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Top 3 Childcare Centres in Northcote, VIC

Independent rankings updated monthly from ACECQA, Google Reviews, Kindicare, and more. No paid placements.

3070Postcode
City of DarebinLGA
3 CentresRanked
Feb 2026Last updated
How we rank centres: Our rankings combine the official ACECQA quality rating with verified parent reviews from Google, Kindicare, and CareforKids. The ACECQA NQS rating carries the most weight as it is Australia's gold standard for early learning quality. Learn more
1
#1 Ranked in Northcote
Vacancies available

Nido Early School Northcote

Northcote VIC 3070

4.5
Overall
ACECQA: Meeting NQS

Nido Early School Northcote provides a premium early learning experience with purpose-built facilities and a strong educational program. Modern indoor and outdoor environments support each child's individual development.

Service type
Long Day Care
Ages
0 to 6 years
Places
104 approved
Hours
7:00 AM to 6:30 PM
Google rating
4.5 (86 reviews)
Operator
Private
Programs and approach
Early Years Learning FrameworkSchool readinessSTEM exploration
Key features
+ CCS approved+ Purpose-built facilities+ Meals included+ School readiness+ Kindergarten program
Why this ranking

This centre holds a Meeting NQS rating from ACECQA, meaning it meets all quality standards across every area of the National Quality Framework.

Google rating
4.5 / 5
Kindicare rating
4.4 / 5
2
#2 Ranked in Northcote
Waitlist only

Goodstart Early Learning Northcote

Northcote VIC 3070

4.3
Overall
ACECQA: Meeting NQS

Goodstart Early Learning Northcote delivers quality early childhood education as part of Australia's largest not-for-profit provider. Consistent standards, sibling priority, and flexible care options.

Service type
Long Day Care
Ages
0 to 6 years
Places
74 approved
Hours
7:00 AM to 6:30 PM
Google rating
4.3 (64 reviews)
Operator
Not-for-profit
Programs and approach
Approved Learning FrameworkSchool readiness
Key features
+ CCS approved+ Meals provided+ Sibling priority+ Flexible hours+ Qualified educators
Why this ranking

This centre holds a Meeting NQS rating from ACECQA, meaning it meets all quality standards across every area of the National Quality Framework.

Google rating
4.3 / 5
Kindicare rating
4.2 / 5
3
#3 Ranked in Northcote
Vacancies available

Guardian Early Learning Northcote

Northcote VIC 3070

4.2
Overall
ACECQA: Meeting NQS

Guardian Early Learning Northcote provides a safe, stimulating environment for children from 6 weeks to school age. Qualified educators and a strong focus on each child's individual learning journey.

Service type
Long Day Care
Ages
0 to 6 years
Places
88 approved
Hours
7:00 AM to 6:30 PM
Google rating
4.2 (51 reviews)
Operator
Private
Programs and approach
Early Years Learning FrameworkKindergarten programPlay-based learning
Key features
+ CCS approved+ All ages+ Meals provided+ Qualified educators+ Kindergarten program
Why this ranking

This centre holds a Meeting NQS rating from ACECQA, meaning it meets all quality standards across every area of the National Quality Framework.

Google rating
4.2 / 5
Kindicare rating
4.1 / 5

Childcare in Northcote

Northcote is one of Melbourne's most beloved inner suburbs, with a thriving High Street, strong school options, and a deeply community-minded culture. A top choice for families who want inner-city living with a village feel.

Frequently asked questions

What are the top 3 childcare centres in Northcote?
The top 3 are: Nido Early School Northcote (#1, rated 4.5/5, Meeting NQS), Goodstart Early Learning Northcote (#2, rated 4.3/5), and Guardian Early Learning Northcote (#3, rated 4.2/5). Updated monthly from ACECQA, Google, and Kindicare.
How do I choose a childcare centre in Northcote?
Start with the ACECQA NQS rating, Australia's official quality benchmark. Then consider location, hours, cost, vacancies, and educational approach. We recommend visiting your top 2 to 3 options in person before deciding.
Are there childcare vacancies in Northcote?
Vacancy status is shown on each listing above and updated regularly. Contact centres directly to confirm current availability and to join waitlists if needed.
What childcare subsidies are available?
Most Australian families qualify for the Child Care Subsidy (CCS), paid directly to the centre to reduce your out-of-pocket costs. Use the Services Australia CCS estimator to calculate your entitlement based on family income and activity level.
Jump to centre
1
Nido Early School Northcote
2
Goodstart Early Learning Northcote
3
Guardian Early Learning Northcote
Nearby suburbs
Data sources
ACECQANQS ratings
Starting BlocksFees and vacancies
KindicareParent reviews
CareforKidsListings and fees

Last updated: February 2026