice in matters that affect them.
At Goanna Patch, we nurture curious, compassionate children who feel a deep connection to people, place and community.
Our Story
Goanna Patch was created with a simple vision — to provide Bundeena families with a warm, nurturing early learning space where children feel safe, valued and inspired to learn through play.
As a small community-based service, we see ourselves as an extension of the family, walking alongside parents in their child’s early years.
Our name reflects our connection to the natural environment that surrounds us in Bundeena and the Royal National Park. Here, children explore, discover and develop a deep respect for nature and for the Dharawal land on which we live, learn and play.
At Goanna Patch, our values guide everything we do:
Belonging
Creating a safe, inclusive space where every child and
family feels at home.
Curiosity
Encouraging children to wonder, explore and question
the world around them.
Respect
For each other, for diversity, and for our environment.
Community
Building strong partnerships with families and
celebrating the spirit of Bundeena.
We are proud to be part of this close-knit community and to contribute to raising the next generation of curious, confident and compassionate learners.
About Us
Nestled in the heart of Bundeena, Goanna Patch is a warm and welcoming early learning community where children are valued, respected and celebrated for who they are. We believe every child is a capable learner with their own unique strengths, voice and curiosity.
At Goanna Patch, play is at the centre of everything we do. Through exploration, creativity and meaningful relationships, children build confidence, resilience and a strong sense of belonging. Our educators partner closely with families to nurture each child’s growth, wellbeing and love of learning.
We are committed to inclusion, sustainability and a deep respect for the land of the Dharawal people, teaching children to care for their world and community.
At Goanna Patch, children grow curious, confident and connected — ready to take on life’s journey with joy.