Our philosophy has been inspired by the outcomes and practice principles of the Victorian Early Years Learning Development Framework (VEYLDF).
It also has a strong focus on the needs of our local community, and the values and beliefs of all Tecoma Preschool staff.
We take pride in providing a warm and welcoming environment that gives children the confidence to explore and grow. With children’s interests at the forefront of all programming, educators provide a supportive mix of guided play, adult-led learning and child-directed play and learning. Our beautiful elm tree in the back garden typifies the occurrences seen at our kindergarten – continual change, growth, excitement and development.
Each child should …
- be seen as an independent learner keen to explore and investigate
- be immersed in the importance of patience, sharing, care and trust
- be supported to develop an understanding and respect for cultural diversity
- be encouraged to follow and extend their interests with excitement and in their own time
- feel valued to share ideas, thoughts, feelings and predictions in their daily routines
- feel empowered to extend their learning and be involved in decision making
- explore and respect individuality
- be given the opportunity to develop respectful relationships with peers, educators and visitors to the preschool
- be encouraged to demonstrate respect for rules, routines and expectations of the preschool.
Our educators will aim to …
- work collaboratively to develop a program focusing on the whole child, emphasising the importance of each child’s strengths and emerging interests
- use communication to share ideas, thoughts and feelings regularly
- encourage open, meaningful and respectful communication
- respond to both the family, each child and each other’s needs
- understand the importance of getting down to a child’s level
- work together to celebrate learning for all (children and staff)
- take opportunities to develop and share their own personal knowledge and skills
- smile, have fun, laugh and learn
- develop programs that reach out and utilise the wider community
- continually extend and scaffold each child’s learning, supporting their creativity and individuality
- embrace the importance of continual learning as educators.
Our approach to the environment will aim to …
- provide a safe learning environment where children feel encouraged to explore and create (both indoors and out)
- offer an enriching learning environment containing a variety of meaningful experiences
- create a warm and welcoming space for all to feel comfortable
- emphasise the preservation and protection of the natural environment
- incorporate the natural world into the program to create stimulating and creative experiences
- incorporate sustainability into our everyday practices.
We will aim to work with families and other stakeholders by …
- building relationships that are collaborative, effective and reflective
- regarding highly the importance of family involvement in program planning and special events
- communicating with the committee to ensure smooth running of the preschool and events organised
- reaching out to the local community in our educational programs and fundraising events
- constantly collaborating with local primary schools to encourage efficient transitions to school.