Cootamundra Centenary Pre School Philosophy

As educators of young children we feel the provision of a non-threatening, non-sexist, unprejudiced, safe, happy, stimulating and sensitive environment is of paramount importance.  We believe that the environment for young children should encourage inquiry, choice, creativity, curiosity, problem solving and risk taking – an environment that facilitates and supports children’s play and learning.

Essential to the learning process is the interaction of children to adults, children to children and the Pre School to the wider community.  Children are active natural learners, and are given the opportunity to develop socially, cognitively, physically and emotionally as individuals – developing positive feelings of self-worth.  We encourage children to become caring and empathetic members of our community, treating their peers with respect and warmth, and helping them to realise that the way you treat others will in a way determine the way others treat you.

As Educators we recognise the importance of treating each child and family with dignity and respect, and as individuals with a variety of backgrounds, needs, tastes and opinions.  We honour diversity - exploring, acknowledging and valuing our similarities and differences.  Every parent has the right to feel secure in the knowledge that their child is being cared for in a nurturing, caring, stimulating and challenging environment.  We aim to provide an environment in which families feel welcome and comfortable, free to offer any advice or suggestions as they see fit – to have as little or as much input into the programme as they wish.

As a result of the multitude of programmed play activities offered, knowledge, attitudes and skills are sharpened.  (Children learn through play).  To foster positive growth in children it is necessary for our Pre School to provide a learning environment where the child is free to make choices about the way they use materials, thus encouraging creativity, problem solving and communication.  The evaluation of our programme enables us to determine whether or not we are providing the most developmentally appropriate practices, materials and learning experiences for a particular child, as well as the group as a whole.

It is essential to have a caring, enthusiastic and committed group of people working together as a team, focused on providing high quality Pre School Education and care of young children and their families.  We place great emphasis on a close familiarity and understanding of the various theories of child development, and what current research is telling us.  We recognise the important role we play in the lives of families, and in the broader sense, the community in which we live and work.

Pre School is a vital link between home and the school system, providing opportunities for children to develop important intellectual, social, emotional, communication and physical skills, essential to a smooth and successful transition to school.