Our Philosophy
We believe in working collaboratively with children, families and each other to encourage your little person’s journey of enjoyment and discovery about themselves and the world around them.
EYLF (Early Years Learning framework)
This is a framework created by the Government to ensure that your little person receives a high quality learning experience. It describes childhood as a time of Belonging, Being and Becoming.
Belonging is the basis for living a fulfilling life which is integral to a child’s sense of self. It acknowledges belonging to a family, community and culture. It is the foundation of relationships and acceptance.
Being is allowing the children to be in the present – to concentrate on the here and now. It’s allowing them time to investigate, attach to people, environments and experiences. It acknowledges that childhood is a special time in life.
Becoming acknowledges change. There is no time in life that has more rapid change than in the years of early childhood. Becoming recognises the skills that are necessary to thrive through change and how experiences and circumstances create skills, expectations, understandings and relationships. It allows flexibility for a child to learn and grow.
This framework assists educators to focus on establishing the following outcomes for your little person.
- Children have a strong sense of identity
- Children are connected with and contribute to their world
- Children have a strong sense of wellbeing
- Children are confident and involved learners
- Children are effective communicators.
We also actively embrace and implement Reggio Emilia principles here at the centre. Reggio Emilia. is a philosophy of education which takes its name from its place of origin, Reggio Emilia in Northern Italy. Inspired by the demand by the local workforce for quality childcare, and based on the teachings of philosopher Loris Malaguzzi, this education system has developed into a unique and inspiring way of learning which has been adopted by childcare centres and schools all over the world.
The Reggio Emilia philosophy is based on the following set of principles.
- Children must have a strong contribution to the direction of their learning. Children are encouraged to ask their own questions and
test and explore their world on their own terms. Children are strong, independent agents who can construct and collaborate with
others on their journey of discovery. - Children learn through experiencing touch, moving, l istening, seeing and hearing. The environment (a third teacher) and nature are
an important part of their world. Here at the centre we encourage the use of natural materials – wood, paper, clay, sand, wherever
possible. - Children are encouraged to express themselves in as many ways as they can find or think of. Children are encouraged to paint,
draw, and use dramatic play, music and imaginary play to share their feelings and thoughts about the world. We always have art
materials, dramatic play materials (dress up and home corner) available for our little people. - Children, families and teachers are collaborators on a journey together. We can all learn from each other.
Art and creative expression is also actively promoted and encouraged by all educators at the centre. All children have access to numerous resources and ways in which they can express and enjoy their creativity.
We also utilise intentional teaching in our programming and learning experiences. This does not mean we encourage children to learn by rote or in a classroom type manner. We believe in providing children with encouragement, support and scaffolding for their journey of discovery. We engage in teaching that is purposeful, thoughtful and deliberate. It may range from the careful way in which we arrange the materials in our art area to modelling problem solving and creative thinking through role play and collective discussions about” how we can fly to the moon” or “what is the colour red?”