Our Schools
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Welcome to The Akidamy Family
Choosing the right early learning environment in Perth is a significant decision for your family. The Akidamy offers a distinct approach to foundational education, positioned not merely as a childcare centre but as an early learning school. We are dedicated to cultivating a genuine love for learning and establishing a robust foundation for lifelong success. This commitment to educational rigour and holistic development appeals to parents who prioritise comprehensive growth beyond basic care.
We have drafted this section to help families provide answers to commonly asked questions. If your question has not been raised or discussed, please email the school office, and we will respond in a timely manner.
School Policies, Procedures & FAQs
If you have any further questions, please reach out to the Staff, or information and or school policies can be sourced on the School Knowledge Platform.
Our Unique Education Philosophy & Approach
What is The Akidamy's core educational philosophy?
- The Akidamy’s educational approach is guided by a deeply responsive philosophy that champions innate curiosity in every child. Our primary inspiration comes from the Reggio Emilia philosophy, which views children as capable, curious, and creative constructors of their own knowledge. This core focus is thoughtfully enriched by principles drawn from Resources for Infant Educarers (RIE) and the Pikler approach, emphasising respectful care, secure attachment, and natural motor development. This comprehensive integration leads to a nuanced and responsive learning environment.
- Reggio Emilia Inspired: Children are active co-constructors of knowledge.
- RIE & Pikler Principles: Focus on respectful care, secure attachment, and natural development.
- Inquiry-Based Learning: Fosters exploration through carefully designed provocations and open-ended materials.
- Intrinsic Motivation: Nurturing a lifelong positive disposition towards learning.
What is Reggio Emilia Approach?
The Reggio Emilia Approach, originating from the municipal infant-toddler centres and preschools of Reggio Emilia, Italy, following World War II, views the child as strong, capable, and competent, a co-constructor of their own knowledge, and possessing “a hundred languages” for expression. This highly collaborative and project-based philosophy places the environment as the “third teacher,” meticulously designed to be aesthetically pleasing, rich in materials, and provocative, inviting exploration, creativity, and connection. Central to the Reggio approach is the extensive documentation of children’s learning processes, making their thoughts, theories, discussions, and discoveries visible through various media to children, parents, and educators. The curriculum is emergent, driven by children’s interests and inquiries, leading to in-depth, long-term projects that allow children to explore topics using diverse “languages” such as art, drama, construction, and discussion. Educators act as co-learners, researchers, and provocateurs, guiding children’s inquiry, while strong emphasis is placed on the vital collaboration between children, educators, families, and the wider community.
As dedicated members of the Reggio Emilia Australia Information Exchange (REAIE), we’re committed to upholding and evolving the highest standards of this world-renowned approach, fostering a community of continuous learning and excellence.
What does "Nothing but the Child" mean for my family?
The “Nothing but the Child” ethos is a cornerstone of The Akidamy’s service model, designed to provide unparalleled convenience and peace of mind for Perth families. This core principle means we take care of all daily essentials for each child, simplifying your routine and reducing parental stress.
- All-Inclusive Care: Nutritious, chef-prepared meals and snacks provided daily.
- Daily Essentials Covered: Nappies, bedding, hats, and bottles (washed and replaced regularly for hygiene).
- Learning Materials Supplied: All necessary educational resources are provided.
- Stress-Free Mornings: Eliminates the need for parents to pack bags.
- Focus on Learning: Allows children to concentrate entirely on discovery and development.
A welcome pack contains everything you need to make your days at The Akidamy stress free.
- Canvas bag: Your child’s own to bring in any belongings each day.
- Akidamy T-Shirt: Yours to keep, just let us know when your little one needs to size up.
- Water Bottle & Hat: Your child’s own to stay here at the school, where it will be labelled, washed every day, and replaced during the year.
- Handy Information: Quick reference guides to answer all your questions. Remember we are just a call or email away for anything further.
How are The Akidamy's learning environments designed?
Our learning environments are architecturally designed to function as a “Third Teacher,” meticulously planned with each child’s education, safety, and holistic well-being as the utmost priority.
- Stimulating & Safe: Abundant natural light and diverse materials invite exploration and wonder.
- Flexible & Adaptable: Free-flow studios and outdoor spaces evolve with children’s interests.
- Promotes Expression: Curated to encourage children’s “hundred languages” (art, movement, construction).
- Nurtures Independence: An aesthetically pleasing atmosphere actively nurtures independent thought and creativity.
How does The Akidamy prepare my child for future schooling?
Preparing Your Child for a Bright Future: A Positive and Confident Start
At The Akidamy, we understand that preparing your child for future schooling is a significant step, and we want this to be an overwhelmingly positive and exciting experience for your entire family. Our commitment is to provide an unparalleled educational foundation that ignites a genuine love for learning, setting the stage for a lifetime of confidence and success.
Ensuring a Confident and Joyful Transition:
We look beyond just academic readiness, focusing on nurturing your child’s whole being, ensuring they embrace their next adventure with enthusiasm:
Holistic Confidence for New Adventures: We go beyond traditional academics, gently nurturing your child’s natural abilities. They’ll confidently develop critical thinking, discover effective problem-solving strategies, and build a strong sense of agency, meaning they’ll feel empowered and ready to embrace new challenges with a positive outlook.
Sparking a Lifelong Love for Learning: We believe learning should be joyful and engaging! Our environment encourages children to question, investigate, and discover with genuine excitement. This natural curiosity fosters intrinsic motivation, transforming learning into an adventure they’re eager to continue.
Building Essential Skills with Ease: Our thoughtfully designed environments blend structure with flexibility, allowing children to naturally develop crucial foundational skills. They’ll gain the confidence and essential academic and social competencies needed for a smooth and happy transition into primary school, making their next step feel like a natural progression.
Cultivating Resilient and Curious Explorers: Your child will leave The Akidamy not just academically prepared, but as a well-rounded, vibrant individual. They’ll be resilient in facing new experiences, brimming with curiosity about the world, and socially competent to form wonderful connections. We empower them to step into future challenges with enthusiasm and a positive mindset.
With The Akidamy, you can feel reassured that your child is not just prepared for school, but truly excited for a future filled with learning, growth, and endless possibilities. We’re here to make this journey a positive and memorable one for your family.
Programs & Daily Life at The Akidamy
What age groups does The Akidamy cater to?
The Akidamy provides individualised attention through tailored age-group studios, ensuring programs meet specific developmental needs:
- Nursery (N1 & N2): For children aged 3 to 24 months. Our Nursery is divided into two sub-groups: N1 (3 to 12 months) and N2 (12 to 24 months). This division allows for highly tailored care and learning experiences for our youngest children. Learn more about our Nursery spaces on our website.
- Toddlers: 24 months to 3 years.
- Kindergarten 3: 3 to 4 years.
- Kindergarten 4: 4 years and above.
Movement between studios is based on developmental readiness, not just age, aligning with individual interests and milestones for optimal progression.
What does a typical day look like for my child at The Akidamy?
While specific daily routines are responsive to each child and age group, the overarching experience at The Akidamy is characterised by continuous discovery and learning within thoughtfully designed, free-flow studios and expansive outdoor spaces.
- “Third Teacher” Environment: Our physical space is intentionally crafted to stimulate curiosity and connection.
- Inquiry-Based Engagement: Children actively explore with rich, open-ended materials.
- Expert Guidance: Educators observe and respond to each child’s unique stage and emerging interests.
- Dynamic & Enriching: Each day fosters independent thought and problem-solving.
What kind of meals & daily essentials are provided?
Consistent with The Akidamy’s “Nothing but the Child” philosophy, all daily essentials are comprehensively provided, ensuring your child receives optimal nutrition and care throughout the day.
- Chef-Prepared Meals: Nutritious meals and snacks are prepared daily with restaurant-grade ingredients.
- Seasonal Vegetarian Menu: Our menu is seasonal vegetarian, rotating every four weeks to ensure variety and fresh produce.
- Dietary Inclusivity: We thoughtfully cater to children with allergies and ensure all dietary and nutritional requirements are met for every child.
- Daily Essentials Covered: Beyond meals, this includes nappies, bedding, hats, and bottles (washed and replaced regularly for hygiene), and all necessary learning materials.
- Seamless Experience: This comprehensive provision ensures a seamless and effortless experience for both children and parents, with no need to pack supplies.
How we Transition Children between Studios (Aged Group)
Our comprehensive onboarding and studio transition process ensures a smooth and supportive journey for both children and families, designed with individual social and developmental milestones at its heart, occurring thoughtfully over several weeks.
- Developmental Readiness: Progression based on social and developmental milestones, not just age.
- Observation & Assessment: Continuous educator observation across all domains.
- Familiarisation Visits: Multiple opportunities to visit new studio, meet educators, and explore.
- Continuity of Relationships: Familiar educators will maintain strong connections with children who are transitioning and may transition with children requiring additional support.
- Information Sharing: Detailed child’s learning journey shared between current and new educators.
- Family Collaboration: Families actively involved in planning and discussions.
This multi-week, child-centred approach ensures gentle, supportive transitions, fostering confidence and a continued love for learning as they progress through The Akidamy.
What does O-Soji (おそじ) mean?
We are inspired by the O-Soji – おそじ japanese principles, where children are developing lifelong habits. What does this mean? This applied to various elements based on children’s age and development requirements. No, this isn’t a way for the Akidamy to save money on cleaners; it is to encourage healthy behaviours that build self-confidence and instill children’s sense of responsibility for their environment and work as team members. It can include the following:
- Cleaning Classrooms, serving lunch to each other, and cooking.
- O-soji starts after each main meal for 15 minutes at the same time every day
- On the last day of each season (every qtr.), there is a longer sprucing-up called osoji (big cleaning). Throughout cleaning time, the public announcement system blasts cheerful marching music (“the o-soji song,” children call it).
- Every class is responsible for cleaning its own classroom and two other places in the school. Children are divided into han (small groups) to clean together.
- Older students need to experience helping younger children, and younger children are provided with a role model.
If you want to learn more, watch this video or read this article to get further background.
Our Dedicated Educators & Community
What qualifications and experience do The Akidamy's educators possess?
The Akidamy is deeply committed to providing expert-led care and education through a unique and highly qualified staffing model.
- Educators: Completed Diploma and in the process of completing qualification and being mentored by Studio Lear and Education Leader.
- Studio Leader: Diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care, 5+ years experience, manages studio operations.
- Studio Teacher: Degree-qualified Early Childhood Teacher responsible for all education programming in every studio.
- Specialist Team: Supported by a School Director, Educational Leader (Pedagogista), Art Teacher (Atelierista), and Italian Teacher.
- Education Leader(Pedagogista): 7+ years of experience in early childhood education and are well-versed in industry best practices. They hold formal qualifications that enable them to effectively support and lead the educational team. We are committed to fostering a positive learning environment aligned with the values of the Akidamy.
- School Director: is responsible for the school management and leadership possesses over 15 years of extensive experience in education, backed by advanced qualifications, international expertise in early childhood education, and a proven track record as a strong Educational Leader.
Consistency and Commitment: Low staff turnover and higher staff-to-child ratios contribute to a stable and enriching learning environment. The school does not hire casual or agency employees, ensuring that our educational staff members are fully engaged and committed to the children’s safety, development, and their own professional growth through continued study.
How does The Akidamy ensure consistent care and strong relationships?
- How does The Akidamy ensure consistent care and strong relationships? Consistent care and the cultivation of strong relationships are paramount at The Akidamy, crucial for children’s emotional security and development.
- Dedicated Educators: Children consistently interact with familiar faces.
- RIE & Pikler Alignment: Prioritises responsive, respectful caregiving and deep, trusting bonds.
- Individualised Understanding: Educators deeply understand individual needs and developmental stages.
- Safe & Confident Environment: Children feel safe, understood, and confident to explore and learn.
What Make The Akidamy Difference
How does The Akidamy stand out from tradional Childscare, Daycare or Services?
The Akidamy fundamentally distinguishes itself as an “early learning school” in Perth and Fremantle, offering an unparalleled educational foundation that moves beyond conventional childcare.
- Early Learning School Focus: Cultivating a genuine love for learning for lifelong success.
- Unique Philosophical Blend: Deeply responsive education combining Reggio Emilia, RIE, and Pikler principles.
- “Nothing but the Child” Ethos: All daily essentials (meals, nappies, learning materials) provided for unparalleled family convenience.
- Expert Staffing: Early Childhood Teachers present in every studio, ensuring consistent pedagogical guidance.
- Consistent Care: Dedicated educators, low staff turnover, and high staff ratios foster strong, trusting relationships.
- “Third Teacher” Environments: Architecturally designed spaces actively stimulate learning, curiosity, and connection.
- Active Founder: Our founders (i.e., we prefer the term ‘founders’ over ‘owners’) are not just passionate about early childhood education; they’re also like enthusiastic parents cheering on their children at a soccer game. They are hands-on in cultivating a supportive team culture and encouraging professional growth, all while ensuring a high standard of governance, leadership, safety, and educational practices. We believe in always striving for improvement—because let’s face it, who doesn’t want to be the best version of themselves (and make learning a little more fun along the way)?
How do The Akidamy's Fremantle & Perth Schools differ?
How do The Akidamy’s Fremantle and Perth schools differ? While both The Akidamy Fremantle and The Akidamy Perth share our core educational philosophy and commitment to excellence, they are like siblings – sharing similarities yet having distinct characteristics. Each school is deeply connected to its local community, and this influences how our approach is subtly expressed.
- Shared Philosophy: Both schools adhere to our unique blend of Reggio Emilia, RIE, and Pikler principles, ensuring a consistent high standard of early learning.
- Community Influence: The unique traits of the local communities (Fremantle’s vibrant arts scene, Perth’s urban dynamic) and the families they serve shape slightly varied approaches to engaging with children.
- Tailored Engagement: While the foundational curriculum is consistent, educators at each location adapt their methods and provocations to resonate with the specific interests and cultural contexts of their children and families. This ensures learning experiences are always relevant and deeply engaging.
- Distinctive Environments: Fremantle is our newest school, featuring a rooftop sky garden with expansive views, two dedicated Atelier spaces, and a bright, contemporary design that reflects the surrounding creative community. Its central location offers convenient access and opportunities for community engagement. Perth combines architecturally designed learning studios with character-rich heritage spaces. A dedicated Atelier and project space sit alongside a tree-filled community park, creating a strong connection to nature and encouraging outdoor exploration.
- Consistent Quality: Regardless of location, families can expect the same commitment to expert-led education, our “Nothing but the Child” ethos, and beautifully designed learning environments.
We encourage prospective families to visit the school that best suits their location to experience its unique community feel firsthand.
General Questions
What are our operating hours?
Our school is open from 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. We close for Public Holidays and are generally closed between Christmas and New Year’s.
Can I visit The Akidamy? How do I book a tour?
Prospective families are warmly invited to experience The Akidamy firsthand. Explore our beautiful learning spaces and gain a deeper understanding of our unique environment and philosophy.
- Personalised Tours: Book your visit to our early learning school.
- Direct Engagement: Discuss your child’s needs directly with our friendly staff.
How do I enrol or go onto our wailtlist my child at The Akidamy
To begin your child’s journey at The Akidamy, prospective families are encouraged to visit our website’s dedicated enrolment section or contact our team directly.
- Initial Inquiry: Start by reaching out to us.
- Take a Personalised Tour: Experience our learning environment firsthand and meet our team.
- Right Fit: Discuss your child’s needs to ensure The Akidamy is the perfect fit with the school team.
- Enrolment Form: Please fill in the online enrolment form; depending on the commencement period, your name will be added to the school’s waitlist.
For a detailed, step-by-step guide on our enrolment process, please visit our Enrolment Page.
What is the difference between the Waitlist Fee and the Enrolment Fee?
What is the difference between the Waitlist Fee and the Enrolment Fee?
A non-refundable Waitlist Fee of $150 is charged by direct debit before your child’s first day if their intended start date is more than twelve weeks (three months) away. You can hold a place up to twenty-four months in advance. If you later push your child’s start date beyond that twenty-four month window, a further waitlist fee applies for each additional extension period. If you are already part of our school community and are enrolling a sibling, or welcoming twins, no waitlist fee applies.
The Enrolment Fee of $150 is non-refundable and payable prior to joining the school, payment is made online via direct debit.
What are the fees, and is Child Care Subsidy (CCS) available, calculated, and paid?
General Questions
The Akidamy is an approved provider for the Australian Government’s Child Care Subsidy (CCS), designed to help eligible families reduce early learning costs.
- CCS Approved: We are an approved provider for government subsidies. We have attached a CCS Estimator for a high-level estimate. Please contact MyGov for further details, which can be sourced from the Centrelink online account.
- Fee Information: Contact us directly for current fee structures.
- Personalised Estimate: Receive an estimate of out-of-pocket costs after CCS application.
- Eligibility: CCS eligibility is based on family income, activity levels, and child’s age.
Which information do you require for my child to claim Childcare Subsidy?
To claim CCS, you must provide the CRN number of the CCS claimant and the CRN number of your child. You can apply for Childcare Subsidy through Centrelink. Once we submit your CRN numbers to CCS, you need to approve the enrolment in your MyGov account before your CCS becomes active. For detailed information on CCS eligibility and how it applies to our fees, please refer to the Services Australia website.
When will my CCS be paid?
Once you have approved your child’s enrolment in MyGov, your CCS payments can take up to two weeks to be paid. Your CCS will be backpaid from the start of your child’s enrolment and will automatically come through as a credit to your Akidamy account.
How is my CCS calculated?
Childcare subsidy payments are calculated based on multiple factors, including your CCS percentage, allocated hours per fortnight, sessions per fortnight, our cost per session, and session duration. Please keep Centrelink updated with any changes, such as your address or work circumstances.
We invite you to chat with us to discuss our fees in detail and discover the full scope of benefits and unique services that set The Akidamy apart.
How long is your waitlist?
Our most considerable intake period is between December and February, as our oldest children transition to primary school. There are also a few movements occurring around mid-year. Nursery and Toddler enrolments are generally available throughout the year.
Onboarding for New Families & Children:
The enrolment process begins with an initial inquiry and a personalised tour, allowing families to experience our environment and discuss their child’s needs. Upon enrolment, families are provided with detailed information about our philosophy, programs, policies, and daily routines. We gather essential information about each child’s interests, strengths, and individual needs, including any medical or dietary requirements, to ensure a tailored approach from day one.
A crucial part of onboarding is the settling-in process, which involves a series of staggered visits to gradually familiarise the child with their new environment, educators, and peers. This gentle introduction helps children feel secure and comfortable, fostering a sense of belonging. Educators work closely with parents during this period, understanding each child’s unique rhythms and cues to ensure a positive transition from home to school. For comprehensive details on our onboarding process, please refer to our Knowledge Platform (Onboarding Procedures) and the School Parent Handbook (available upon enrolment).
You are required to attend two, 1 hour orientation visits a week before the enrolment commences. These visits will allow your child to become familiar with their new environment and give you the opportunity to ask the educators any questions you may have. You are not required to bring anything to orientations; however, we ask that you please stay on the premises, as your child will not count in the ratio on the day.
What happens on my child’s first day of enrolment?
We understand that your child’s first day can involve mixed emotions. Our team is very experienced and is here to answer any of your concerns and assist you in the transition. Each morning, your child will be greeted at the door where a team member will take them to their studio to begin their day. Please feel free to call Reception at any time to ask for an immediate update or check the EarlyWorks app for Daily Communications.
What do I need to bring each day?
The Akidamy’s philosophy is based around ‘Nothing But The Child’, where you can rest assured that your child will be provided with everything they need to enjoy their day. This includes all meals, water bottle, hat, sunscreen, spare clothes, nappies, formula, wet weather gear and so much more. We ask that your child comes dressed appropriately for the weather with shoes and clothing that covers their shoulders for sun protection. The only exceptions are around breast milk and formula bottles. Please see our Family Handbook for our detailed policy or speak with our team.
Why does The Akidamy have a two-day minimium attendance policy?
The Akidamy implements a two-day minimum attendance policy to ensure the most beneficial and consistent experience for every child. This policy is rooted in our deep understanding of early childhood development and the pedagogical principles that guide our approach:
- Fostering Security and Belonging: Consistent attendance helps children build strong, trusting relationships with their educators and peers. A regular presence allows them to feel more secure and develop a stronger sense of belonging within the Akidamy community, which is crucial for emotional well-being.
- Supporting Learning and Development: Our inquiry-based, Reggio Emilia-inspired curriculum thrives on continuity. Attending at least two days a week ensures children are consistently engaged with ongoing projects, provocations, and learning experiences. This regular exposure allows them to deepen their understanding, build upon previous discoveries, and fully immerse themselves in the learning environment.
- Smooth Transitions: For younger children, especially in our Nursery and Toddler studios, consistent attendance aids significantly in their settling-in process and reduces separation anxiety. Regularity helps them anticipate and feel comfortable with their routine.
- Maximising Benefits: The holistic benefits of our unique blend of Reggio Emilia, RIE, and Pikler philosophies are best realised through consistent engagement. This policy ensures your child can fully participate in and benefit from the rich, diverse experiences offered at The Akidamy.
This policy is designed to support your child’s emotional security, social integration, and continuous educational progress, ensuring they gain the most from their time at The Akidamy.
What do I do if my child is unwell?
Please see the included fact sheet on when your child should stay home and associated exclusion periods for illness. If your child will be absent from the school, please call, email or leave a Comment in EarlyWorks to let us know. If your child is absent, we’ll give you a courtesy call just to check in.
Can we add or swap a permanent session?
We have an Internal Waitlist for our current families who have requests to add or swap a session for their child; however, you will need to give two weeks notice. The families on our Internal Waitlist have priority over the families on our External Waitlist. We will reach out to you as soon as we can accommodate your request.
If your child is sick, you will need to pay for the child’s planned attended day. There is no swap or extra day that can be exchanged or given to another child. If you still require additional days from planned attendance days depending on occupancy you need to pay for a casual day if you want additional days.
Do you charge fees on Public Holidays?
Our school is closed on public holidays. If a public holiday falls on a day your child would normally attend, your regular daily fee will still apply. If your child will not be attending around a public holiday, a holiday rate may be applied in place of the full fee — simply provide two weeks’ written notice.
Daily fees reflect the full cost of employing our permanent staff year-round, which is why fees continue to apply on public holidays. Please note that when the school observes an end-of-year closure (generally 27–31 December), families are not charged for those days.
Can we book in casual days?
Casual days may be requested through our software platform, SmartCentral. Parents may request as many casual days as they wish. You will receive an email from SmartCentral to confirm if your request has been approved. Casual bookings are approved a week in advance. You are welcome to call our phone on the day to request a casual session.
What is the Holiday Rate?
The Holiday Rate is a 10% discount off our daily fee. Two weeks written notice is required to receive the discounted rate. The amount of Holiday Rates you’re entitled to depends on the amount of sessions your child is enrolled in each week. Holiday rates refresh each financial year.
For example, if your child attends two sessions per week, you are entitled to 8 Holiday Rates per financial year (4x the number of sessions per week).
Are there designated drop-off bays for parents at the School?
At the School, we understand the importance of a smooth drop-off process for parents. That’s why we have designated drop-off bays, ensuring your child’s safety and your convenience. Please note that parents are limited to a 1-hour stay in these bays.
At Fremantle school, the areas on Level 1 are clearly marked. The location is adjacent to the school’s elevator.
The Perth school has several car bays adjacent to the entrance of both Summers and Cheriton Houses.
Is the School serviced by public transport and cycling paths?
Yes, both schools have excellent public transport options and are located near the main cycling, walking, and running paths that connect the schools to the CBD and vice versa. Both schools are designed with your commuting needs in mind. The School’s convenient location near train stations and bus services streamlines your daily drop-offs and pick-ups.
- The Perth School is located 75 metres from East Perth Station and 300 metres from Claisebrook Station, which offers free rides into the Perth CBD (i.e., this station is a free transport zone). Additionally, the School is 125 metres from a Transperth bus service that operates within the free transport zone in the Perth CBD.
- The Fremantle School is situated across the road from Fremantle Station and the Fremantle Bus Port Services.
You can find the Public Transport Service times on the Transperth website. For information on biking and walking, maps are available on the Department of Transport’s website.
The School offers “End of Use Facilities” for parents who need to change or dress for work. The school provides free shampoo, soap, and towels as part of these facilities. Additionally, on-site bike bays are available for parents who commute by bike. Parents can contact the Office & Experience Coordinator at each school if they require assistance or towels. We kindly ask that you tidy up after using these shared facilities.
Can parents drop off their pram or booster seat at the School?
Please place these items in the designated areas at the entrance and near the main office at the Perth school. You can also do this at the Fremantle school in the pram storeroom.
