Choosing the right early education, preschool and care for your child is a big decision. At Gowrie Discovery House, located in Phillip, Canberra, families are offered an Exceeding-rated pre-school program and a warm, welcoming environment where children are known, valued and heard.
As part of Gowrie NSW, a trusted not-for-profit organisation with a long history in early and middle childhood education, Discovery House is grounded in research-informed practice and guided by children’s voices. The dedicated team is passionate about building strong relationships with families and creating a sense of belonging for every child.
Supporting ACT Preschool Families
Many ACT families access government-funded preschool for their 3 and 4-year-olds. While this provides a fantastic foundation, preschool typically runs five days per fortnight during school terms and doesn't always align with family work schedules.
Gowrie Discovery House is designed to complement ACT Government preschool, giving families the flexibility and continuity they need by offering:
• Care on the alternate weekdays when children are not at preschool
• Care during school holidays, helping to bridge the gap for working parents
• Extended hours that align with typical working days
The team works in partnership with families to coordinate preschool enrolment and ensure a smooth, consistent experience for children across both settings. This continuity of care helps children feel secure and supported, wherever they are learning.
Primary Educator Relationships
At Discovery House, relationships are at the heart of everything they do. Each child is supported by a dedicated Primary Educator who takes the lead in building a deep understanding of their interests, routines and learning journey.
These strong, secure relationships:
• Support children's wellbeing and sense of belonging
• Help children feel safe, confident and connected
• Build trust between educators and families
Families receive consistent communication about their child's learning, development and daily experiences. This might include conversations at drop-off and pick-up, written updates, or shared reflections on children’s progress, interests and achievements.
A Ready for School Program That Feels Like Play
Starting primary school is a big milestone, and children need time, space and support to feel prepared. Discovery House offers an intentional Ready for School Program grounded in play-based learning.
Through rich, engaging experiences, children are supported to develop:
• Confidence and independence in daily routines
• Emotional regulation and social skills
• Early literacy and numeracy concepts woven into meaningful play
Educators focus on the whole child - supporting their curiosity, resilience and sense of capability. The goal is for children to transition to primary school feeling capable, secure and excited about this next step.
Flexible and Family-Focused Care
Every family's week looks a little different - that's why Gowrie Discovery House offers:
• Full-day education and care options
• Support tailored to the needs of working families
• An inclusive, community-oriented environment where all families are welcome
Children learn and play in thoughtfully designed spaces, both indoors and outdoors, supported by a team committed to equity, inclusion and high-quality early education.
Book a Tour or Enquire Today
If you're looking for a flexible, high-quality option to complement ACT Government preschool, Gowrie Discovery House may be the perfect fit for your family.