About Us


Opening Hours: Monday - Friday 6:45am-6:00pm

(Closed Public Holidays)

Address: 21-27 Hart St, Colac

Phone: 03 5232 2550

 

APPROVED PROVIDER: 
Millville Child Care Centre Pty. Ltd.

Trading as: Millville Children's Centre

 

COMPANY DIRECTORS: 
Cathy & Phillip Thompson, both Cathy and Phil hold  Primary School Teaching qualifications (Diploma of Teaching (Primary) & Bachelor of Education (Primary) and Cathy also holds a diploma in children's services.

   

PERSONS WITH MANAGEMENT & CONTROL:

Cathy Thompson

 

Nominated Supervisor:

Sara Vickers         

                                                            

 

Educational Leaders:
Sara Vickers and Cathy Thompson


Our Philosophy

At Millville Children's Centre, we believe childhood is a unique and valuable time of life. We are committed to creating a warm, welcoming and inclusive environment where every child and family feels they belong, are respected and are valued for who they are.

We recognise families as children's first and most influential teachers. Through genuine partnerships built on trust, respect and open communication, we work alongside families to support each child's learning, wellbeing and development. Together we celebrate each child's strengths, interests, culture, identity and individuality, while holding high expectations that every child can learn, grow and thrive.

We embrace the diversity of our community and are committed to creating a culturally safe and inclusive environment where every child develops a strong sense of identity and belonging. We acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we learn and play and are committed to continually deepening our understanding of the histories, cultures and perspectives of the Gulidjan and Gadubanud Peoples of Eastern Maar Country. We recognise that this learning is ongoing and enriches our practice, helping children develop respect for First Nations Peoples, Country and community.

We see children as capable, competent and curious learners with the right to be active participants in decisions about their learning. Play is at the heart of our curriculum. Through intentional teaching, meaningful interactions and responsive relationships, we create opportunities for children to investigate, wonder, problem solve, create, communicate and develop confidence as lifelong learners.

Our practice is guided by a slow pedagogy that values meaningful experiences over hurried routines. We believe children learn best when they have time to explore, revisit ideas, build relationships and become deeply engaged in their learning. By slowing down, listening carefully and responding thoughtfully, we create space for children's voices, ideas and interests to flourish.

Secure, respectful and responsive relationships are the foundation of everything we do. We understand that children thrive when they feel safe, connected and emotionally secure. By building strong attachments and nurturing each child's wellbeing, we support resilience, confidence, independence and a positive sense of self.

Our learning environments are thoughtfully designed to inspire curiosity, creativity and exploration. Indoor and outdoor spaces invite children to connect with nature, take considered risks, solve problems and develop a sense of agency. We encourage children to care for the environment through sustainable practices and to develop an appreciation for the natural world and their place within it.

The safety, wellbeing and rights of every child are our highest priority. We are committed to upholding the Child Safe Standards and ensuring that the best interests of children are paramount in every decision we make. Through dynamic supervision, thoughtful risk assessment and reflective practice, educators actively adapt to changing environments and children's needs to create safe, engaging and supportive learning experiences. We foster a culture where children are heard, respected and empowered to express their views, knowing they will be listened to and protected.

Our educators are reflective professionals who value curiosity, collaboration and continuous learning. We are committed to ongoing professional growth, critical reflection and evidence-informed practice to continually strengthen outcomes for children and families. We believe that when educators feel respected, supported and inspired, they are best placed to nurture meaningful relationships and provide high-quality education and care.

At Millville Children's Centre, we strive to create a community where children feel safe, families feel connected, educators feel valued and every person is empowered to learn, grow and contribute with confidence, kindness and respect.

 

Update 2026