Curiosity unlocked: QCCS centre leads Queensland in child-led learning 

Queensland Childcare Services (QCCS) Morayfield West Early Childhood Centre is helping  to redefine early learning in Queensland, becoming only the third centre in the State to  achieve Curiosity Approach Accreditation. 

The accreditation marks a major milestone in child-led learning, recognising the centre’s  commitment to creating inspiring environments where curiosity and independent thinking  take centre stage. 

The Curiosity Approach is a modern approach to early childhood education that creates calm  learning environments designed to spark children’s natural sense of wonder. By simplifying the environment through warm lighting and real-life materials, children are encouraged to explore through imagination and self-directed learning. 

QCCS General Manager Laura Faalili said the accreditation highlighted the organisation’s focus on creating environments where children thrive. 

“Through authentic, open-ended and real-life materials, alongside responsive educator  practice, children are encouraged to use their imagination and follow their own ideas through play,” Ms Faalili said. 

“Children become capable and confident learners when given the freedom to explore and make imaginative choices. Play is one of the most powerful ways a child can learn. 

“This approach supports our intentional practice across centres, with environments and  opportunities that support children to develop problem-solving capabilities and independence, skills that can support them throughout their learning and development.” 

Key elements inspired by the Curiosity Approach are already reflected across QCCS  centres, which recognises the important role of the environment as the ‘third teacher’,  encouraging curiosity and independence. 

QCCS Morayfield West Early Childhood Centre Director Angela Hardey said the Curiosity  Approach strengthened the centre’s slow and meaningful pedagogy, reshaping how educators connect with children.

“Our environments are created with children in mind, rather than learning being predetermined for them. Children’s curiosity and ideas help guide learning, allowing them to develop independence and stronger connections with their educators,” Ms Hardey said. 

“We’ve seen children settle more quickly and develop a strong sense of belonging. By creating warm environments that incorporate real materials, including ceramics and  authentic household items, young learners build confidence and respect for their  environment.” 

Morayfield West is the first QCCS centre to achieve accreditation, inspiring several other  services to begin their own Curiosity Approach journey. Through incorporation into early  learning settings, the approach has allowed for educators to value the process of learning. 

“As the approach becomes more embedded, educators find great joy in observing and  responding to children’s interests in real time,” Ms Faalili said. 

“QCCS congratulates the Morayfield West team on this significant achievement and  acknowledges the guidance provided by Curiosity Approach co-founder Stephanie Bennett  throughout the accreditation process.” 

To learn more about QCCS values and early learning programs, visit the QCCS website.