Welcome to Poplars Early Learning

Family-owned, values-led, and proudly supporting families across Holt and soon Jerrabomberra.

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    Experienced Local Operator

    Trusted and Knowledgeable in Early Learning

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    Proven Educational Excellence

    Quality Curriculum refined Through Experience

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    Enrolling Children from 6 weeks

    Caring for every stage of early development

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    Bush Kindy Program

    An immersive nature-based learning experience.

A woman, likely a caregiver or teacher, interacts with four young children sitting at a wooden table outdoors surrounded by greenery. The children are engaged in an activity, and the woman is handing one child an object, possibly a toy or learning tool.

A New Beginning, Guided by Experience

Poplars Early Learning is a family-owned early learning provider with a clear focus: to create calm, connected environments where children feel safe, confident, and ready to explore.

Led by the experienced team behind Coombs Early Learning, Poplars is grounded in inquiry-led practice, meaningful relationships, and a strong sense of community. Every element, from the design of our environments to our partnerships with families, reflects our commitment to high-quality care and lifelong learning.

Growing at Poplars

At Poplars Early Learning Centre, we understand that every stage of your child’s early years is precious. That’s why our learning environments are designed to meet the developmental needs of every child.

For our littlest ones, we create a cosy, loving space where they feel safe and cared for. With gentle, sensory activities, we encourage curiosity, first friendships, and early communication—all while offering the warmth and attention they need.

Our toddler program is all about discovery and building confidence. With plenty of room to explore, create, and express themselves, your child will begin to grow their independence, make friends, and find joy in learning new things every day.

As your child prepares for their next big step, our preschool program blends fun and learning to build essential skills. From early literacy and problem-solving to forming a love of learning, we’ll help your child feel ready and excited for school.

A Message from Fiona

Approved Provider

Hi, I’m Fiona O’Donnell, the proud Approved Provider behind Poplars Early Learning.

For over 30 years, I’ve worked in early childhood education, and I still feel just as passionate about creating environments where children feel safe, seen and supported. Poplars is built on the same foundation as Coombs Early Learning, a place where meaningful relationships, inquiry-based learning and genuine care are at the heart of each day.

I’m so proud to reopen Holt under new ownership with refreshed spaces, and I’m equally excited to welcome families to our brand-new Jerrabomberra centre soon. I hope Poplars feels like a place your family can truly belong.

Warmly,
Fiona

Text reading 'Bush Kindy' on a beige background.

Learning Beyond the Classroom

Our Bush Kindy program is launching in Term 4 and will offer children meaningful time to explore, question and connect with the natural world around them.

With space to climb, build, collect and observe, children will be supported by caring educators as they develop confidence, independence and a strong sense of respect for their environment.

Bush Kindy is more than outdoor play — it’s a real-world extension of our inquiry-based approach, where nature becomes the teacher and every discovery matters.

Join the Poplars Family

We’d love to welcome your family into our community. Places are limited, so book a tour today to secure your child’s spot in our caring, family-owned centre.

What’s Included in the Poplars
Early Learning Experience

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  • A young girl with blonde hair and a gray shirt smiling and touching two trees in a forest during daytime, with sunlight filtering through the leaves. Text overlay says 'Educational Incursions' with a leaf icon.
  • A woman and a young girl are seated at a table in a colorful room, engaged in an activity. The woman is smiling and looking at the girl, who is focused on something in front of her. There are drawings and toys visible in the background.
  • A young girl with curly hair hugging a tree in a forest, sunlight shining behind her, with text overlay that reads 'Open 50 weeks of the year'.

Now Enroling at Poplars Holt

Poplars Early Learning is now enrolling at our Holt centre. Please fill out your details, and our team will endeavour to get back to you shortly.

Our Jerrabomberra centre is opening this October, join our waitlist to keep up to date with opening dates.