Dapto Childcare Centre
Our Dapto centre offers purpose-built early learning in the Illawarra for up to 86 children, with tailored programs, nurturing educators and strong school readiness.
47
- CENTRES AROUND NSW
15+
- YEARS OF OPERATION
- Dapto Childcare Centre
Why Choose Young Academics?
Dapto combines purpose-built learning with a strong community feel. With four dedicated rooms, tailored programs and experienced educators, children move confidently through each stage, building independence, skills and readiness for school and beyond.
Purpose-built centres for curious minds
Our facilities are thoughtfully designed to inspire exploration and learning.
Nutritious meals prepared fresh on-site
Healthy, delicious meals crafted by our chefs to fuel growing bodies and minds.
Holistic programs that prepare children
Comprehensive curriculum aligned with EYLF to ensure school-readiness.
Nappies & wipes
All included, less for parents to
worry about
Feels just like home
With loving educators your child will adore
- About our centres
Where Learning Comes to Life
Dapto blends play-based learning, purposeful environments and nurturing educators to shape confident, school-ready learners.
- Spacious indoor and outdoor play areas
- Sensory garden for exploration
- State-of-the-art facilities and resources
- Dedicated art studio and creative spaces
- Age-appropriate learning zones
- Safe, secure environment with CCTV
- Parent stories
What Families Say
Hear from real parents about their experiences with Young Academics
We have had nothing but positive experiences with the staff and the centre.When we moved to the area and joined YA, our 2.5 yr old was understandably clingy and upset at drop off in the mornings, being in a new environment and getting used to all the changes etc. But he comes home with a smile on his face every day, and now tells me i 'can go now' at morning drop off.
Lauren H.
04:44 07 Apr 26
Clean centre, great meals, passionate staff. My son LOVES young academics Dapto!
Melony T.
10:08 24 Mar 26
Highly recommended service. My son is really happy here.
Baljit kaur G.
20:59 17 Feb 26
Friendly staff and very helpful.
Ina K.
10:18 17 Oct 25
Amazing staff and care !!!
Kristy B.
00:27 19 Aug 25
Innovative programs grounded in research and best practice
Over 60 centres across New South Wales with experienced educators
Warm, inclusive environments where every child is valued
Transparent fees and flexible care options
- Centre videos
See Our Centre in Action
Watch our videos to get a feel for the environment and programs we offer
- Meet the team
Lucia
- CENTRE MANAGER
Lucia’s journey into early childhood education began with a natural connection to children, a quality that was often recognised throughout her early adulthood. Lucia holds a Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood and Care (0-5 years) and a Diploma of Frontline Management. These qualifications, combined with her hands-on experience, have shaped her holistic approach to early childhood education.
As a Centre Manager, Lucia envisions her service as a cornerstone of the local community, led by a team of passionate educators. She strives to create an environment where children feel safe, supported, and excited to learn while reaching their individual milestones. Lucia is dedicated to fostering an inclusive space that feels like a true extension of the children’s homes, where families are supported, valued, and part of a collaborative journey towards their child’s development and success.
- Contact Young Academics
Get In Touch
Contact us today to learn more or schedule a visit
Call Us
Opening Hours
7:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Monday – Friday)
Visit Us
10 Osborne St, Dapto NSW 2530
Fee Structure
Age GroupDAILY FEE
Infants$172.20/Day
Toddlers$172.20/Day
Preschoolers$161.80/Day
Good news!
With the 3 Day Guarantee, your subsidy can double from 36 to 72 hours per fortnight, saving you:
Annual Savings$11,400
Per Week$230
- Save up to $11.4K
Guaranteed subsidised care for your family
All CCS-eligible families receive at least 3 days / (72 hours) of subsidised early learning per fortnight – no matter your work, study, or training hours.
- Backed by the Government
- No more activity tests
- 3 days guaranteed
- Good news: Families already on higher hours keep their entitlement. The 3 Day Guarantee only increases access - it never reduces it.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Get answers to common questions about Young Academics centres
Dapto delivers holistic early learning through a structured yet flexible approach that supports every stage of development. Children engage in literacy, numeracy, creativity, movement and STEAM experiences, building confidence, resilience and strong foundations for lifelong learning.
Young Academics Dapto supports families in accessing the Australian Government’s Child Care Subsidy (CCS), helping make childcare more affordable. Our team provides clear, practical guidance so you can understand and maximise your entitlements.
At Dapto, learning is purposeful and personalised. Educators tailor experiences to each child’s interests and development, creating meaningful opportunities that build confidence, independence and a strong connection to learning. =
Dapto makes the first day feel calm and reassuring, with welcoming educators and structured routines that help children settle quickly. Strong relationships are built early, supporting a smooth and positive transition for both children and families.
Children enjoy nutritious, balanced meals prepared fresh on site each day. Menus include a variety of fresh ingredients and are tailored to dietary needs, supporting healthy growth, energy and wellbeing. For more details, visit Nutrition Program.
At Dapto, child safety is built into every aspect of the centre, from secure environments to consistent routines and attentive supervision.
Our educators are trained in child protection and follow strict safeguarding practices, creating a safe, supportive space where children can confidently explore, learn and grow.
CHILD CARE SUBSIDY (CCS) CALCULATOR
Answer a few questions to estimate your out-of-pocket fees. Updated for FY 2025–26. Guidance only. Includes 5% withholding.
ESTIMATES BASED ON YOUR CRITERIA*
Estimated out-of-pocket per day
—
—
Estimated out-of-pocket per week
—
Centre daily fee (no CCS)
—
Your CCS percentage (before withholding)
—
Child age & band
—
Estimated Start Strong fee relief (per year)
—
*Estimates are based on pricing effective up until 1 June 2026 and may be subject to minor adjustments beyond this date. Accurate pricing will be confirmed at enrolment. All fees are subject to change. Includes 5% CCS withholding. Start Strong is shown as an estimated annual fee relief amount (NSW) and 3 Day Guarantee hours may cap subsidised hours for the estimate.
- Learning resources
More to Discover
Helpful articles and insights for parents navigating early childhood education
Ready to Get Started?
Join our community of happy families and give your child the best start in their learning journey. Book a tour today!
Book a tour
Join hundreds of families already on our waitlist
