Our Vision
To be a supportive, nurturing, inclusive educational service where children’s wellbeing is promoted through natural play experiences. With families and the community, we strive to provide positive futures for our children.
Philosophy
At Gloucester Pre-School & Early Years Learning Centre we view children as capable, competent co-contributors and active participants in their own learning. Early childhood education sets the foundation for positive lifelong learning.
Educators & staff actively strive to provide an environment and atmosphere in which children and families feel emotionally safe, secure, & a sense of belonging to our early years’ education & care community.
Learning occurs in a supportive unhurried natural environment where children’s individual perspectives, interests, backgrounds, families and life experiences are celebrated. Education is provided through:
- Intentional teaching practices using children’s interests.
- Families’ home cultural knowledge & experiences.
- Knowledge & reconciliation with our local Aboriginal community, their beliefs & culture.
- Respect for our environment & its resources.
These will be used to promote ongoing inquiry, knowledge and confidence in children’s individual capabilities.
Educational practices are influenced by theorists like Montessori, Dewey & Gardner through the lens of Claire Warden’s Nature Pedagogy. Our service promotes a natural learning environment that includes learning beyond the boundary fence, connecting us to our rural community. We promote children to assess and take risks and build resilience in a supportive environment. We understand the connection that caring for our environment supports the long-term health and wellbeing of current and future generations of children. Our culture of organisational growth is based on critical reflection and ongoing professional learning.
Gloucester Pre-school strives to be an integral part of the local community. We collaborate and work in partnership with people, services, and agencies to develop shared understanding and actions that support children and families.
