Our Story
Baringa has a rich history in early childhood education and care, supporting families for over 40 years.
We have an Exceeding Rating of the National Quality Standards. Located in Spence ACT, we provide a safe, nurturing and stimulating environment. Our children develop secure relationships at a young age, with their emotional needs cared for, which influence positive behaviours and a curiosity for learning.
Baringa is a not-for-profit, incorporated association and registered charity. Families and staff are association members, with all profits reinvested into early childhood education for the community. The centre recognises the importance of continuous quality improvement and seeks feedback from children, families and staff to better inform our programming, planning and service provision.
History
In 1979, the International Year of the Child, the Baringa Gardens Community Association received $15,554 in government funding for a playgroup and occasional child care centre at the Baringa Gardens Flats in Melba ACT.
On 23 November 1979, the centre opened, staffed by a nurse and volunteer mothers, to support single-parent families and low-income residents in the government housing complex. A decade later in 1989, the centre was moved to its current location when the then Spence Primary School closed.
In 1994, the organisation was renamed Baringa Child-Care Centre Association Incorporated. In 2019, the service rebranded as Baringa Early Learning Centre, to reflect the focus on early childhood education and professional recognition of educators.
Baringa has undergone changes throughout the years. The centre continues to blossom in its passion and professionalism, maintaining the core values of offering quality early childhood education and care.
