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.

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.

How to book

The Parenting Education office will be closed from 4pm Tuesday 23/12/2025 & will re-open 9am Tuesday 06/01/2026.

Your emails, bookings and voicemails will be responded to from 06/01/2025

View our face to face program availability and online live program availability for each hospital and contact your local maternity service to book in. For John Hunter Hospital bookings, download, complete, and save our online booking form (PDF 254.22KB) and email it back to us on HNELHD-JHHParentingEducation@health.nsw.gov.au. Alternatively, you can call the John Hunter Hospital Parenting Education team on (02) 4016 4595.

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. 

If you cannot find a program that meets your needs or there is no availability, please complete a booking form and email us your preferred dates for programs. We will do our best to accommodate your request.
 

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.

Cost

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

Please make payment prior to program commencement date via one of the following options:

  • Online: NSW Health Payment Platform

  • Direct Debit:

    BSB - 012-699

    Account - 264711000

    Reference – Participant name

  • Phone: John Hunter Hospital Cashiers Office – (02) 4921 3585

    QR code

How to join a class

Read about each program below, then scroll down to view the upcoming availability and book your spot. 

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

Online live stream

  •  

Face to Face

  •  

 

Attendance options online:

  • 1 weekly 2-hour session for 5 weeks
  • 2 x 4-hour sessions over 2 Saturdays.

Attendance options face to face (12 hours total):

  • 1 weekly 2-hour session over 6 weeks
  • 1 weekly 3-hour session over 4 weeks
  • 2 weekly 6-hour sessions over two consecutive Saturdays,
  • 1 full weekend 6 hours Saturday and 6 hours Sunday
$100 for live stream$160
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.

$595 (health fund rebates available) Payment is required on confirmation of your booking.  
Focus on Fathers
Program nameTopicsWhen to attendDelivery mode and costDuration
Focus on Fathers

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
$40 (or $20 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
TBCTBCTBCTBC

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: $50 Payment is made to Gunnedah Hospital Cashier.

Over the phone payment, phone (02) 6741 8000 or face to face by card to Gunnedah Hospital cashier.

Unfortunately we cannot accept cash payments.

Program duration: 12 hours over 2 sessions.

DateClass TimesNo. of classesStatus
TBCTBCTBCTBC

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 3 February 20266pm – 8pm4 consecutive weeks
  • Available
Tuesday 10 March 20266pm – 8pm4 consecutive weeks
  • Available
Tuesday 14 April 20266pm – 8pm4 consecutive weeks
  • Available
Tuesday 19 May 20266pm – 8pm4 consecutive weeks
  • Available
Tuesday 23 June 20266pm – 8pm4 consecutive weeks
  • Available
Tuesday 28 July 20266pm – 8pm4 consecutive weeks
  • Available
Tuesday 1 September 20266pm – 8pm4 consecutive weeks
  • Available
Tuesday 13 October 20266pm – 8pm4 consecutive weeks
  • Available
Tuesday 17 November6pm – 8pm4 consecutive weeks
  • Available

How to book

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

John Hunter Hospital

The Parenting Education office will be closed from 4pm Tuesday 23/12/2025 & will re-open 9am Tuesday 06/01/2026.

Your emails, bookings and voicemails will be responded to from 06/01/2025

We offer a range of parenting programs delivered face to face at the John Hunter Hospital, including: 

  • Birth and parenting program
  • Breastfeeding
  • Pregnancy Wise
  • Calmbirth
  • Focus on Fathers
  • Young parents birth and parenting program
  • Planned caesarean section: birth
  • Planned caesarean section: parenting and baby care 

Keep scrolling to view upcoming availabilities and to book your spot.

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.

How to book

Download, complete and save the online booking form (PDF 254.22KB) and email it to HNELHD-JHHParentingEducation@health.nsw.gov.au or call the John Hunter Hospital parenting education team on (02) 4016 4595.

Date classes startLocation

 

Class time

No. of classesStatus
Thursday 8 January 2026 Newcastle Community Health Centre5.30pm to 8.30pm Held over 4 consecutive Thursdays
  • Available
Saturday 10 January 2026Newcastle Community Health Centre9.30am to 3:30pmHeld over 2 consecutive Saturdays 
  • Available 
Saturday 10 January and Sunday 11 January 2026John Hunter Hospital9.30am to 3.30pm Held over 2 consecutive days
  • Full
Saturday 17 January and Sunday 18 January 2026 Belmont Hospital9.30am to 3.30pm Held over 2 consecutive days 
  • Full 
Tuesday 20 January 2026 Newcastle Community Health Centre5.30pm to 8.30pm Held over 4 consecutive Tuesdays 
  • Available 
Saturday 24 January 2026 Newcastle Community Health Centre9.30am to 3.30pmHeld over 2 consecutive Saturdays
  • Available 
Saturday 31 January and Sunday 1 February 2026 John Hunter Hospital9.30am to 3.30pm Held over 2 consecutive days 
  • Available 
Saturday 7 February and Sunday 8 February 2026 John Hunter Hospital9:30am to 3:30pmHeld over 2 consecutive days
  • Available
Saturday 14 February 2026Newcastle Community Health Centre9:30am to 3:30pmHeld over 2 consecutive Saturdays
  • Available
Thursday 19 February 2026Newcastle Community Health Centre5.30pm to 8.30pmHeld over 4 consecutive Thursdays
  • Available
Saturday 21 February and Sunday 22 February 2026Belmont Hospital9:30am to 3:30pmHeld over 2 consecutive days
  • Available
Saturday 28 February 2026Newcastle Community Health Centre9:30am to 3:30pmHeld over 2 consecutive Saturdays
  • Available
Wednesday 4 March 2026Belmont Hospital5:30pm-8:30pmHeld over 4 consecutive Wednesdays
  • Available
Saturday 7 March and Sunday 8 March 2026John Hunter Hospital9:30am – 3:30pmHeld over 2 consecutive days
  • Available
Saturday 14 March 2026Newcastle Community Health Centre9:30am – 3:30pmHeld over 2 consecutive Saturdays
  • Available
Saturday 21 March and Sunday 22 March 2026Belmont Hospital9:30am – 3:30pmHeld over 2 consecutive days
  • Available
Tuesday 24 March 2026Newcastle Community Health Centre5:30pm-8:30pmHeld over 4 consecutive Tuesdays
  • Available
Saturday 28 March 2026 and Saturday 11 April 2026Newcastle Community Health Centre9:30am – 3:30pmHeld over 2 Saturdays
  • Available

Breastfeeding — face to face

Cost: Free

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

How to book

Complete the online booking form (PDF 254.22KB) and email it to HNELHD-JHHParentingEducation@health.nsw.gov.au or call the John Hunter Hospital parenting education team on (02) 4016 4595.

Date classes startLocationClass timeStatus
Thursday 8 January 2026Newcastle Community Health Centre6pm - 8:30pm 
  • Full
Thursday 15 January 2026 Newcastle Community Health Centre6pm - 8.30pm 
  • Available 
Friday 23 January 2026 Newcastle Community Health Centre

10am - 12.30pm 

Diabetic breastfeeding: 12.30pm - 1pm 

  • Available 
Thursday 29 January 2026Newcastle Community Health Centre6pm - 8.30pm 
  • Available 
Thursday 5 February 2026Newcastle Community Health Centre6pm - 8.30pm 
  • Available 
Thursday 12 February 2026Newcastle Community Health Centre6pm - 8.30pm 
  • Available 
Friday 20 February 2026Newcastle Community Health Centre10:00am – 12:30pm
Diabetic breastfeeding: 12:30pm-1pm
  • Available 
Thursday 26 February 2026Newcastle Community Health Centre6pm - 8.30pm 
  • Available 
Thursday 5 March 2026Newcastle Community Health Centre6:00pm – 8:30pm
  • Available 
Thursday 12 March 2026Newcastle Community Health Centre6:00pm – 8:30pm
  • Available 
Friday 20 March 2026Newcastle Community Health Centre

10am-12:30pm

Diabetic Breastfeeding: 12:30pm-1pm

  • Available 
Thursday 26 March 2026Newcastle Community Health Centre6:00pm – 8:30pm
  • Available 

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

How to book

Complete the online booking form (PDF 254.22KB) and email it to HNELHD-JHHParentingEducation@health.nsw.gov.au or call the John Hunter Hospital parenting education team on (02) 4016 4595.

DateClass timeStatus
Saturday 10 January 2026 10am - 12pm 
  • Available 
Tuesday 20 January 20266.30pm - 8.30pm 
  • Available 
Saturday 7 February 202610am - 12pm
  • Available
Tuesday 17 February 20266.30pm - 8.30pm
  • Available 
Saturday 7 March 202610am – 12pm
  • Available 
Tuesday 17 March 20266.30pm - 8.30pm
  • Available 

Calmbirth® — face to face

Cost: $595 (health fund rebates available) Payment is required on confirmation of your booking. 

Program duration: 12 hours over 2 or 4 sessions.

How to book

Complete the online booking form (PDF 254.22KB) and email it to HNELHD-JHHParentingEducation@health.nsw.gov.au or call the John Hunter Hospital parenting education team on (02) 4016 4595.

DateLocationClass timeNo. of classesStatus
Tuesday 13 January 2026 Newcastle Community Health Centre5.30pm - 8.30pm Held over 4 consecutive Tuesdays
  • Available 
Tuesday 10 February 2026Newcastle Community Health Centre5.30pm - 8.30pmHeld over 4 consecutive Tuesdays
  • Available 
Tuesday 10 March 2026Newcastle Community Health Centre5.30pm - 8.30pmHeld over 4 consecutive Tuesdays
  • Available 

Focus on Fathers — 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

How to book

Complete the online booking form (PDF 254.22KB) and email it to HNELHD-JHHParentingEducation@health.nsw.gov.au or call the John Hunter Hospital parenting education team on (02) 4016 4595.

DateClass timeStatus
Thursday 5 February 20266pm - 8.30pm
  • Available 
Thursday 19 February 20266pm - 8.30pm
  • Available 
Thursday 19 March 20266pm - 8.30pm
  • Available 

Young parents birth and parenting program — face to face

Cost: Free

Program duration: 4 hours over 2 sessions.

Location: John Hunter Hospital

How to book

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

DateClass timeNo. of classesStatus
Monday 9 and 16 February 20261pm-3pm2 weekly Monday classes
  • Available
Monday 13 and 20 April 20261pm - 3pm2 weekly Monday classes
  • Available
Monday 15 and 22 June 2026 1pm -3pm2 weekly Monday classes
  • Available
Monday 17 June and 24 August 20261pm - 3pm2 weekly Monday classes
  • Available
Monday 12 and 19 October 20261pm - 3pm2 weekly Monday classes
  • Available
Monday 7 and 14 December 20261pm - 3pm 2 weekly Monday classes
  • Available

Planned caesarean section: birth — face to face

Cost: $40 (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 17 January 2026 9.30am - 12pm 
  • Available 
Saturday 14 March 20269.30am - 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

How to book

Complete the online booking form (PDF 254.22KB) and email it to HNELHD-JHHParentingEducation@health.nsw.gov.au or call the John Hunter Hospital parenting education team on (02) 4016 4595.

DateClass timeStatus
Saturday 17 January 2026 12.30pm - 3.30pm
  • Available 
Saturday 14 March 202612.30pm - 3.30pm
  • Available 

Online classes

Our Multiple Miracles and Next birth after caesarean (NBAC) classes are available online only. 

See online classes

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.

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.

Date classes startClass timesNo. of classesStatus
Tuesday 13 January 20266.30pm - 8.30pmHeld over 6 consecutive Tuesdays
  • Available
Wednesday 14 January 20266.30pm - 8.30pmHeld over 6 consecutive Wednesdays
  • Available
Saturday 17 January and Sunday 18 January 20269am - 3pmHeld over 2 consecutive days
  • Available
Saturday 31 January and Sunday 1 February 20269am - 3pmHeld over 2 consecutive days
  • Available
Saturday 14 February and Sunday 15 February 20269am - 3pmHeld over 2 consecutive days
  • Available
Tuesday 24 February 20266.30pm - 8.30pmHeld over 6 consecutive Tuesdays
  • Available
Wednesday 25 February 20266.30pm - 8.30pmHeld over 6 consecutive Wednesday
  • Available
Saturday 28 February and Sunday 1 March 20269am - 3pmHeld over 2 consecutive days
  • Available
Saturday 14 March and Sunday 15 March 20269am - 3pmHeld over 2 consecutive days
  • Available
Saturday 28 March and Sunday 29 March 20269am - 3pmHeld over 2 consecutive days
  • Available
Tuesday 7 April 20266.30pm - 8.30pmHeld over 6 consecutive Tuesdays
  • Available
Wednesday 8 April 20266.30pm - 8.30pmHeld over 6 consecutive Wednesdays
  • Available
Saturday 11 April and Sunday 12 April 20269am - 3pmHeld over 2 consecutive days
  • Available
Saturday 25 April and Sunday 26 April 20269am - 3pmHeld over 2 consecutive days
  • Available
Saturday 9 May and Sunday 10 May 20269am - 3pmHeld over 2 consecutive days
  • Available
Tuesday 19 May 20266.30pm - 8.30pmHeld over 6 consecutive Tuesdays
  • Available
Wednesday 20 May 20266.30pm - 8.30pmHeld over 6 consecutive Wednesdays
  • Available
Saturday 23 May and Sunday 24 May 20269am - 3pmHeld over 2 consecutive days
  • Available
Saturday 6 June and Sunday 7 June 20269am - 3pmHeld over 2 consecutive days
  • Available
Saturday 20 June and Sunday 21 June 20269am - 3pmHeld over 2 consecutive days
  • Available 
Tuesday 30 June 20266.30pm - 8.30pmHeld over 6 consecutive Tuesdays
  • Available
Wednesday 1 July 20266.30pm - 8.30pmHeld over 6 consecutive Wednesdays
  • Available
Saturday 4 July and Sunday 5 July 20269am - 3pmHeld over 2 consecutive days
  • Available
Saturday 18 July and Sunday 19 July 20269am - 3pmHeld over 2 consecutive days
  • Available
Saturday 1 August and Sunday 2 August 20269am - 3pmHeld over 2 consecutive days
  • Available
Tuesday 11 August 20266.30pm - 8.30pmHeld over 6 consecutive Tuesdays
  • Available
Wednesday 12 August 20266.30pm - 8.30pmHeld over 6 consecutive Wednesdays
  • Available
Saturday 15 August and Sunday 16 August 20269am - 3pmHeld over 2 consecutive days
  • Available
Saturday 29 August and Sunday 30 August 20269am - 3pmHeld over 2 consecutive days
  • Available
Saturday 12 September and Sunday 13 September 20269am - 3pmHeld over 2 consecutive days
  • Available
Tuesday 22 September 20266.30pm - 8.30pmHeld over 6 consecutive Tuesdays
  • Available
Wednesday 23 September 20266.30pm - 8.30pmHeld over 6 consecutive Wednesdays
  • Available
Saturday 26 September and Sunday 27 September 20269am - 3pmHeld over 2 consecutive days
  • Available
Wednesday 4 October 20266.30pm - 8.30pmHeld over 6 consecutive Wednesdays
  • Available
Saturday 10 October and Sunday 11 October 20269am - 3pmHeld over 2 consecutive days
  • Available
Saturday 24 October and Sunday 25 October 20269am - 3pmHeld over 2 consecutive days
  • Available
Tuesday 3 November 20266.30pm - 8.30pmHeld over 6 consecutive Tuesdays
  • Available
Saturday 7 November and Sunday 8 November 20269am - 3pmHeld over 2 consecutive days
  • Available
Saturday 21 November and Sunday 22 November 20269am - 3pmHeld over 2 consecutive days
  • Available
Saturday 5 December and Sunday 6 December 20269am - 3pmHeld over 2 consecutive days
  • Available

Breastfeeding — face to face

Cost: Free

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

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.

DateClass timeStatus
Thursday 8 January 202610.00am - 12.00pm
  • Available
Thursday 15 January 20266.00pm - 8.30pm
  • Available
Thursday 12 February 202610.00am - 12.00pm
  • Available
Thursday 19 February 20266.00pm - 8.30pm
  • Available
Thursday 12 March 202610.00am - 12.00pm
  • Available
Thursday 19 March 20266.00pm - 8.30pm
  • Available
Thursday 9 April 202610.00am - 12.00pm
  • Available
Thursday 16 April 20266.00pm - 8.30pm
  • Available
Thursday 14 May 202610.00am - 12.00pm
  • Available
Thursday 21 May 20266.00pm - 8.30pm
  • Available
Thursday 11 June 202610.00am - 12.00pm
  • Available
Thursday 18 June 20266.00pm - 8.30pm
  • Available
Thursday 9 July 202610.00am - 12.00pm
  • Available
Thursday 16 July 20266.00pm - 8.30pm
  • Available
Thursday 13 August 202610.00am - 12.00pm
  • Available
Thursday 20 August 20266.00pm - 8.30pm
  • Available
Thursday 10 September 202610.00am - 12.00pm
  • Available
Thursday 17 September 20266.00pm - 8.30pm
  • Available
Thursday 8 October 202610.00am - 12.00pm
  • Available
Thursday 15 October 20266.00pm - 8.30pm
  • Available
Thursday 12 November 202610.00am - 12.00pm
  • Available
Thursday 19 November 20266.00pm - 8.30pm
  • Available
Thursday 10 December 202610.00am - 12.00pm
  • Available
Thursday 17 December 20266.00pm - 8.30pm
  • Available

Next birth after caesarean — face to face

Cost: Free

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

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.

DateClass timesStatus
Thursday 22 January 20266.00pm - 8.00pm
  • Available
Thursday 26 February 20266.00pm - 8.00pm
  • Available
Thursday 26 March 20266.00pm - 8.00pm
  • Available
Thursday 23 April 20266.00pm - 8.00pm
  • Available
Thursday 28 May 20266.00pm - 8.00pm
  • Available
Thursday 25 June 20266.00pm - 8.00pm
  • Available
Thursday 23 July 20266.00pm - 8.00pm
  • Available
Thursday 27 August 20266.00pm - 8.00pm
  • Available
Thursday 24 September 20266.00pm - 8.00pm
  • Available
Thursday 22 October 20266.00pm - 8.00pm
  • Available
Thursday 26 November 20266.00pm - 8.00pm
  • Available

Young parents birth and parenting program — face to face

Cost: Free

Program duration: 4 hours held over 2 sessions.

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.

DateClass timeNo. of classesStatus
Friday 2 January and Thursday 8 January 20266.00pm - 8.00pmHeld over 2 weeks 
  • Available
Thursday 5 February and 12 February 20266.00pm - 8.00pmHeld over 2 consecutive Thursdays 
  • Available
Thursday 5 March and 12 March 20266.00pm - 8.00pmHeld over 2 consecutive Thursdays 
  • Available
Thursday 7 May and 14 May 20266.00pm - 8.00pmHeld over 2 consecutive Thursdays 
  • Available
Thursday 4 June and 11 June 20266.00pm - 8.00pmHeld over 2 consecutive Thursdays 
  • Available
Thursday 2 July and 9 July 20266.00pm - 8.00pmHeld over 2 consecutive Thursdays 
  • Available
Thursday 6 August and 13 August 20266.00pm - 8.00pmHeld over 2 consecutive Thursdays 
  • Available
Thursday 3 September and 10 September 20266.00pm - 8.00pmHeld over 2 consecutive Thursdays 
  • Available
Thursday 1 October and 8 October 20266.00pm - 8.00pmHeld over 2 consecutive Thursdays 
  • Available
Thursday 5 November and 12 November 20266.00pm - 8.00pmHeld over 2 consecutive Thursdays 
  • Available
Thursday 3 December and 10 December 20266.00pm - 8.00pmHeld over 2 consecutive Thursdays 
  • Available
Manning Hospital

Birth and parenting program — face to face

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

Program duration: 6.5 hours over 1 session

How to book

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

Date classes startLocationClass timeNo. of classesStatus
Saturday 21 February 2026Forster Community Health9am - 3.30pmHeld over 1 day
  • Available
Saturday 21 March 2026Forster Community Health9am - 3.30pmHeld over 1 day
  • Available
Saturday 11 April 2026Forster Community Health9am - 3.30pmHeld over 1 day
  • Available
Saturday 16 May 2026Forster Community Health9am - 3.30pmHeld over 1 day
  • Available
Saturday 13 June 2026Forster Community Health9am - 3.30pmHeld over 1 day
  • Available
Saturday 11 July 2026Forster Community Health9am - 3.30pmHeld over 1 day
  • Available
Saturday 8 August 2026Forster Community Health9am - 3.30pmHeld over 1 day
  • Available
Saturday 5 September 2026Forster Community Health9am - 3.30pmHeld over 1 day
  • Available
Saturday 17 October 2026Forster Community Health9am - 3.30pmHeld over 1 day
  • Available
Saturday 28 November 2026Forster Community Health9am - 3.30pmHeld over 1 day
  • Available
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

How to book

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

DateClass timeNo. of classesStatus
TBCTBCTBCTBC
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
TBCTBCTBCTBC
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.

How to book

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

DateClass timesNo. of classesStatus
Saturday 7 February 20269am - 4pmHeld over 2 consecutive Saturdays
  • Available
Saturday 11 April 20269am - 4pmHeld over 2 consecutive Saturdays 
  • Available
Thursday 7 May 20266pm - 9pmHeld over 4 consecutive Thursdays 
  • Available
Saturday 6 June 20269am - 4pmHeld over 2 consecutive Saturdays
  • Available
Saturday 1 August 20269am - 4pm Held over 2 consecutive Saturdays
  • Available
Thursday 3 September 20266pm - 9pmHeld over 4 consecutive Thursdays
  • Available
Saturday 3 October 20269am - 4pmHeld over 2 consecutive Saturdays
  • Available
Saturday 5 December 20269am - 4pmHeld over 2 consecutive Saturdays
  • Available
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.

How to book

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

Date classes Class timesNo. of classesStatus
TBCTBCTBCTBC

Online live program availability

The Parenting Education office will be closed from 4pm Tuesday 23/12/2025 & will re-open 9am Tuesday 06/01/2026.

Your emails, bookings and voicemails will be responded to from 06/01/2025

View our online live parenting class availability, complete our online booking form (PDF 254.22KB) 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
Saturday 17 January 20269:30am - 1:30pmHeld over 2 consecutive Saturdays
  • Available
Tuesday 3 February6:30pm - 8:30pmHeld over 5 consecutive Tuesdays
  • Available
Saturday 7 March 20269:30am – 1:30pmHeld over 2 consecutive Tuesdays
  • Available

Breastfeeding — online class

Cost: Free

Program duration: 2.5-hour one-off session.

DateClass timeStatus
Thursday 22 January 2026 6pm - 8.30pm 
  • Available 
Thursday 19 February6pm - 8.30pm
  • Available 
Thursday 19 March6pm - 8.30pm
  • Available 

Focus on Fathers — 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 22 January 2026 6pm - 8.30pm 
  • Available 
Thursday 5 March 20266pm – 8:30pm
  • Available 

Multiple miracles — online class

Cost: Free

Program duration: 1.5 hour one-off session.

DateClass timeStatus
Thursday 22 January 2026 6.30pm - 8pm 
  • Available
Thursday 19 March 20266:30pm – 8pm
  • Available

Next birth after caesarean — online class

Cost: Free

Program duration: 1.5 hour one-off session.

DateClass timeStatus
Tuesday 13 January 2026 6.30pm - 8.30pm 
  • Available 
Thursday 22 January 202610am - 12pm
  • Available 
Tuesday 24 February 20266.30pm - 8.30pm
  • Available
Thursday 5 March 202610:00am – 12:00pm
  • Available
Tuesday 31 March 20266:30pm - 8:30pm
  • 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.

Program participant feedback

Find out what participants from our programs have said:

Pregnancy Wise

  • “A positive and safe environment to discuss the changes we all experience in pregnancy and to explore movement in a different way.”
  • "The internet has so much conflicting information, so it was comforting receiving information on this from a health professional in the field."

Birth and Parenting

  • “I would like to also recognise that as the only same sex couple in the group, the educator made us feel safe, welcome and included.”
  • “The educator created a very safe space for us to ask questions and connect with each other. My partner and I also really connected through the experience of doing the course together and had important conversations about the birth and beyond because of the course. We both feel so much more confident to take on birth and parenting.”

Breastfeeding

  • "The educator made myself and my partner feel very comfortable, and we both walked out feeling more confident and reassured about our breast-feeding journey."
  • "This was an excellent course and a valuable resource. I really appreciated the open dialogue and conversational communication."

Planned Caesarean Birth and Parenting

  • "Lots of good information about options within Caesarean birth to follow up with the Obstetrician."
  • Wasn't sure what to expect, definitely recommend as there is always stuff to learn being a first time mum, which you don't realise."

Focus on Fathers

  • “Building off the other courses, breast feeding and parenting, this has been great at filling out the gaps in my knowledge.”
  • “Safe space created, really engaging and practical. I got a lot out of it and left feeling excited for what's to come.”

Multiple Miracles

  • "Huge thank you to the educator for being so amazing & answering all our questions, we both left the class so excited and happy for our future!"
  • "The educator was a great facilitator, engaging, relatable and informative."

Next Birth after Caesarean

  • "I feel I have some valuable information to make an informed decision on what my next birth should look like for me."
  • "The presenter provided a safe and inclusive environment for participants. They also allowed for and encouraged questions at various stages, which I found helpful."

Related information

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