Who we are

Early Childhood Management Services (ECMS) has been providing high quality and inclusive early learning and care for Melbourne children, families and communities for more than 22 years. Our almost 70 kindergartens and childcare centres now touch the lives of 6500 children across Melbourne each week. 

Each of our kindergartens and childcare centres is designed to reflect the needs of its local community and families. This ensures children and families get the most out of the time in their ECMS early learning and care centre. And while each of our centres is unique, at every ECMS kindergarten and childcare centre you will find:
 

  • high-quality play-based educational programs designed around children's interests and developmental needs

  • highly qualified and dedicated educators who work in close partnership with families to maximise children's learning outcomes before school

  • safe and stimulating indoor and outdoor learning environments filled with plenty of natural resources to support children's learning

  • strong ties to the local community to enhance children's social connections and a sense of belonging. 

As a not-for-profit organisation, it is our vision, purpose and values that guide our work each day. 
 

    Our Vision


For every child to realise their right to a strong foundation for lifelong success. 
 

    Our Purpose


To make every day count by providing high-quality play-based learning in a safe and inclusive environment – ensuring that children and families in our community thrive in life. 
 

    Our Values


Inclusiveness
We value and nurture the uniqueness of each child and the diversity of each community in designing inclusive services.

Respect
We respect the primary role of parents and caregivers and encourage their involvement in our services.

Learning and enrichment
We provide parents, families and communities with access to resources and opportunities so that they can focus on connectedness, learning and enrichment.

Connectedness
Our services are embedded and connected within the communities we serve across Melbourne.

Responsiveness
Our services are responsive to the specific needs of the children and communities we serve.

Trust
We are a trusted partner with parents, communities, business and other services in responding to need.
 

    Strategic Goals


Four key focus areas and strategic goals will provide a roadmap for the work ECMS will undertake over 2019-2020. 

  1. Financially sustainable model of operation

Responsive and adaptive organisation, scalable to meet future demand.

  1. Connected communities and engaged stakeholders

Positive experiences and relationships shaping policy and practice.

  1. Engaged and empowered workforce

High performance through a supportive culture, professional development and collaboration.

  1. Leading through exemplary practice

Deliver exemplary educational practice based on a philosophy of continuous improvement and an evidence base.

 

More information

ECMS 2019-2020 Strategic Plan

Learn more about enrolling your child in an ECMS centre

Learn more about joining our network of quality early learning centres

Discover the benefits of working with ECMS