We Reviewed 16 Child Care Centres in Parramatta for National Quality Standards
Choosing the right child care centre is one of the most important decisions parents make, as it directly impacts their child’s safety, education, and overall development. To help families in Parramatta make an informed choice, we reviewed 16 local child care centres based on their ratings under the National Quality Standard (NQS).
The NQS assesses and rates services across seven key areas, including educational programs, health and safety, staff qualifications, and community partnerships, ensuring consistent, high-quality care nationwide. Read on to discover how these centres performed and what their ratings mean for you and your little one.
The Seven Quality Areas Assessed
- Educational Program and Practice – Encourages children's active participation in play and learning.
- Children’s Health and Safety – Ensures protection from illness and hazards.
- Physical Environment – Creates a safe and well-maintained space for children to play and learn.
- Staffing Arrangements – Ensures there are enough qualified staff to meet each child’s needs.
- Relationships with Children – Fosters supportive and welcoming bonds for children.
- Collaborative Partnerships – Engages with families and respects diverse beliefs and values.
- Governance and Leadership – Maintains a positive and well-managed environment.
Quality Ratings for Child Care Centres
Each child care service is provided with a quality rating based on how well it meets the NQS across these seven areas. The overall rating reflects the centre's dedication to delivering quality care:
- Excellent: Outstanding service that leads the industry and continuously strives for improvement (requires application and approval by ACECQA).
- Exceeding NQS: Surpasses the required standard in at least four areas.
- Meeting NQS: Meets all seven quality areas, offering reliable and safe education and care.
- Working Towards NQS: Safe education and care are provided, but certain areas need improvement.
- Significant Improvement Required: Immediate action is taken where safety, health, or wellbeing are at risk.
- Provisional – Not Yet Assessed: Newly approved services yet to undergo full assessment but meet safety requirements to operate.
Safety First – Beyond Ratings
In addition to formal assessments, regulatory authorities undertake visits to monitor compliance with the National Quality Framework. These checks ensure centres adhere to safety standards, investigate incidents, and address any complaints or operational changes.
Kiddie Garden Long Day Care & Pre School
Kiddie Garden Daycare and Preschool has been a trusted choice for families in the Parramatta area since opening in 2013. Known for its nurturing and inclusive environment, the centre emphasizes building strong relationships with families to support children’s developmental journey.
Families appreciate the centre’s structured, play-based approach, large play areas, and the effort educators put into making each family feel welcome. Parents praise the collaboration between educators and families, noting an emphasis on creating a "learning through play" atmosphere that fosters confidence and curiosity in young children. Their school readiness room is highly regarded by both parents and educators for how well children transition into school.
Address: 1c Grose Street, Parramatta NSW 2150
NQS Rating: Meeting NQS in 7 out of 7 quality areas
Google Rating: 4.3 out of 5 stars
Care For Kids Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
KindiCare Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
Toddle Rating: Not Rated
Integricare Early Learning Centre Parramatta
Integricare Early Learning Centre Parramatta offers high-quality early education for families in Parramatta and surrounding areas. Parents commend the centre for its emphasis on inclusiveness, with programs incorporating cultural diversity, first languages, and family traditions.
The nurturing educators are consistently praised for their personalised approach, helping children settle in quickly and feel secure while growing academically and socially. Families also value the well-rounded programs that prepare children for school readiness, focusing on both emotional and academic growth.
Address: 84-86 Ross St, Parramatta NSW 2150
NQS Rating: Meeting NQS in 7 out of 7 quality areas
Google Rating: 4.6 out of 5 stars
Care For Kids Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
KindiCare Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
Toddle Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
Parramatta Preschool & Long Day Care
Parramatta Preschool and Long Day Care in North Parramatta has been providing high-quality early education for over 15 years. Renowned for its "home away from home" atmosphere, families highlight the caring and experienced educators who help children develop key life skills and confidence.
The School Readiness Program and play-based curriculum are highly praised for preparing children for their academic journey. Parents also appreciate the diverse cultural activities and focus on fostering creativity through hands-on experiences such as gardening, music, and arts.
Address: 56 Iron St, North Parramatta NSW 2151
NQS Rating: Meeting NQS in 6 out of 7 quality areas, exceeding NQS in 1 quality area.
Google Rating: 4.8 out of 5 stars
Care For Kids Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
KindiCare Rating: 4.7 out of 5 stars
Toddle Rating: Not Rated
Reggio Emilia Early Learning Centre Parramatta CBD
Reggio Emilia Early Learning Centre Parramatta CBD is celebrated for its modern, vibrant learning environment and culturally enriching programs. Families praise the centre’s innovative approach to early education, featuring unique daily activities such as Yarning Circles and creative arts that build confidence, teamwork, and problem-solving skills.
Parents have shared positive feedback about the experienced educators and the emphasis on collaboration, encouraging children to express themselves and embrace learning. The centre’s thoughtfully designed classrooms and cultural inclusivity further enrich the learning environment.
Address: 100 George St, Parramatta NSW 2150
NQS Rating: Meeting NQS in 7 out of 7 quality areas
Google Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
Care For Kids Rating: Not Rated
KindiCare Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
Toddle Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
Guardian Childcare and Education Parramatta
Guardian Childcare and Education Parramatta offers exceptional care in a welcoming, home-like environment. Parents have shared glowing reviews of the nurturing educators, who ensure children are happy, safe, and supported during their time at the centre. Many families commend the play-based curriculum, which focuses on fostering curiosity and essential developmental skills.
Address: 163 George St, Parramatta NSW 2150
NQS Rating: Meeting NQS in 7 out of 7 quality areas
Google Rating: 4.4 out of 5 stars
Care For Kids Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
KindiCare Rating: 4.4 out of 5 stars
Toddle Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
MindChamps Early Learning & Preschool Parramatta
MindChamps Early Learning and Preschool Parramatta provides premium early education and care for children aged 6 weeks to 6 years. Known for its S.M.I.L.E.S.™ approach, the centre fosters holistic development—social, mental, intellectual, linguistic, emotional, and sensory learning—through play-based programs that build confidence and foundational skills.
Parents praise the dedicated and nurturing educators who create a supportive and inclusive environment, ensuring children feel secure and valued. Highlighted in reviews is the personalised attention given to each child, helping them settle in and thrive. The centre emphasizes communication with families, keeping them actively involved in their child's development.
Address: Meriton Apartments Tower, 336 Church St, Parramatta NSW 2150
NQS Rating: Meeting NQS in 7 out of 7 quality areas
Google Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
Care For Kids Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
KindiCare Rating: 4.1 out of 5 stars
Toddle Rating: 4 out f 5 stars
Mini Masterminds North Parramatta
Mini Masterminds North Parramatta is highly regarded by parents for its innovative approach to early education and commitment to excellence. The centre offers purpose-built, premium facilities designed to provide children with the tools they need for a bright future. Parents consistently praise the safe, caring, and inclusive environment created by the passionate educators, who nurture each child’s potential and ensure they feel valued and supported. The balanced curriculum blends play-based learning with structured activities, encouraging children to think creatively, explore freely, and develop essential skills.
Mini Masterminds is also celebrated for its focus on diversity, integrity, and fostering a sense of community. Reviews highlight the centre’s welcoming atmosphere, its high ethical standards, and its ability to make ordinary activities extraordinary for children. Parents especially appreciate the open communication and collaborative approach taken by educators, ensuring families feel confident about their child's care and development.
Address: 52 Belmore St, North Parramatta NSW 2151
NQS Rating: Meeting NQS in 7 out of 7 quality areas
Google Rating: 4.2 out of 5 stars
Care For Kids Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
KindiCare Rating: 4.4 out of 5 stars
Toddle Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
Montessori Academy Entrada Parramatta
Entrada Montessori Academy in Parramatta is celebrated for its Montessori-based curriculum, purpose-built facilities, and focus on fostering independence and confidence in children aged 0-6 years. Parents often praise the nurturing educators and the well-equipped learning environment, but some highlight a need for better communication and more group-focused activities to complement self-directed learning. Conveniently located in the Entrada Shopping Centre, the centre's accessibility is another plus for families.
Address: 8/20 Victoria Road, Parramatta NSW 2150
NQS Rating: Meeting NQS in 7 out of 7 quality areas
Google Rating: 4.1 out of 5 stars
Care For Kids Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
KindiCare Rating: 4.1 out of 5 stars
Toddle Rating: Not Rated
Only About Children North Parramatta
Only About Children North Parramatta is a highly regarded early learning centre offering a warm, "home away from home" experience in a quaint cottage-style setting. Conveniently located near local parks and reserves, the centre features modern facilities and is easily accessible with on-site parking and public transport nearby. Families frequently praise the smooth transition process for new children and the supportive educators who create a nurturing and engaging environment for children to thrive. Parents also appreciate the emphasis on holistic development, combining play-based learning with a focus on emotional, social, and academic growth.
Some parents have noted that the centre could improve consistency in communication between staff and families, with occasional feedback delays regarding their child’s progress. Despite this, the majority of reviews highlight a high level of care and dedication from the staff. The centre remains a popular choice in the Parramatta area for its nurturing environment and family-friendly approach.
Address: 8 Isabella St, North Parramatta NSW 2151
NQS Rating: Meeting NQS in 7 out of 7 quality areas
Google Rating: 4.3 out of 5 stars
Care For Kids Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
KindiCare Rating: 4.4 out of 5 stars
Toddle Rating: Not Rated
Angel Cottage Child Care Centre
Angel Cottage Child Care Centre, near Parramatta CBD, offers a warm, inclusive environment and engaging activities like farm visits, puppet shows, and fire engine experiences. Parents praise the family-friendly atmosphere and hands-on programs but note areas for improvement, such as more consistent communication and scheduling disruptions from special events. Despite this, it remains a popular choice for its nurturing care and enriching approach.
Address: 1 Gore St, Parramatta NSW 2150
NQS Rating: Meeting NQS in 6 out of 7 quality areas
Working towards meeting 1 out of 7 quality areas. This is quality area number 1 - Educational Program and Practice: Encourages children's active participation in play and learning.
Google Reviews: 5 out of 5 stars
Care For Kids Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
KindiCare Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
Toddle Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
Milestones Early Learning North Parramatta
Milestones Early Learning North Parramatta is known for offering a warm and nurturing environment with a focus on holistic child development. The centre follows the Lifelong Learning Curriculum aligned with Australia's Early Years Learning Framework, catering to babies, toddlers, and preschool-aged children. The tailored programs, including a strong school readiness component, build confidence, curiosity, and essential skills for primary school and beyond. Parents and educators alike praise the caring and supportive staff, such as the highly commended Miss Ann and Annie, who create an inclusive and welcoming atmosphere.
While the centre is widely appreciated, some reviews mention areas for improvement, including delays in communication and a desire for enhanced updates on children’s progress. Despite this, its well-structured programs and passionate team make it a trusted choice for families in the area.
Address: 198-200 Pennant Street, North Parramatta NSW 2151
NQS Rating: Meeting NQS in 7 out of 7 quality areas
Google Reviews: 4.5 out of 5 stars
Care For Kids Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
KindiCare Rating: 4.3 out of 5 stars
Toddle Rating: Not Rated
Facebook Reviews: 3.8 out of 5 stars
Vital Start Early Learning
Vital Start Early Learning is a childcare centre committed to fostering holistic growth and school readiness in young children. Known for its nurturing environment and attentive educators, the centre focuses on creating engaging experiences and supporting children’s emotional and developmental milestones. Its curriculum aligns with quality early education standards, emphasizing both individual and group-based learning opportunities. Parents appreciate the staff's dedication to providing personalised care and building strong relationships with families.
Some reviews suggest there is room for improvement in communication about daily activities and updates on children’s progress. Despite this, Vital Start Early Learning remains a trusted choice for its warm care and dedication to early education.
Address: 4 Brabyn Street, North Parramatta NSW 2151
NQS Rating: Meeting NQS in 7 out of 7 quality areas
Google Reviews: 5 out of 5 stars
Care For Kids Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
KindiCare Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
Facebook Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
Little Bees Childcare Parramatta
Little Bees Childcare Parramatta is recognised for its focus on fostering strong relationships among educators, children, and families, providing a nurturing foundation for growth and learning. The centre offers engaging programs designed to support children in developing lifelong skills and becoming active members of their community. Many parents praise the friendly and supportive staff, highlighting how they help children settle in comfortably and embrace daily programs, which often include sports and other enriching activities.
Some parents note room for improvement in consistent communication about their child’s updates and daily routines. Despite this, Little Bees Childcare Parramatta is popular for its dedicated team and community-focused approach to early education.
Address: Level 3, 118 Church Street, Parramatta NSW 2150
NQS Rating: Meeting NQS in 7 out of 7 quality areas
Google Reviews: 4.5 out of 5 stars
Care For Kids Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
KindiCare Rating: 4.9 out of 5 stars
Toddle Rating: Not Rated
St Marina Early Learning Centre
St Marina Early Learning Centre in Parramatta offers a nurturing environment with a curriculum focused on holistic development and school readiness. Parents appreciate the dedicated staff, engaging programs, and family-friendly atmosphere. The centre encourages tours, allowing families to explore its facilities and ask questions to ensure it meets their needs. It also supports families with waitlist options for full age groups.
Address: 3 Grandview Street, Parramatta NSW 2150
NQS Rating: Meeting NQS in 7 out of 7 quality areas
Google Reviews: 4.9 out of 5 stars
Care For Kids Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
KindiCare Rating: 4.9 out of 5 stars
Toddle Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
Parramatta East Pre School
Parramatta East Pre School focuses on providing a safe and nurturing environment where children can thrive. Parents commend the friendly and engaging staff, including educators like Miss Tina and Miss Brooke, who are known for their care and support. The management is praised for its commitment to creating a cosy and welcoming space for kids to learn and grow. The preschool operates from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM, catering to working families in the area.
Address: 116 Victoria Road, Parramatta NSW 2150
NQS Rating: Meeting NQS in 2 out of 7 quality areas
Working towards NQS in 5 out of 7 quality areas
Parramatta East Pre School is currently working towards meeting quality areas 1, 2, 3, 4 and 7.
Check the latest data at ACECQA.
Google Reviews: 4.7 out of 5 stars
Care For Kids Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
KindiCare Rating: 4.7 out of 5 stars
Toddle Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
Little Lion Parramatta
Little Lion Early Learning Parramatta is conveniently located just a 10-minute walk from Parramatta Train Station and the shopping centre, with on-site parking available. Combining Montessori and Reggio Emilia teaching philosophies, parents praise the caring and professional educators and the emphasis on learning through play, supported by high-quality facilities.
As a newly opened centre in June 2024, they have been issued a provisional rating and at the time of writing the ACECQA website shows the centre as not yet assessed.
Address: 180 George St, Parramatta NSW 2150
NQS Rating: Not Yet Assessed
Google Reviews: 5 out of 5 stars
Care For Kids Rating: Not Rated
KindiCare Rating: Not Rated
Toddle Rating: Not Rated
Why These Ratings Matter
For families in Parramatta, reviewing the NQS ratings can provide valuable insight into the quality of education and care a child care service offers. An “Excellent” or “Exceeding NQS” rating signifies exceptional standards and innovative practices, while a “Meeting NQS” rating reflects a strong, reliable service.
With the Productivity Commission proposing reforms to Australia’s childcare system, and Labor’s plans to build 160 new centres, accessing childcare may be more affordable and closer to your home in the future.
When choosing a child care centre, prioritising those with higher NQS ratings can give you peace of mind, knowing that your child is in capable hands in a safe, caring, and stimulating environment designed to foster their development. Consider visiting local services and reviewing their ratings to find the best fit for your family.
