Philosophy

Our philosophy is inspired by the schools of Reggio Emilia, Italy, founded by Loris Malaguzzi with the support of the community and local municipalities following the Second World War.

At its heart is a strong image of the child as capable, creative and resilient, with the ability to make a difference in the world.

We too embrace this strong image of the child and see children as active citizens who, through creative inquiry and collaboration, share their knowledge and theories, make informed decisions, and shape the learning and direction of our work together.

We believe education is a right for all children and a shared responsibility of our community. It creates opportunities for growth, wonder, creativity and knowledge, while fostering the capacity to live together with empathy, respect, understanding and inclusion.

Our philosophy was developed in close consultation with team, children and families, becoming a living and breathing document that underpins all that we do.

COMMUNITY

As a community-based preschool with a strong history and identity, we recognise the importance of community as the foundation for building lasting relationships. Children and families are the cornerstone of our vibrant preschool, working collaboratively to enrich and guide our thinking and practice.
We respect and appreciate our First Nations peoples and their ongoing contributions to our nation. Strong relationships with Aboriginal community members deepen our knowledge and cultivate gratitude and connection that are both embodied and enduring. We believe all people, living creatures and the land have the right to be treated with care and respect, acknowledging our vital role as responsible citizens. We view children as capable members of society who can shape the world around them. We nurture a spirit of generosity and compassion, empowering children to act as agents of change.

RELATIONSHIPS
Relationships are at the heart of our preschool, where we nurture a culture of care, respect and collaboration. Through these relationships, we develop an understanding of ourselves and others, embracing our uniqueness. We believe that fostering habits of democracy, inclusion, cooperation and advocacy enriches our lives. Our sense of connection extends beyond people to embrace nature, materials, and the environment where we play and learn. This approach creates a sense of belonging and fulfilment, where all voices are valued and heard.

CREATIVITY

Creativity is integral in our approach, offering children opportunities to convey their ideas and communicate through a multitude of expressive forms. Drawing inspiration from the schools of Reggio Emilia in Italy, we create an arts-based environment that values time and the creative process. In making these a priority, children are able to consolidate and refine their thinking, as they revisit and reconceptualise their theories. We engage in creative thinking and critical dialogue as a collective, where new ideas and meanings emerge. By collaborating with children as a community of engaged protagonists, we champion and uphold their creative autonomy.

CREATIVITY

Creativity is integral in our approach, offering children opportunities to convey their ideas and communicate through a multitude of expressive forms. Drawing inspiration from the schools of Reggio Emilia in Italy, we create an arts-based environment that values time and the creative process. In making these a priority, children are able to consolidate and refine their thinking, as they revisit and reconceptualise their theories. We engage in creative thinking and critical dialogue as a collective, where new ideas and meanings emerge. By collaborating with children as a community of engaged protagonists, we champion and uphold their creative autonomy.

CURIOSITY

We cultivate a culture of curiosity, where listening, questioning, embracing diverse perspectives and co-constructing meaning are at the forefront. We celebrate the joy of being immersed in the process of theorising, navigating the unknown with wonder, while valuing the journey of discovery. We recognise that curiosity fosters courage, as children confidently move beyond familiar boundaries to explore new ideas, engage in critical thinking, and embrace innovation. By offering learning contexts that challenge and inspire, we encourage deep inquiry. As we research alongside children, we collaboratively uncover new meanings within a multidisciplinary framework, where the unexpected is celebrated.