Explorers Early Learning launches new menu thanks to collaboration with chef

Early childhood education and care (ECEC) provider Explorers Early Learning has collaborated with well known chef Karen Martini to launch a new menu across its network. 

Ms Martini is an award-winning chef, restaurateur, author and television presenter who collaborated with Explorers to create a fresh, seasonal and healthy menu for all centres across Victoria, aiming to inspire healthy eating habits and support children’s growth and development.

Throughout the collaboration Ms Martini will add her culinary expertise to continue to craft dishes with fresh, seasonal ingredients, balanced nutrition and flavours children will love. Each meal is designed to cater to young learners’ dietary needs while ensuring allergen-friendly options are available.

“I can’t wait to bring a little magic to the menus at Explorers by embracing wholefoods and ingredients in a very fun, delicious and nutritious way and that is textually and visually exciting to the children,” she said. 

“During our journey together, I hope this partnership sparks inspiration across the entire Explorers community – parents, cooks and educators.”

For Explorers Early Learning Founder and CEO Lynda Salvo, the collaboration dovetails nicely with the provider’s commitment to place the health and wellbeing of every child at the heart of the work of the business. 

“This collaboration with Karen Martini marks a major milestone as we continue to innovate and offer the best possible experiences for our families,” she said. 

“Karen’s expertise will ensure mealtimes are not only about nourishment but also about joy, learning and excitement for our kids and their families.”

To celebrate the launch of the new menu, Explorers Early Learning will host special events at select centres, giving children and families the chance to sample the new dishes and meet Ms Martini in person.

This collaboration aligns with Explorers Early Learning’s 2025 focus on its Pathway to Exceeding—an initiative dedicated to surpassing expectations in every aspect of the organisation’s work.

For more information about the partnership and upcoming events, visit www.explorers.com.au