Parenting education services in Hunter New England

Our programs help you and your partner to physically, mentally and emotionally prepare for your pregnancy, birth, early parenting and feeding your baby.

happy parents holding their child
On this page

About our parenting education services

happy parents holding their child

Learning about your pregnancy and growing baby, preparing for labour and the birth of your baby, and preparing for the joys and challenges of becoming a parent are all important parts of your antenatal care and planning.

Attending face to face education programs will help you to learn more about your birth and parenting journey. You will share the experience with other pregnant women and families which is a valuable opportunity to meet others about to become new parents.

We also offer interactive online live streamed programs, facilitated by an experienced healthcare professional who will help engage with your online group through all aspects of pregnancy, birth and early parenting.

We believe that knowledge reduces fear and promotes confidence.

Cost

There are fees for some of our programs, in line with most Australian maternity services. Concessions and health fund rebates are available.

How to book

View our face to face program availability and online live program availability for each region and contact your local maternity service to book in.

John Hunter Hospital bookings

For John Hunter Hospital bookings, download and complete our online booking form (PDF 266.55KB) and email it back to us on HNELHD-JHHParentingEducation@health.nsw.gov.au

We will send you a booking confirmation email with instructions on how to pay (if applicable). We request that payment be made prior to the commencement of the program.

6:07

Hunter New England LHD Parenting Education Service

Our parenting education classes will give you and your partner the confidence and skills needed to support you on your pregnancy, birthing and early parenthood journey. 
 

Read transcript
Video transcript

Hunter New England LHD Parenting Education Service

[Program participant]
 
I won't be going to labor room because I'm unaware and I am I'm scared of what to expect. It was so emotional to me to have finally, after nine months and to hold her and it just made the world, whole world made sense to me and it was beautiful.
 
[Jane Shields: Clinical Midwife Consultant, Parenting Education]
 
For expectant parents, pregnancy is an exciting time of discovery and learning. It's a time of great anticipation when couples dream about meeting their new baby and growing their family.
 
[Program participant]
 
How did we feel when we met you for the first time? Just pure joy, incredible, no feeling like it in the world.
 
[Karen McLaughlin: Midwife, Parenting Educator]
 
It's also a time of decision - making baby names. Where will I give birth? How will I birth my baby? How do I change a nappy and when are those immunizations due again?
 
[Program participant]

Um well some of the skills we learned was how to breathe properly, not to stress when I went into labor, what to expect.
 
[Jane Shields: Clinical Midwife Consultant, Parenting Education]
 
In today's world, we have information at our fingertips, but how do we know that this information is reliable or even relevant to new parents?
 
[Program participant]
 
It really came down to the letting us know that we had choices and it gave us that choice beforehand. You know what you want when you go into birthing because when you get there, a lot of things happen really quickly and it's good to have your support person or the person who's actually in the room with you knowing what you'd like.
 
[Donna Griffis: Midwife, Parenting Educator]
 
Here at the John Hunter Hospital parenting education service we offer first-class programs for expectant parents.
 
[Program participant]
 
The main benefit for me, from the class really was it gave us an opportunity to have a conversation before and get a mutual understanding of the general process of birth, but also of how we wanted this particular birth to happen and the support that Craig could provide and being the support person and I think it made a massive difference on the day that Craig had something to do and that he was able to provide support to me, which I don't think he would have been able to do if he hadn't had such a clear understanding of what was going on.
 
[Alison Summerville: Midwife, Parenting Educator]
 
We offer early pregnancy programs, young mothers programs, culturally specific classes, classes for dads and our very popular breastfeeding classes.
 
[Program participant]
 
I'd rate it 10 out of 10. They're just really lovely people, they taught like, they prepared us a lot for the labor and they were very supportive so, that's why it's 10 out of 10.
 
[Dr Chris May: Midwife, Parenting Educator]
 
Our goal is to provide you with reliable, up-to-date information to help you make informed decisions about your care.
 
[Program participant]
 
The classes had given us some understanding of what to expect, so that when we got home we understood what we needed to do and we could grow and learn with Lillian over the next few months.
 
[Jane Shields: Clinical Midwife Consultant, Parenting Education]
 
Gathering information and knowledge at this time helps to build awareness and confidence.
 
[Program participant]
 
The main piece of advice I'd give is go and, go and do all the education you can, you want to find out things before you get there and have to have to do it for real that that's number one, yeah.
 
[Program participant]
 
Are you right for the next one? Ah, what would I say to people about doing the course? I'm probably your typical Australian bloke, I didn't think I'd get too much out of it the little tips and tricks that you do get along the way really helpful and you probably don't even realise that you're learning anything until you're in that situation and you you're pulling that information you know back into real time.
 
[Joan Hawkins: Midwife, Parenting Educator]
 
We provide an environment which is informal relaxed and conducive to learning.
 
[Program participant]
 
You need a little bit of guidance and this place is friendly, it's warm, it's welcoming and it's safe.
 
[Program participant]
 
Parenting classes really help, because they do prepare you.
 
[Donna Griffis: Midwife, Parenting Educator]
 
The beauty of group learning is it allows couples to learn from each other and of course, this social aspect, you get to meet other expectant couples and we're going to have some fun along the way. The best part
from the group would be the reunion. We got to share our birth stories and have a laugh and you know have a look at all the beautiful babies and yeah for me that was definitely the highlight.
 
[Penny Williams: Midwife, Parenting Educator]
 
And you know, we often hear about couples who meet up in our classes and they form their own social networks and then they become lifelong friends. So community can start right here with us.
 
[Program participant]
 
Our group were wonderful we have and still have a great relationship and us women meet up with our new little babies and share concerns or questions and even the exciting moments with each other.
 
[Sarah Corrigan: Aboriginal Health Worker]
 
In our classes, you are welcome to bring along whoever is going to give you the best birth experience whether that's mum, Aunt, sister, partner, best friend, it's about what's going to make it good for you.
 
[Program participant]
 
The class has helped me to be a support person by really giving me an understanding of what Peta, my partner would go through, was going to experience both before during and after labor and then also how I can be of assistance once Lillian was born.
 
[Donna Griffis: Midwife, Parenting Educator]
 
We'd love to see you at one of our programs. We've helped thousands of couples prepare for the birth of their baby and we'd love to help you.
 
[Jane Shields: Clinical Midwife Consultant, Parenting Education]
 
Parenting education programs, where knowledge promotes confidence.
 
[Program participant]
 
This class has prepared me and gave me confidence to go into that room and thank you, it's changed my life.
 
[Jane Shields: Clinical Midwife Consultant, Parenting Education]
 
To learn more about our programs, please visit our website. For bookings you can send us an email or you can call us and speak to one of our friendly staff.

I felt prepared for anything - best money spent on any course!

Program participant

Good time out from our busy lives to focus on the pregnancy as a couple...it reinforced what we read on internet...partner found it very helpful.

Program participant

Our programs

We're here to support you with education, resources and advice at any stage of your pregnancy journey. Learn more about our educational programs.

Pregnancy Wise
Program nameTopicsWhen to attendDelivery mode and costDuration

Pregnancy Wise

Available at John Hunter Hospital only.

This is a one off early pregnancy information session for pregnant women led by an experienced women’s health physiotherapist. 

This session will help you to understand:

  • The normal changes that occur throughout the pregnancy.
  • Caring for yourself and your baby during pregnancy, including safe exercise and movement, back care and eating well.
  • When to contact your doctor or midwife.

You will participate in a 1 hour practical exercise work out, please notify us if you have any conditions that may prevent you from participating in the exercises.

From 14 - 24 weeks gestation

Face to face

  •  

Online live stream

  •  
2 hours
$25Face to face only
Birth and parenting
Program nameTopicsWhen to attendDelivery mode and costDuration
Birth and parenting

Will support your understanding of labour and birth and becoming a parent. Your booking fee covers both yourself and your support person.

Attendees will receive a free booklet: Preparing for birth: Mothers (JHH face to face participants only).

Topics include:

  • Self-help strategies for labour and birth, including ways that the support person can offer support to the labouring woman and when to come to hospital
  • Making informed decisions about your care, unexpected events of labour and after the birth.
  • Breastfeeding, infant sleep, settling techniques, infant communication and other baby care topics.
  • Changes in the family relationships during the period of the transition to parenthood.
  • Postpartum recovery and emotional health.
     
From 24 weeks gestation

Face to face

  •  

Online live stream

  •  

12 hours

Attendance options face to face:

  • A variety of formats.

Attendance options online:

  • 1 weekly 2-hour session for 5 weeks
  • 2 x 4-hour sessions over 2 weekends.
Cost for face-to-face class varies, depending on your hospital.$100 for live stream
Breastfeeding
Program nameTopicsWhen to attendDelivery mode and costDuration
Breastfeeding

Women report greater confidence in breastfeeding their new baby after attending this program.

One support person is welcome to attend.

  • Observe skin-to-skin care, baby’s signs of readiness to feed, attachment and positioning of baby for feeding
  • Common challenges to breastfeeding during early weeks
  • Where to find local community resources and support.
From 32 weeks' gestation

Face to face

  •  

Online live stream

  •  

2.5 hour one-off session.

An additional 30-minute session is available for pregnant women with diabetes (depending on your hospital).

FreeFree
Calmbirth®
Program nameTopicsWhen to attendDelivery mode and costDuration

Calmbirth®

Available at John Hunter Hospital only.

Calmbirth® uses mind-body connection to assist couples to replace the fear, stress and anxiety about giving birth with the knowledge and skills to birth their baby calmly, fearlessly, safely and confidently.

Find out more about Calmbirth®

Between 24- and 34-weeks' gestation

Face to face

  •  

 

 

Online live stream

  •  

 

12 hours

Attendance options:

  • Weekly 3-hour evening sessions for 4 weeks.

Attendance options may change, please refer to the class schedule.

Current fee is $550. From 1 April 2025, fee will increase to $595 (full payment required on confirmation of booking). 
Nuts and bolts of fatherhood
Program nameTopicsWhen to attendDelivery mode and costDuration
Nuts and bolts of fatherhood

For men who are about to become dads. This program is led by an experienced father and health professional. Expectant Dads will:

  • Explore the role and relationship changes likely to be experienced during transition to fatherhood.
  • Consider strategies to being an effective support person.
  • Develop an effective parenting relationship with your partner.
  • Understand infant communications, why babies cry and develop strategies for difficult times.
From 20 weeks' gestation

Face to face (Newcastle only)

  •  

Online live stream

  •  

2.5 hours

Sessions are held monthly.

$25$25
Multiple miracles
Program nameTopicsWhen to attendDelivery mode and costDuration
Multiple miracles

This session has been designed for all parents expecting twins or triplets.

You will explore topics around, birth and parenting your babies alongside other parents. We host this session with the Newcastle Multiple Birth Association.

If this is your first pregnancy you will find this is a great addition to the 12 hours Birth and Parenting program.

At any stage of pregnancy

Face to face

  •  

Online live stream

  •  

2 hours

Sessions are held monthly.

Online onlyFree
Next birth after caesarean
Program nameTopicsWhen to attendDelivery mode and costDuration
Next birth after caesarean (NBAC)

For women and their support people who have had a previous caesarean birth and are considering birth options for their current pregnancy.

This program will help you to gather current, consistent, evidence-based information before making decisions about your next birth.

The group will enable you to meet other couples with similar experiences and provide an opportunity to ask questions and seek clarity about the NBAC options.

20-24 weeks' gestation

Face to face

  •  

Online live stream

  •  

1.5 hours

Morning or evening sessions are held monthly.

 Free
Young parents birth and parenting program
Program nameTopicsWhen to attendDelivery mode and costDuration

Young parents' birth and parenting program

Available at John Hunter Hospital and Maitland Hospital only. Your support person is welcome to attend with you.

For young expectant parents under the age of 22. Facilitated by a skilled midwife and birth and parenting educator.Anytime during pregnancy

Face to face

  •  

Online live stream

  •  

4 hours

Attendance options:

  • 2-hour classes held over 2 consecutive weeks.
Free 
Planned caesarean: birth and parenting

This session is offered to pregnant women and their support person who know they will be having a planned caesarean section for the birth of their baby. This program is divided into two sessions. It is recommended if this is your first baby we recommend enrolling in both the morning and afternoon session, if this is not your first baby you may consider attending the morning session only. 

Program nameTopicsWhen to attendDelivery mode and costDuration

Planned caesarean: birth

Available at John Hunter Hospital only.

  • Pregnancy changes.
  • Preparation in pregnancy for caesarean section birth.
  • Process of caesarean birth and the birth of your baby.
  • Role of the support person at the caesarean birth and in the recovery period.
  • Making informed decisions about your care.
  • Postpartum recovery for mother and baby and emotional wellbeing.
  • Anaesthetic options for caesarean section and post-operative pain relief.
26 weeks' gestation

Face to face

  •  

Online live stream

  •  
2.5-hour morning class
$25 (or $12.50 for health care card holders) 

Planned caesarean: parenting and baby care

Available at John Hunter Hospital only.

  • Breastfeeding, infant sleep, settling techniques, infant communication and other baby care topics.
  • Changes in the family relationships during the period of the transition to parenthood and offer some strategies.
  • Caesarean birth preference sheet.
  • Caesarean hospital bag checklist.
26 weeks' gestation

Face to face

  •  

Online live stream

  •  
3-hour afternoon class
$40 (or $20 for health care card holders) 

Face to face program availability

Book into a parenting education class near you.

Armidale Hospital

Birth and parenting program — face to face

Cost: $100 (Centrelink concession/Healthcare card holders and health fund rebates available).

Program duration: 12 hours over 2 or 6 sessions.

Date classes beginClass timeNo. of classesStatus
Classes complete for 2024. Check back for 2025 schedule.TBCTBCTBC

How to book

Call the Armidale Maternity Unit to book on (02) 6776 9642 Monday to Friday from 8am to 3.30pm.

Glen Innes Hospital

To find out course availability, contact the Glenn Innes Hospital maternity unit on (02) 6739 0226 Monday to Friday from 9am to 4pm.

Gunnedah Hospital

Birth and parenting program — face to face

Cost: $100 (Centrelink concession/Healthcare card holders and health fund rebates available).

Program duration: 12 hours over 2 sessions.

DateClass TimesNo. of classesStatus
Saturday 1 February and Sunday 2 February 20258.30am - 2.30pm2 classes held over 1 weekend
  • Available
Saturday 12 April and Sunday 13 April 20258.30am - 2.30pm2 classes held over 1 weekend
  • Available
Saturday 1 February and Sunday 2 February 2025 8.30am - 2.30pm2 classes held over 1 weekend
  • Available
Saturday 15 March and Sunday 16 March 20258.30am - 2.30pm2 classes held over 1 weekend
  • Available
Saturday 26 April and Sunday 27 April 2025  8.30am - 2.30pm2 classes held over 1 weekend
  • Available
Saturday 14 June and Sunday 15 June 2025 8.30am - 2.30pm2 classes held over 1 weekend
  • Available

How to book

Your midwife can help you book or you can call Gunnedah Hospital Administration on (02) 6741 8037.

Inverell Hospital

Birth and parenting program — face to face

Cost: $100 (Centrelink concession/Healthcare card holders and health fund rebates available).

Program duration: 8 hours over 4 sessions.

Date Class timeNo. of classesStatus
Tuesday 4 February 20256pm – 8pm4 consecutive weeks
  • Available
Tuesday 11 March 20256pm – 8pm4 consecutive weeks
  • Available
Tuesday 15 April 20256pm – 8pm4 consecutive weeks
  • Available
Tuesday 20 May 20256pm – 8pm4 consecutive weeks
  • Available
Tuesday 24 June 20256pm – 8pm4 consecutive weeks
  • Available
Tuesday 29 July 20256pm – 8pm4 consecutive weeks
  • Available
Tuesday 2 September 20256pm – 8pm4 consecutive weeks
  • Available
Tuesday 7 October 20256pm – 8pm4 consecutive weeks
  • Available
Tuesday 11 November 20256pm – 8pm4 consecutive weeks
  • Available

How to book

Call the Inverell Hospital Parenting Education Service on (02) 6721 9532 to book.

John Hunter Hospital

Birth and parenting program — face to face

Cost: $160 (Centrelink concession/Healthcare card holders and health fund rebates available).

Program duration: 12 hours over 2, 4, 5 or 6 sessions.

Date classes startLocation

 

Class time

No. of classesStatus
Saturday 14 December and Saturday 21 December 2024Newcastle Community Health Centre9.30am - 3.30pmHeld over 2 consecutive Saturdays 
  • Full
Saturday 21 December and Sunday 22 December 2024John Hunter Hospital9.30am - 3.30pmHeld over 2 consecutive days 
  • Full
Monday 6 January 2025Newcastle Community Health Centre6.30pm - 8.30pmHeld over 6 consecutive Mondays 
  • Available
Thursday 9 January 2025Newcastle Community Health Centre5.30pm - 8.30pmHeld over 4 consecutive Thursdays 
  • Full
Saturday 11 January and Saturday 18 January 2025Newcastle Community Health Centre9.30am - 3.30pmHeld over 2 consecutive Saturdays 
  • Full
Saturday 11 January and Sunday 12 January 2025John Hunter Hospital9.30am - 3.30pmHeld over 2 consecutive days
  • Full
Saturday 18 January and Sunday 19 January 2025Belmont Hospital9.30am - 3.30pmHeld over 2 consecutive days 
  • Full
Saturday 25 January and Saturday 1 February 2025Newcastle Community Health Centre9.30am - 3.30pmHeld over 2 consecutive Saturdays 
  • Available
Saturday 1 February and Sunday 2 February 2025John Hunter Hospital9.30am - 3.30pmHeld over 2 consecutive days 
  • Available
Saturday 8 February and Saturday 15 February 2025Newcastle Community Health Centre9.30am - 3.30pmHeld over 2 consecutive Saturdays 
  • Available
Monday 10 February 2025Newcastle Community Health Centre6.30pm-8.30pmHeld over 6 consecutive Mondays 
  • Available
Wednesday 12 February 2025Belmont Hospital6.30pm-8.30pmHeld over 6
Consecutive Wednesdays
  • Available
Saturday 15 February and Sunday 16 February 2025Belmont Hospital9:30pm-3:30pmHeld over 2 consecutive days
  • Available
Saturday 22 February and Saturday 1 March 2025Newcastle Community Health Centre9:30pm-3:30pmHeld over 2 consecutive days
  • Available
Saturday 1 March and Sunday 2 March 2025John Hunter Hospital9.30am - 3.30pmHeld over 2 consecutive days
  • Available
Saturday 8 March and Saturday 15 March 2025Newcastle Community Health Centre9.30am - 3.30pmHeld over 2 consecutive Saturdays
  • Available
Monday 10 March 2024Newcastle Community Health Centre6.30pm-8.30pmHeld over 6 consecutive Mondays
  • Available
Saturday 22 March and Sunday 23 March 2025Belmont Hospital9.30am - 3.30pmHeld over 2 consecutive days
  • Available
Saturday 22 March and Saturday 29 March 2025Newcastle Community Health Centre9.30am - 3.30pmHeld over 2 consecutive Saturdays
  • Available

How to book

Complete the online booking form (PDF 266.55KB) and email it to HNELHD-JHHParentingEducation@health.nsw.gov.au or call the John Hunter Hospital parenting education team on (02) 4016 4595.

Breastfeeding — face to face

Cost: Free

Program duration: 2.5 hour one-off class. An additional 30 minute diabetic breastfeeding class is also available.

Date classes startLocationClass timeStatus
Friday 20 December 2024Newcastle Community Health Centre10am – 12.30pm
Diabetic breastfeeding: 12.30pm – 1pm
  • Full
Thursday 9 January 2025Newcastle Community Health Centre6pm – 8.30pm
  • Full
Thursday 16 January 2025Newcastle Community Health Centre6pm – 8.30pm
  • Available
Friday 17 January 2025Newcastle Community Health Centre10am – 12.30pm
Diabetic breastfeeding: 12.30pm – 1pm
  • Available
Thursday 23 January 2025Newcastle Community Health Centre6pm – 8.30pm
  • Available
Thursday 6 February 2025Newcastle Community Health Centre6pm – 8.30pm
  • Full
Thursday 13 February 2025Newcastle Community Health Centre6pm – 8.30pm
  • Available
Friday 21 February 2025Newcastle Community Health Centre10am – 12.30pm
Diabetic breastfeeding: 12.30pm – 1pm
  • Available
Thursday 27 February 2025Newcastle Community Health Centre6pm – 8.30pm
  • Available
Thursday 6 March 2025Newcastle Community Health Centre6pm – 8.30pm
  • Available
Thursday 20 March 2025Newcastle Community Health Centre6pm – 8.30pm
  • Available 
Thursday 27 March 2025Newcastle Community Health Centre6pm – 8.30pm
  • Available
Friday 28 March 2025Newcastle Community Health Centre10am – 12.30pm
Diabetic breastfeeding: 12.30pm – 1pm
  • Available

How to book

Complete the online booking form and email it to HNELHD-JHHParentingEducation@health.nsw.gov.au or call the John Hunter Hospital parenting education team on (02) 4016 4595.

Pregnancy Wise - face to face

Cost: $25 (Centrelink concession/Healthcare card holders and health fund rebates available). 

Program duration: 2-hour one-off session.

Location:  Newcastle Community Health Centre

DateClass timeStatus
Saturday 14 December 202410am - 12pm
  • Full
Monday 16 December 20246.30pm - 8.30pm
  • Available
Saturday 11 January 202510am - 12pm
  • Available
Saturday 11 January 20251pm - 3pm
  • Available
Monday 20 January 20256.30pm - 8.30pm
  • Available
Saturday 8 February 202510am - 12pm
  • Available
Saturday 8 February 20251pm - 3pm
  • Available
Monday 17 February 20256.30pm - 8.30pm
  • Available
Saturday 8 March 202510am - 12pm
  • Available
Saturday 8 March 20251pm - 3pm
  • Available
Monday 24 March 20256.30pm - 8.30pm
  • Available

How to book

Call the John Hunter Hospital parenting education team on (02) 4016 4595.

Calmbirth® — face to face

Cost: $550 (health fund rebates available). From 1 April 2025, class fee will increase to $595 (health fund rebates available). Payment is required on confirmation of your booking. 

Program duration: 12 hours over 2 or 4 sessions.

DateLocationClass timeNo. of classesStatus
Saturday 14 December and Sunday 15 December 2024John Hunter Hospital9.30am - 3.30pm2 classes held over 1 weekend
  • Available
Tuesday 7 January 2025Newcastle Community Health Centre5.30pm - 8.30pm4 weekly Tuesday classes
  • Full
Tuesday 4 February 2025Newcastle Community Health Centre5.30pm - 8.30pm4 weekly Tuesday classes
  • Available
Tuesday 4 March 2025Newcastle Community Health Centre5.30pm - 8.30pm4 weekly Tuesday classes
  • Available
Tuesday 1 April 2025Newcastle Community Health Centre5.30pm - 8.30pmHeld over 4 consecutive
Tuesdays
  • Available

How to book

Complete the online booking form and email it to HNELHD-JHHParentingEducation@health.nsw.gov.au or call the John Hunter Hospital parenting education team on (02) 4016 4595.

Nuts and bolts of fatherhood — face to face

Cost: $25 (Centrelink concession/Healthcare card holders and health fund rebates available)

Program duration: 2.5-hour one-off session.

Location: Newcastle Community Health Centre

DateClass timeStatus
Thursday 9 January 20256.00pm - 8.30pm
  • Available
Thursday 20 February 20246.00pm - 8.30pm
  • Available
Thursday 20 March 20256.00pm - 8.30pm
  • Available

How to book

Complete the online booking form and email it to HNELHD-JHHParentingEducation@health.nsw.gov.au or call the John Hunter Hospital parenting education team on (02) 4016 4595.

Young parents birth and parenting program — face to face

Cost: Free

Program duration: 4 hours over 2 sessions.

Location: John Hunter Hospital

DateClass timeNo. of classesStatus
Monday 17 February 20251pm - 3pm2 weekly Monday classes
  • Available
Monday 7 April 20251pm - 3pm2 weekly Monday classes
  • Available
Monday 16 June 20251pm - 3pm2 weekly Monday classes
  • Available
Monday 11 August 20251pm - 3pm2 weekly Monday classes
  • Available
Monday 13 October 20251pm - 3pm2 weekly Monday classes
  • Available
Monday 8 December 20251pm - 3pm2 weekly Monday classes
  • Available

How to book

Call the John Hunter Hospital family care office on (02) 4921 4614 or text 0439 402 794.

Planned caesarean section: birth — face to face

Cost: $25 (Centrelink concession/Healthcare card holders and health fund rebates available)

Program duration: 2.5-hour one-off session.

Location:  Newcastle Community Health Centre

DateClass timeStatus
Saturday 18 January 20259.30am -12pm
  • Available
Saturday 1 March 20259.30am -12pm
  • Available

Planned caesarean section: parenting and baby care — face to face

Cost: $40 (Centrelink concession/Healthcare card holders and health fund rebates available)

Program duration: 3-hour one-off session

Location:Newcastle Community Health Centre

DateClass timeStatus
Saturday 18 January 202512.30pm - 3.30pm
  • Available
Saturday 1 March 202512.30pm - 3.30pm
  • Available

How to book

Complete the online booking form and email it to HNELHD-JHHParentingEducation@health.nsw.gov.au or call the John Hunter Hospital parenting education team on (02) 4016 4595.

Narrabri Hospital

The Narrabri maternity service offers birth and parenting programs to support you and your partner with your physical, mental and emotional preparation for your pregnancy, birth, early parenting and feeding your baby.

Cost: $20.

How to book

To find out course availability and to book, contact the Narrabri Hospital maternity unit on (02) 6799 2085 Monday to Friday from 9am to 4pm.

Maitland Hospital

Birth and parenting program — face to face

Cost: $140 (Centrelink concession/Healthcare card holders and health fund rebates available)

Program duration: 12 hours held over 2 or 6 sessions.

Date classes startClass timesNo. of classesStatus
Saturday 14 December and Saturday 21 December 20249am - 3pm2 weekly Saturday classes
  • Full
Tuesday 7 January 20256.30pm - 8.30pm6 weekly Tuesday classes
  • Available
Wednesday 8 January 20256.30pm - 8.30pm6 weekly Wednesday classes
  • Available
Saturday 18 January and Sunday 19 January 20259am - 3pm2 classes held over 1 weekend
  • Available
Saturday 1 February and Sunday 2 February 20259am - 3pm2 classes held over 1 weekend
  • Available
Saturday 15 February and Sunday 16 February 20259am - 3pm2 classes held over 1 weekend
  •  Available
Tuesday 18 February 20256.30pm - 8.30pm6 weekly Tuesday classes
  • Available
Wednesday 19 February 20256.30pm to 8.30pm6 weekly Wednesday classes
  • Available
Saturday 1 March and Sunday 2 March 20259am - 3pm2 classes held over 1 weekend
  • Available
Saturday 15 March and Sunday 16 March 20259am - 3pm2 classes held over 1 weekend
  • Available
Saturday 22 March and Sunday 23 March 20259am - 3pm2 classes held over 1 weekend
  • Available
Tuesday 1 April 20256.30pm - 8.30pm6 weekly Tuesday classes
  • Available
Wednesday 2 April 20256.30pm - 8.30pm6 weekly Wednesday classes
  • Available
Saturday 5 April and Sunday 6 April 20259am - 3pm2 classes held over 1 weekend
  • Available
Saturday 12 April and Sunday 13 April 20259am - 3pm2 classes held over 1 weekend
  • Available
Saturday 3 and Sunday 4 May 20259am - 3pm2 classes held over 1 weekend
  • Available
Tuesday 13 May 20256.30pm - 8.30pm6 weekly Tuesday classes
  • Available
Wednesday 14 May 20256.30pm - 8.30pm6 weekly Wednesday classes
  • Available
Saturday 17 and Sunday 18 May 20259am - 3pm2 classes held over 1 weekend
  • Available
Saturday 31 and Sunday 1 June 20259am - 3pm2 classes held over 1 weekend
  • Available
Saturday 14 and Sunday 15 June 20259am - 3pm2 classes held over 1 weekend
  • Available
Tuesday 24 June 20256.30pm - 8.30pm6 weekly Wednesday classes
  • Available
Wednesday 25 June 20256.30pm - 8.30pm6 weekly Wednesday classes
  • Available
Saturday 28 and Sunday 29 June 20259am - 3pm2 classes held over 1 weekend
  • Available
Saturday 12 and Sunday 13 July 20259am - 3pm2 classes held over 1 weekend
  • Available
Saturday 26 and Sunday 27 July 20259am - 3pm2 classes held over 1 weekend
  • Available
Tuesday 5 August 20256.30pm - 8.30pm6 weekly Tuesday classes
  • Available
Wednesday 6 August 20256.30pm - 8.30pm6 weekly Wednesday classes
  • Available
Saturday 9 and Sunday 10 August 20259am - 3pm2 classes held over 1 weekend
  • Available
Saturday 23 and Sunday 24 August 20259am - 3pm2 classes held over 1 weekend
  • Available
Saturday 13 and Sunday 14 September 20259am - 3pm2 classes held over 1 weekend
  • Available
Tuesday 16 September 20256.30pm - 8.30pm6 weekly Tuesday classes
  • Available
Wednesday 17 September 20256.30pm- 8.30pm6 weekly Wednesday classes
  • Available
Saturday 27 and Sunday 28 September 20259am - 3pm2 classes held over 1 weekend
  • Available
Saturday 11 and Sunday 12 October 20259am - 3pm2 classes held over 1 weekend
  • Available
Saturday 25 and Sunday 26 October 20259am - 3pm2 classes held over 1 weekend
  • Available
Tuesday 28 October 20256.30pm - 8.30pm6 weekly Tuesday classes
  • Available
Wednesday 29 October 20256.30pm - 8.30pm6 weekly Wednesday classes
  • Available
Saturday 8 and Sunday 9 November 20259am - 3pm2 classes held over 1 weekend
  • Available
Saturday 22 and Sunday 23 November 20259am - 3pm2 classes held over 1 weekend
  • Available
Saturday 6 and Sunday 7 December 20259am - 3pm2 classes held over 1 weekend
  • Available
Saturday 13 and Sunday 14 December 20259am - 3pm2 classes held over 1 weekend
  • Available

How to book

Call the Maitland Hospital antenatal clinic on (02) 4087 1100 Monday to Friday from 9am to 4pm or email HNELHD-MaitlandParentEd@health.nsw.gov.au to book.

Breastfeeding — face to face

Cost: Free

Program duration:  2.5-hour one-off class held on either a Thursday evening or Friday morning.

DateClass timeStatus
Thursday 19 December 20246.00pm - 8.30pm
  • Available
Thursday 9 January 20256.00pm - 8.30pm
  • Available
Thursday 23 January 202510.30am - 12.30pm
  • Available
Thursday 13 February 20256.00pm - 8.30pm
  • Available
Thursday 27 February 202510.30am - 12.30pm
  • Available
Thursday 13 March 20256.00pm - 8.30pm
  • Available
Thursday 27 March 202510.30am - 12.30pm
  • Available
Thursday 10 April 20256.00pm - 8.30pm
  • Available
Thursday 24 April 202510.30am - 12.30pm
  • Available
Thursday 8 May 20256.00pm - 8.30pm
  • Available
Thursday 22 May 202510.30am - 12.30pm
  • Available
Thursday 5 June 20256.00pm - 8.30pm
  • Available
Thursday 19 June 202510.30am - 12.30pm
  • Available
Thursday 10 July 20256.00pm - 8.30pm
  • Available
Thursday 31 July 202510.30am - 12.30pm
  • Available
Thursday 14 August 20256.00pm - 8.30pm
  • Available
Thursday 28 August 202510.30am - 12.30pm
  • Available
Thursday 11 September 20256.00pm - 8.30pm
  • Available
Thursday 25 September 202510.30am - 12.30pm
  • Available
Thursday 9 October 20256.00pm - 8.30pm
  • Available
Thursday 23 October 202510.30am - 12.30pm
  • Available
Thursday 6 November 20256.00pm - 8.30pm
  • Available
Thursday 20 November 202510.30am - 12.30pm
  • Available
Thursday 4 December 20256.00pm - 8.30pm
  • Available
Thursday 18 December 202510.30am - 12.30pm
  • Available

How to book

Call the Maitland Hospital antenatal clinic on (02) 4087 1100 Monday to Friday from 9am to 4pm or email HNELHD-MaitlandParentEd@health.nsw.gov.au to book.

Next birth after caesarean — face to face

Cost: Free

Program duration:  2-hour one-off session held on a Tuesday afternoon.

DateClass timesStatus
Tuesday 28 January 20253pm - 5pm
  • Available
Tuesday 25 March 20253pm - 5pm
  • Available
Tuesday 27 May 20253pm - 5pm
  • Available
Tuesday 22 July 20253pm - 5pm
  • Available
Tuesday 23 September 20253pm - 5pm
  • Available
Tuesday 25 November 20253pm - 5pm
  • Available

How to book

Call the Maitland Hospital antenatal clinic on (02) 4087 1100 Monday to Friday from 9am to 4pm or email HNELHD-MaitlandParentEd@health.nsw.gov.au to book.

Young parents birth and parenting program — face to face

Cost: Free

Program duration: 4 hours held over 2 sessions.

DateClass timeNo. of classesStatus
Tuesday 11 February and Tuesday 18 February 20253pm - 5pm2 weekly Tuesday classes
  • Available
Tuesday 11 March and Tuesday 18 March 20253pm - 5pm2 weekly Tuesday classes
  • Available
Tuesday 8 April and Tuesday 15 April 20253pm - 5pm2 weekly Tuesday classes
  • Available
Tuesday 6 May and Tuesday 13 May 20253pm - 5pm2 weekly Tuesday classes
  • Available
Tuesday 3 June and Tuesday 10 June 20253pm - 5pm2 weekly Tuesday classes
  • Available
Tuesday 1 July and Tuesday 8 July 20253pm - 5pm2 weekly Tuesday classes
  • Available
Tuesday 5 August and Tuesday 12 August 20253pm - 5pm2 weekly Tuesday classes
  • Available
Tuesday 2 September and Tuesday 9 September 20253pm - 5pm2 weekly Tuesday classes
  • Available
Tuesday 14 October and 21 October 20253pm - 5pm2 weekly Tuesday classes
  • Available
Tuesday 11 November and 18 November 20253pm - 5pm2 weekly Tuesday classes
  • Available
Tuesday 9 December and 16 December 20253pm - 5pm2 weekly Tuesday classes
  • Available

How to book

Call the Maitland Hospital antenatal clinic on (02) 4087 1100 Monday to Friday from 9am to 4pm or email HNELHD-MaitlandParentEd@health.nsw.gov.au to book. Face to face courses available.

Manning Hospital

Birth and parenting program — face to face

Cost: $80 (Centrelink concession/Healthcare card holders and health fund rebates available).

Program duration: 8 hours over 4 sessions.

Date classes startClass timeNo. of classesStatus
Tuesday 4 February 20256pm - 8pm4 weekly Tuesday classes
  • Available
Tuesday 4 March 20256pm - 8pm4 weekly Tuesday classes
  • Available
Tuesday 1 April 20256pm - 8pm4 weekly Tuesday classes
  • Available
Tuesday 29 April 20256pm - 8pm4 weekly Tuesday classes
  • Available
Tuesday 27 May 20256pm - 8pm4 weekly Tuesday classes
  • Available
Tuesday 24 June 20256pm - 8pm4 weekly Tuesday classes
  • Available
Tuesday 22 July 20256pm - 8pm4 weekly Tuesday classes
  • Available
Tuesday 9 August 20256pm - 8pm4 weekly Tuesday classes
  • Available
Tuesday 16 September 20256pm - 8pm4 weekly Tuesday classes
  • Available
Tuesday 14 October 20256pm - 8pm4 weekly Tuesday classes
  • Available
Tuesday 11 November 20256pm - 8pm4 weekly Tuesday classes
  • Available

How to book

Call the Manning Hospital antenatal clinic on (02) 6592 9491 Monday to Friday from 9am to 4pm to book.

Moree Hospital

The Moree maternity service offers birth and parenting and breastfeeding programs at Moree Hospital, free of charge.

To find out course availability, contact the Moree Hospital maternity unit on (02) 6757 0051 Monday to Friday from 9am to 4pm.

Muswellbrook Hospital

Birth and parenting program — face to face

Program duration: 12 hours over 2 sessions.

Cost: Free

DateClass timeNo. of classesStatus
Saturday 22 February and Sunday 23 February 20259.30am - 3.30pm2 classes held over 1 weekend
  • Available
Saturday 26 April and Sunday 27 April 20259.30am - 3.30pm2 classes held over 1 weekend
  • Available

How to book

Call the Muswellbrook Hospital maternity unit on (02) 6542 2023 from Monday to Friday from 7am to 3.30pm to book.

Scone Hospital

Birth and parenting program — face to face

Cost: $50 (Centrelink concession/Healthcare card holders and health fund rebates available).

Program duration: 8.5 hours.

DateClass timeNo. of classesStatus
Saturday 1 February 20258.30am - 5pm1 weekly Saturday class
  • Available
Saturday 26 April 20258.30am - 5pm1 weekly Saturday class
  • Available
Saturday 5 June 20258.30am - 5pm1 weekly Saturday class
  • Available
Saturday 9 August 20258.30am - 5pm1 weekly Saturday class
  • Available
Saturday 11 October 20258.30am - 5pm1 weekly Saturday class
  • Available
Saturday 13 December 20258.30am - 5pm1 weekly Saturday class
  • Available
Singleton Hospital

Birth and parenting program — face to face

Cost: $50 (Centrelink concession/Healthcare card holders and health fund rebates available).

Program duration: 12 hours over 2 sessions.

DateClass timesDurationStatus
Classes complete for 2024. Check back for 2025 schedule.TBCTBCTBC

How to book

Contact the Singleton Hospital maternity unit on 0436 454 515 Monday to Friday from 9am to 4pm.

Tamworth Hospital

Birth and parenting program — face to face

Cost: $80 (Centrelink concession/Healthcare card holders and health fund rebates available).

Program duration: 12 hours over 2 or 6 sessions.

Date classes Class timesNo. of classesStatus
Saturday 4 January 20259.30am - 3.30pm2 weekly Saturday classes
  • Available
Tuesday 7 January 20256.30am - 8.30pm6 weekly Tuesday classes
  • Available
Wednesday 22 January 20256.30am - 8.30pm6 weekly Wednesday classes
  • Available
Saturday 1 February 20259.30am - 3.30pm2 weekly Saturday classes
  • Available
Saturday 1 and Sunday 2 February 20259.30am - 3.30pmWhole weekend
  • Available
Thursday 20 February 20256.30am - 8.30pm6 weekly Thursday classes
  • Available
Saturday 1 March 20259.30am - 3.30pm2 weekly Saturday classes
  • Available
Tuesday 1 April 20256.30am - 8.30pm6 weekly Tuesday classes
  • Available
Saturday 12 and Sunday 13 April 20259.30am - 3.30pmWhole weekend
  • Available
Wednesday 16 April 20256.30am - 8.30pm6 weekly Wednesday classes
  • Available
Saturday 3 May 20259.30am - 3.30pm2 weekly Saturday classes
  • Available
Thursday 15 May 20256.30am - 8.30pm6 weekly Thursday classes
  • Available
Saturday 14 June 20259.30am - 3.30pm2 weekly Saturday classes
  • Available
Tuesday 24 June 20256.30am - 8.30pm6 weekly Tuesday classes
  • Available
Wednesday 9 July 20256.30am - 8.30pm6 weekly Wednesday classes
  • Available
Saturday 5 July 20259.30am - 3.30pm2 weekly Saturday classes
  • Available
Saturday 2 August 20259.30am - 3.30pm2 weekly Saturday classes
  • Available
Thursday 7 August 20256.30am - 8.30pm6 weekly Thursday classes
  • Available
Saturday 6 September 20259.30am - 3.30pm2 weekly Saturday classes
  • Available
Tuesday 16 September 20256.30am - 8.30pm6 weekly Tuesday classes
  • Available
Wednesday 2 October 20256.30am - 8.30pm6 weekly Wednesday classes
  • Available
Saturday 11 October 20259.30am - 3.30pm2 weekly Saturday classes
  • Available
Thursday 30 October 20256.30am - 8.30pm6 weekly Thursday classes
  • Available
Saturday 1 November 20259.30am - 3.30pm2 weekly Saturday classes
  • Available
Saturday 6 December 20259.30am - 3.30pm2 weekly Saturday classes
  • Available

How to book

Call the Tamworth Hospital maternity unit on 0448 355 275 from Monday to Friday from 8am to 4pm to book.

Online live program availability

View our online live parenting class availability, complete our online booking form and email it to HNELHD-JHHParentingEducation@health.nsw.gov.au

Our online programs are available to any expecting parent in the Hunter New England LHD.

Upcoming online live classes

Birth and parenting program — online class

Cost: $100 (Centrelink concession/Healthcare card holders and health fund rebates available).

Program duration: 8 -10 hours over 2 or 5 sessions.

Date classes beginClass timeNo. of classesStatus
Tuesday 14 January 20256.30pm - 8.30pmHeld over 5 consecutive Tuesdays
  • Available
Saturday 1 February and 8 Saturday February 20259.30am - 1.30pmHeld over 2 consecutive Saturdays
  • Available
Saturday 15 March 20259.30am - 1.30pmHeld over 2 consecutive Saturdays
  • Available
Tuesday 18 March 20256.30pm - 8.30pmHeld over 5 consecutive Tuesdays
  • Available

Breastfeeding — online class

Cost: Free

Program duration: 2.5-hour one-off session.

DateClass timeStatus
Wednesday 18 December 20241pm - 3.30pm
  • Available
Thursday 19 December 20246pm - 8.30pm
  • Full
Thursday 30 January 20256pm - 8.30pm
  • Full
Thursday 13 March 20256pm - 8.30pm
  • Available

Nuts and bolts of fatherhood — online class

Cost: $25  (Centrelink concession/Healthcare card holders and health fund rebates available).

Program duration: 2.5-hour one-off session.

DateClass timeStatus
Thursday 23 January 20256pm - 8.30pm
  • Available
Thursday 6 March 20256pm-8:30pm
  • Available

Multiple miracles — online class

Cost: Free

Program duration: 1.5 hour one-off session.

DateClass timeStatus
Thursday 19 December 20246.30pm - 8pm
  • Available
Thursday 13 February 20256.30pm - 8pm
  • Available
Thursday 27 March 20256.30pm - 8pm
  • Available

Next birth after caesarean — online class

Cost: Free

Program duration: 1.5 hour one-off session.

DateClass timeStatus
Thursday 19 December 202410am - 11.30am
  • Available
Monday 13 January 20256.30pm - 8pm
  • Available
Thursday 6 February 202510am - 11.30am
  • Available
Monday 3 March 20256.30pm - 8pm
  • Available

Get pregnancy resources and support

Our hospitals offer a range of support services and programs to keep you and baby healthy during pregnancy and beyond. Learn more about our antenatal, birth and postnatal programs and access resources.

Pregnancy, birth and baby in Hunter New England

Contact us

Need help or more information? Contact your maternity care provider or your nearest maternity hospital for more information.

Related information

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