Our Philosophy

This philosophy outlines the principles under which our service operates. This philosophy reflects the principles of the National Quality Framework (NQF) (COAG, 2008) and the National Quality Standard (NQS) (DEEWR, 2009b). The national Early Years Learning Framework and the Queensland Kindergarten Learning Guide curriculum are also embedded in and inform this philosophy. It underpins the decisions, policies and daily practices of the approved provider, nominated supervisor, educators, co-ordinators and staff members and assists in planning, implementing and evaluating quality experiences for children. It reflects a shared understanding of the role of the service with children, families and the community.

We acknowledge the rights of the children as paramount. They have the right to a safe, healthy and inclusive environment in which to learn. They have a right to be treated warmly and respectfully. We believe not only in the competence and capability of each child, but also in their right to be active participants in and co-constructors of their learning. For this reason, our programs allow room for the many possibilities and opportunities for learning that occur on a daily basis. Our practices and interactions promote children’s agency as active participants and decision makers in matters affecting them.

We have a strong emphasis on play as children’s natural, dynamic and holistic context for learning. Curriculum decision-making is strongly informed by the context, setting and cultural diversity of our families and our community. Each child’s current knowledge, ideas, culture, abilities and interests are the foundation of our program. We provide diverse learning experiences and endeavour to walk alongside each child on their learning journey.

We value strong, respectful and equitable relationships between educators, children and families. We believe in equity and inclusion and we value diversity. We reflect this in the involvement of our families in our program and we support their role in the parenting and education of their children, respecting their values and beliefs about child rearing. We strive to work as a team with families to gain the optimal outcomes for the child. We encourage the enrolment of children with additional needs and value their involvement.

We acknowledge Australia’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people as the original custodians of this land and we value their diverse cultures. Whenever possible, we include respectful reference to aspects of these which are relevant to the children’s lives and learning. Equity and social justice is reflected in our policies and practices.

We enable children to feel connected to their world and have every opportunity to develop intellectually, physically, socially and emotionally, at their own pace. We provide opportunities to learn and develop a sustainable approach to their world for the benefit of future generations.

As educators, we are committed to improvement and are continually upgrading our knowledge of children and child educational practices through conferences, workshops, professional collaboration and reading professional journals. We strive for excellence in our service to children, families and our community.