Stockton Public School Preschool philosophy
In respect of children
We believe:
- Each child deserves to be healthy, safe, secure, engaged, challenged and supported in their learning and development.
- In providing a fun play based program that is developmentally and age appropriate as well as relevant to the children’s individual needs, strengths and interests.
- Children are capable and resourceful learners who are active contributors to their own learning.
- Children need opportunities to practice and consolidate skills in being a confident learner while working towards the outcomes as expressed in the National Early Years Learning Framework.
Therefore we:
- Encourage each child to reach their full potential and succeed academically, physically and socially in accordance with their individual ability.
- Support and embrace individualism as well as create relevant learning experiences that are specific to the children’s emotional, social and physical development.
- Provide a variety of resources to support the child’s independence, capabilities and their shared responsibility in their own learning.
- Implement a child centred program based on the principles of the National Early Years Learning Framework – ‘Belonging, Being and Becoming’.
In respect of families and community
We believe:
- We must strive to be a Pre School of excellence that provides quality education and care within our community.
- Trust, respect, communication and collaboration form the basis for the strong partnerships between families and staff.
- The needs of children, families, staff and the community are constantly changing and ongoing evaluation is essential to create a program that is responsive to those needs.
- It is important for children and families to contribute their perspective towards quality improvement and service philosophy.
Therefore we:
- Ensure that we operate within the guidelines of the DEC, National Quality Framework and National Laws and Regulations.
- Maintain channels of communication with families, the school and the community.
- Consider the child’s family views, cultures, values and traditions and the impact these may have on relationships, learning and development.
- Have an open door policy where you can arrange to speak with staff regarding any questions, suggestions, concerns or comments.
In respect of the physical environment
We believe:
- The environment should be appealing and welcoming to children, families and staff.
- Our Pre School will provide opportunities for children to interact with the natural environment and promote respect and understanding about children’s responsibility to care for the environment.
- That the Pre School should provide a happy, secure, comforting and stimulating environment that encourages children to explore, problem solve, create and construct.
Therefore we:
- Provide colourful, safe and well maintained play areas that are predictable but also ever changing in accordance with the children’s interests.
- Have outdoor and indoor environments where children can observe, explore, investigate, imagine and learn lifelong skills.
- Design the outdoor and indoor spaces to encourage opportunities of spontaneous learning while supporting the various learning styles of the children.
In respect of staff
We believe:
- In working together to maintain and improve standards while respecting individual teaching approaches.
- In supporting and assisting each other’s professional development.
Therefore we:
- Provide opportunities for staff to share in decision making and to obtain feedback.
- Provide a safe and comfortable working environment.
- Provide ongoing professional development for staff.