HQ Children's House of Learning

IQ + EQ = HQ

CHILDCARE
and
KINDERGARTEN

Where Montessori and Science Come Together

AND CURIOSITY BECOMES A LIFE SKILL

Creating a world of curiosity.

Why choose HQ Children's House of Learning?

We believe children learn best through self-directed play – given the opportunity to explore something they are interested in, the more curious they become about how to do it better and the more excited they become about learning the next thing.


Our dedicated, carefully selected team guide your child to follow their own interests while being available to help with their discovery of answers, raise more questions, and encourage your child to pursue the next step in their investigation.


We are dedicated early learning specialists who will nurture, cuddle and guide. We will be firm but kind to help develop healthy boundaries and demonstrate desired behaviour in our own actions.


Our aim is to foster in your child a passion for life-long learning as well as developing their Emotional Intelligence through role modelling and guidance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are you a Childcare?Yes we are.
We are licenced with the Education and Care Regulatory Unit (ECRU) and ACECQA, the same as all childcare in Australia
The difference here at HQ is simply our philosophy of education and program as we offer something a little unique.
Are you a Montessori?We believe the Montessori philosophy provides a strong foundation for fostering independence, curiosity, and a lifelong love of learning. At the same time, we recognise the importance of evolving educational practices and thoughtfully integrate the principles of the Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF) alongside contemporary theories and approaches that align with our centre's values.

Our educators are carefully selected for their experience, understanding of, or genuine interest in Montessori principles. They are committed to creating environments that encourage children to explore, question, discover, and develop confidence in their own abilities.

While Montessori philosophy strongly influences our practice, we do not describe ourselves as a Montessori centre or preschool. Instead, we embrace a blended approach, drawing on a range of evidence-based educational perspectives to provide what we believe is the most relevant and responsive learning experience for children growing up in the 21st century.

We believe that Maria Montessori's greatest legacy was not simply a method, but a commitment to observing, understanding, and responding to the needs of the child. In that spirit, we continue to learn, adapt, and evolve—always placing the child at the heart of everything we do.

You can see a bit more on this here:  Our Montessori Program
What ages do you take?Our program starts from around 14 months and supports children until the age of around 5.5 when they are required to move into formal compulsory schooling.
We assess each child for their readiness so we are confident they will get the most benefit and will be safe in our environment.
What is the CCS 3 Day Gaurantee?From January 2026, all families will be eligible for at least 72 hours of subsidised ECEC per fortnight (3 days per week), regardless of their activity levels. 

Families can still get 100 hours of subsidised ECEC per fortnight if they meet activity requirements or have a valid exemption.

Families caring for a First Nations child will be eligible for 100 hours of subsidised ECEC per fortnight.

CCS is still subject to the regular means testing for percentage the government pays and families earning over $533,280 in 2024-25 are not eligible for subsidised care – consistent with current settings.
Does my child need to be toilet trained?No.

When children are joining us as toddlers we do not expect that training has necessarily started.  Over time and when your child is comfortable we will look at introducing at around 2 - 2.5 years. 

While many children are toileting independantly by around age 3 there are some that just haven't quite got there and that is OK too.

Toileting is a very individual process and it is important that it is not a stressful event so we take our time and work with you to see how things are going at home.
Are you approved to collect CCS?Absolutely! 
And now with the new '3 DAY GUARANTEE' eligible families are no longer required to be undertaking 'approved activity'. 
If you are eligible for Child Care Subsidy through centrelink we will be able to connect you to recieve the benefit as a reduction in fees.
You can find information on how to apply here: How to Claim CCS
Can my child sleep?Yes.

In the Junior classroom we have a routine sleeping time after our lunch routine.

The children in the Preschool room have generally passed their regular daily sleep so are not routinely invited to have a nap.

On occassions there may have been an event such as a late night or a bad sleep that means they might be tired, so we have a basket of bedding in the classroom for those children needing to curl up and have a nap.
Do we pack a lunch for school?Yes.  We support you to choose your child's diet which may include culturally familiar foods that you know your child enjoys.
Your child will bring a school style lunch box with food that you wish for them to eat.  Anything not eaten will be returned home in the lunch box so you can see what they have eaten.
We can help with ideas if you have not packed school lunches before.
Can my child stay at HQ for Kindy?Absolutley!

Kindy is the year prior to the first compulsory year of schooling, called pre-school.  All settings - schools and centres - are guided by the same frameworks for Kindy.

We offer an exciting Kindy program that provides opportunity for both academic and emotional growth prior to entering thier formal schooling.
My child is not 14 months yet. Can I pre-enrol to secure a place?Yes!
As children's development can vary greatly around this age we can help you with an assesment to guide on starting time.

It's the personal touch...

Every child deserves to feel valued, understood, and cared for as an individual. That's why we place a strong emphasis on the personal touch in everything we do. We take the time to build genuine relationships with children and families, creating a nurturing environment where each child feels safe, supported, and confident to grow.

We understand that no two children are the same. By getting to know each child's unique personality, interests, and needs, we can provide meaningful experiences that encourage learning, development, and a sense of belonging. Our caring team is dedicated to making every family feel welcome, ensuring that children receive the attention, encouragement, and care they need to thrive; creating lasting connections and providing a home away from home where children can flourish.

If you would like to find out more, we would be delighted to have you visit us.

0432 370 041

contact@hqstjames.com

56 Victoria St  ST JAMES WA 6102