Had a horrible experience when my daughter attended a few years ago. Never got round to writing a review as I was hoping these were merely teething issues. Hearing of recent breaches at other Nido centres however, has prompted me to write this. We were involved in a security incident where my daughter was picked up by my mother without anyone taking much notice (who had never been to the centre before and was not known to anyone there). My mother was able to walk right through the doors (no code) and pick up my daughter without anyone acknowledging her or her identity and was able to walk straight out. This could have been anyone especially as the centre is on a very busy main road. To top it off, I was disgusted by the way head office dealt with my concerns. I was told that someone is always manning the front entrance yet I had been there multiple times when this was not the case and including the day my mother was there. Also, was made to feel like I was overreacting and I did not feel my concerns were given the attention and importance that it required. I ended up reporting the matter to the Department of Education as although my daughter was no longer there, I was truly concerned for the welfare of other children.

Our children are our most prized possession therefore sending our children to a reliable childcare centre is very important to us. I have placed my 2 kids at Nido for more than 3 years now. Nido donvale staff are diverse, patient, responsive and highly professional in taking care of my 2 boys. The staff communicates the daily activities of our children via Xplore (app) so we know what they eat/ sleep etc. The centre manages hygiene well, never had an issue with what other centre constantly encounters such as head lice, hand foot mouth disease etc although you will still have running nose etc i guess it is all normal in every CC. Why the low communicable disease in this centre is likely due to the high hygiene standards (fever/ cough etc even pre-COVID) maintained by the centre by asking parents to take their kids home..although inconvenient, but you will know the CC maintains the line for everyone which ultimately benefits us and the kids. Having gone to another CC prior to Nido donvale, i would personally recommend this CC. The centre's staff loved the kids and my boys love going to this childcare and its playground.

My son started here in early 2023, not long after new management took over the service. From the first day we walked in to do a tour, I have felt nothing but warmth, support and kindness from everyone I have encountered - and that's not an exaggeration. My son has settled in to his room (baby room) quicker than I ever imagined, and is welcomed with smiles, hugs and kisses each day he attends. This service is truly creating that home away from home experience, something I never imagined possible; it really does feel like an extension of our 'village'. I have a background in early years education, and the program and documentation is just as impressive, with intentionally planned experiences and resources provided for the children. It really is the educators that make this service a true standout though; everyone looks like they really want to be there, and are genuinely excited to see the children each day. I feel so smug that we found Nido when we did, and look forward to continuing this special relationship for years to come.

Two thumbs up from this very happy mumma! I have been nothing but impressed and delighted with Nido. My son used to attend another well known center in Forest Hill until the centre director left, followed by 4 amazing educators who followed her. The center was always very well run and the staff were clearly happy to be there. This speaks volumes of the person running the show. The quality of care declined drastically after their departure, so much so that I removed my son and followed the educators to Nido. Several families followed suit and we couldn’t be happier with the quality and level of care at Nido. After his first orientation, my son kept asking when he could go back to the “other daycare”. It was clear to me that he felt comfortable and happy even after a day. That is testament to the wonderful staff at Nido. It’s unfortunate to see disgruntled ex employees write poor reviews, particularly when it is clear they have copied portions of other posts verbatim and have no idea what nepotism actually means.

We are so delighted with our room leader who is a truly competent educator in all meanings of the word. Her demeanour is completely disarming and reassuring that we have no hesitation to leave our son at Nido care each day. On top of this, it is just outstanding to observe that other educators have created trust with our young son, that he feels perfectly comfortable to be dropped off with them and spend the day in care. This is vital for us parents, and so appreciated! These are the types of educators we can rave about - they are curious, they are kind, they are experienced, and adaptable to different children. These are the important adults we trust every day, and we feel peace of mind with the team at Nido. Not to mention, the facilities are excellent, and the food truly impressive. Nido is high quality, personalised care in a large format offering.

We have been at Nido since 2018 and have loved it for both of our children. We have worked out way through the whole centre with fabulous caring staff as well as love and support from Deb the manager. The staff all knew who we were and who our child was, the always gave us infosmtuin and feedback each day on pick up as well as via the communication app. I loved that the kids were able to go on excursions like to Chesterfield farm, the aquarium and museums. We left the ce tee only because of a house move and even kept sending our daughter and driving the hour round trip just because we were so happy there. I highly recommend NidoDonvale as Deb and Savannah run a beautiful carting and community supported centre. Thank you for taking such special care of our babies x

I am so surprised at some of the low reviews. We have had our daughter here for nearly a year and could not speak more highly of it. Some of the negative comments seem incorrect and I wonder if the reviewers are even reviewing the right place. It is a beautiful environment, the most amazing and natural play grounds, the most friendly, loving and caring staff and my daughter loves every day she comes to Nido. Many of my friends have moved to this centre and could not be happier. It is such a warm environment. The staff genuinely love and care about my daughter. I couldn’t be happier and so is she! I highly recommend.

Do not risk your kids lives and send them there. It IS NOT SAFE! The playground is risky and the supervision is VERY poor. I had to pull out my daughter after having a couple of SERIOUS injuries at Nido because of lack of super vision. I have seen the footage myself and saw how bad the fall was and how careless and unattentive the educator was. Management is VERY poor, dishonest and unreliable. They can do anything and easily change their words to cover the staff's mistakes and cover the poor level of care rather than caring for the kids. How can they be trusted to look after little ones?! Please be aware!

This is the worst center you can ever choose for your child. The new director is from another well known franchised childcare centre at Forest Hill VIC and all employees disliked her ver much. Since she took over this centre, all the previous great educators left within a month. Under qualified educator were incharge the kinder rooms. Children were forced to go out and play when UV light was above 10. Many incidents/injurt happen to different children on daily basiss. Nice and shiny on the outside… rotten on the inside. Rude, incompetent, and conniving management. Bad culture and brazen nepotism

I have only the highest praise for the team at Nido Donvale. My son has been in their care for the past few years and I have watched him grow and thrive. The educators in his kinder class this year really took the time to understand my son and helped him learn and grow the way he needed to. The team works fantastically together and it is reflected in the joy you see on the children’s faces everyday. I cannot thank Nido enough for providing a safe and nurturing environment for children to grow and thrive in their own individual ways.

I called Nido today to ask questions regarding my child’s possible new enrolment for 2023. Whilst it is holidays I did expect a message to be taken and be contacted back however Jacinta (the service manager) was able to answer all my questions and more! I explained my concerns around my child having anxiety and how the transition would go however she was able to talk to me about orientation processes and other ways they can help her settle. Looking forward to seeing more of the community at Nido Donvale soon!

My son has been to Nido Donvale for almost a year. We are really thankful to all the wonderful and caring staff in Nido - the educators/teachers in the class, the admin, the chefs in the kitchen, the centre director, they are all very dedicated, they care and love each of the children that come to the centre. Every time my son comes to Nido, he comes with a big smile and he is really excited. He learned a lot of things at Nido. Can't thank enough for this centre. Very highly recommended!

It was a great experience to work with Nido Donvale team. I was so amazed to watch the team work and how they care about the children learning at Nido. There transition is really smooth and fully support children to flourish. I love the care and attention they give to all children. The manager is very friendly and loving person who always make sure that educators and children are doing okay. Again, I am really glad to work with this team!!!!

The previous review is certainly incorrect. I worked with the current director at her previous centre (in Forest Hill) and she was one of the best directors I have ever worked with. Our centre had 43 five star reviews and I don't know of any staff members who were unhappy with her management. When she moved on many educators and families also left. I miss working with her and hope to work with her again in the future!

We have been SO happy with the team at Nido Donvale since moving our child here. All staff at the centre have been warm and welcoming and we have loved seeing the creative activities that the children are able to participate in. The food is nutritious and delicious and our little one is happy and learning lots which is all we can ask for. Would definitely recommend the centre to others.

Nice and shiny on the outside… rotten on the inside. Rude, incompetent, and conniving management. Bad culture and brazen nepotism. Lack of accountability and poor communication practices. Parents are routinely lied to and their views are disregarded. Hardworking and caring educators exit in droves or get sacked for speaking up. These people put profit before the kids. You be the judge.

So happy with the beautiful centre and the level of care and service they provide to the children. My child loves attending and is learning and developing more with each attendance thanks to the educators and program at Nido! The staff are kind and helpful and are quick to respond to any requests. We feel so comfortable sending our child to Nido and will highly recommend to anyone!

I am extremely surprised with some of the lower scores on the site which surprisingly have only come in within recent days. I know multiple individuals, both the parents, management and lovely leads in the rooms. They are all extremely well trained and do their best for the kids on-site. Strongly recommend a visit for you to judge the school for what it is, amazing!

My child has been going to the centre for 3 years and we have watched her grow both emotionally and socially. The Staff are so warm and kind and have always welcomed my family with open arms. With learning inspired by the 'Reggio Emilia approach', I have seen a lot of self-awareness with my child and her learning journey.

I had a tour appointment today and both ladies who were showing the rooms and the lady on the reception weren't helpful at all and they didn't bother to explain things and answer my questions correctly. I'm not sure how they will feel responsible and will explain things if anything happens in the childcare!

The team at Nido are friendly and caring to the children. The kinder teacher in our room takes great care to teach the children topics that they are curious about including the solar system, sea creatures and the water cycle! Lovely chef in the kitchen who greets everyone warmly every time as well.

It is a new and nice place, but exucators in toddlers room are not experienced . Also very poor management system. I left the message 2 times for them and no one call me back, most of the time there isno receptionist to answer to the phone.

Thank you to the amazing team I work with at Nido Donvale. I have only been here a short time buy my first few weeks have been so smooth and everyone has made me and my daughter feel so welcome and part of the family

I have contacted the centre to discuss something as I received the email fro NIDO but the staff very rude and aggressive the way they respond. Be careful when you sending your child to this centre as staff very rude.

First of all, most of these five star reviews are coming from staff which is showing the integrity of this centre. Despite the nice building, management is horrible. Very poor management, very aggressive and rude.

Fantastic facilities and staff! I couldn’t recommend strongly enough, my child is absolutely loving their time at the centre and we are extremely happy with the staff and programs!

Have been involved with Nido for the last 3 years! Great environment awesome staff and great manager. Couldn't recommend it enough.

Really lovely team! Would happily recommend this place to people looking for the right place for their children.

Fantastic place, wonderful staff, they continue to exceed expectations.

Thanks for the love from educators and the management team.