The Learning Nest Academy, 51 Vine Avenue
The story of The Learning Nest Academy begins in 2002, when Dr. Walter Heidary set out to solve a challenge he encountered firsthand: the lack of academically focused childcare options in the city. Rather than settle for the status quo, he took action and opened his first centre, Pathways Academy. That initial vision has since grown into a network of childcare centres across the GTHA, including a location right here in The Junction.
Among the company’s various brands, The Learning Nest Academy was created to set a new standard in early childhood education and care. The academy combines research-backed teaching methods, thoughtfully designed environments, and over 20 years of experience working with more than 10,000 children. The result is a nurturing and inspiring place where creativity blossoms, curiosity is encouraged, and a lifelong love of learning takes root during the most crucial years of development.
When The Learning Nest Academy opened its doors in The Junction earlier this year, Nicky Paderes stepped into the role of Director with great excitement. A longtime Junction resident and passionate advocate for early childhood education, Nicky brings both professional insight and genuine care to her role. She’s dedicated to designing personalized programming based on proven methods, building a trusted and supportive community for parents, and ensuring every child’s individual needs are met with empathy and flexibility. For Nicky, it is deeply rewarding to see the academy grow into a safe place where children feel secure to explore, discover, and develop. She also finds joy in the symbolic name “The Learning Nest,” which reflects the perfect balance of academic growth and nurturing care. (And yes, she’s also a big fan of the little birds in the logo!)
The Learning Nest Academy in The Junction specializes in academic-focused early education for children aged 0 to 5, offering everything from attentive infant care to preschool programs designed to ease the transition into primary school. Understanding how much development takes place before a child even enters kindergarten, the academy’s educators design every program from the ground up to support foundational growth. Their curriculum draws from three well-established educational frameworks: Montessori, which promotes independence, patience, persistence, and self-discipline; HighScope, which emphasizes active learning, hands-on exploration, and collaborative play; and Core Knowledge, which uses structured, sequential lessons to build essential academic skills like reading and critical thinking. The common thread through all these approaches is a commitment to nurturing each child’s curiosity, creativity, and confidence to ensure they are both school-ready and life-ready.
The hands-on role educators play is equally important to The Learning Nest’s work. Their team understands that from birth to age five, children are absorbing and processing information at an extraordinary rate. Adult guidance during these years can make a profound difference, which is why educators at the academy are both actively involved and continuously learning themselves. The curriculum is always evolving to incorporate the latest research in early childhood development, including baby sign language to help infants communicate and the natural integration of STEM concepts. Recognizing the importance of nutrition in a child’s development, the academy also has an in-house chef who prepares fresh, vitamin-rich meals and snacks from scratch. This thoughtful approach ensures every child is healthy, energized, and ready to make the most of each day.
With over two decades of experience and a long list of happy families, The Learning Nest Academy continues to deliver exceptional outcomes. Nicky and her team are committed to creating a vibrant learning community to help tomorrow’s achievers get the best possible start in life. They look forward to welcoming you and your family to experience it for yourselves.
Check out The Learning Nest’s website to learn more about their programs and care options.
Written by: James Watson
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