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FAQ’s
What ages does The Ridge cater for?
We cater for children aged from six weeks to six years.
What are the operating hours?
We are open from 7:30 am to 6:00 pm, Monday to Friday. We're not open on weekends or public holidays
Do the children receive meals?
Absolutely, all our meals are homemade and we source organic ingredients whenever possible. We provide morning tea, lunch, afternoon tea and a late snack as required.
We have our own experienced and qualified chef creating fresh, healthy meals for your children. A nutritious diet is vital for children’s development, so we make sure to provide meals that give children all the nutrients and energy they need. Children love to eat together, so the meal times at the centre are always fun!
Are nappies provided for babies and toddlers?
We provide nappies but It’s totally ok to bring your own.
How do I find out more about The Ridge Preschool and Childcare Centre?
You can find out more by making an appointment to visit our centre – we welcome enquiries at any time. You can book a tour here or phone 02-9543-8904.
What happens after I submit an enquiry form online?
After you have submitted your enquiry form, we will:
• call you back
• discuss your child's specific needs
• discuss what vacancies are available,
• if no places are available we will then add you to The Ridge's waitlist.
How do I enrol at The Ridge Preschool and Childcare Centre?
When you enrol at The Ridge, we'll support you every step of the way. Our Centre Manager will invite you to take a tour of the centre first so you can see where your child will be cared for and to ensure you are comfortable with your decision. The enrollment paperwork will provide us with information we need about your child including their routine, etc. We encourage you to ask as many questions as you like, we are here to support both you and your child.
How is the waitlist managed?
If there are no vacancies at The Ridge, you may want to join our waiting list. These waitlists are regularly reviewed and families are contacted once a place becomes available. If you wish to no longer be on The Ridge's waitlist then you can remove yourself by contacting us. Priority is given in accordance with government guidelines.
Can I view what activities my child is involved in at the centre ?
Yes. We use the Xplor centre management system and you can download their Home App to receive all sorts of information on what they are doing including photos!
Can I enrol online?
Yes. Let's Get Started.
It's also important for families to come see and experience our centres firsthand. A tour is your chance to meet the staff and discuss your needs one-on-one with the Centre Manager We'll then be able to help with your enrolment and settling in your child.
How much does it cost to send my child to The Ridge Preschool and Childcare Centre?
Fees vary depending on the age of your child as well as your eligibility for any government subsidies (refer below). Our fees before deduction of government subsidy are:
0-2 years $155
2-3 years $140
3-6 years $135
A non-refundable admin fee of $125 once the enrolment is accepted.
What government rebates and benefits are available to families?
The Child Care Subsidy (CCS) is a payment offered by the Australian Government for which you may be eligible. To find out if you are eligible for CSS visit the Department of Human Services website humanservices.gov.au or ring them on 136150. Depending on your personal circumstances, there may also be other government funding available.
What if our family or a friend’s family is experiencing financial hardship?
Where a family is experiencing temporary financial hardship additional government support may be available for up to 13 weeks of free care. Please feel free to chat with our Centre Manager for further details.
For more information please visit the website
What happens if my scheduled day falls on a public holiday?
The Ridge closes for public holidays. Fees are payable for public holidays however families are offered a makeup day if taken within one month, and there is a spot available on the date requested.
Do I still need to pay for a scheduled day if my child is sick?
Yes, fees still apply for sick days. The Child Care Subsidy will cover up to 42 absence days a year with no documentation and unlimited sick days if you're able to provide a medical certificate or similar.
What happens when we go on holidays?
Normal fees apply for all absences (excluding Public Holidays) that fall on a usual day of attendance. However The Ridge offers a holiday discount for up to four weeks of care per financial year. Please note families need to provide written notification two weeks in advance to apply the holiday discount (25 per cent discount on the full fee). Fee payments need to be up-to-date to receive the holiday discount.
What do I need to pack in my child's bag?
When you first enrol at The Ridge we will provide you with everything you need to know about starting care, including a detailed list of what to bring each day, please make sure you label every item (including socks). In the meantime here's a general guide to help:
• A sun-safe hat that covers your child's face, neck and ears
• Change of clothes (when involved with hands-on play-based learning, your child may get a little messy!)
• A bib or two (if required)
• Comfort item (if required), such as a toy or blanket
• Dummy in a sealed, named container (if required)
• Bottles
• Expressed milk (if required)
• Water bottle with a lid or a sippy cup
• Any medications – please give these to centre staff to manage directly. Please note our centres have formal processes in place to support children who require short or long-term medications as well as management plans for children with any known medical conditions. Please speak further with us regarding this.
Do I need to pack a lunch?
No, we provide morning and afternoon tea and lunch.
Do I need to pack sunscreen?
As a sun-safe organisation we provide child-friendly sunscreen, however, if your child has sensitive skin please feel free to provide your preferred brand.
What else should I pack in my child's bag?
We will be able to advise you of anything specific they may need, however most importantly please remember to label all of your child's items so we can easily keep track of them.
What support is available for children with additional needs?
We are passionate about ensuring all children have access to early learning and have facilities and resources in place in our centre to support children with specific requirements or additional needs - from allergies to greater care needs such as physical or learning disabilities or behaviour concerns.
Please speak with our Centre Manager about how we can work together to support your child's individual needs. We are looking forward to help you create your children’s best memories at The Ridge.