Our educational program is developed based on the learning theories of Reggio Emilia, Montessori and the Steiner approach plus more.
Our educational program is developed based on the learning theories of Reggio Emilia, Montessori and the Steiner approach plus more. We believe that children learn at different times and use different approaches, therefore utilising a range of learning theories helps all children grow, learn and develop in their own time.
Using the foundations of the learning theories, our educational program focuses on the children’s interests, ideas and needs to further their development in a range of
different areas. We value family feedback and this information helps work within our educational program.
Our educational program is guided by the learning outcomes of the Early Years Learning Framework, as well as the principles and practices that help guide educators towards creating a quality program. The National Quality Framework is also used to guide the services practices and procedures to ensure that Smarties Early Learning Centre is implementing high quality, best practices at all times.
The Early Years Learning Framework was developed with a series of Principles, Practices and Outcomes established to ensure quality education and care for children in their early childhood years.
The Principles underpin practice that is focused on assisting all children to make progress
in relation to the Learning Outcomes.
These Principles include:
- Secure, respectful and reciprocal relationships between educators, children and families
- Partnerships with families
- High expectations and equity
- Respect for diversity
- Ongoing learning and reflective practice to ensure best practice for our educators
The Practices highlighted in the Early Years Learning Framework are:
- Adopting holistic approaches
- Being responsive to children
- Planning and implementing learning through play
- Intentional teaching
- Creating physical and social learning environments that have a positive impact on children’s learning
- Valuing the cultural and social contexts of children and their families
- Providing for continuity in experiences and enabling children to have successful transition
- Assessing and monitoring children’s learning to inform provision and to support children in achieving learning outcomes
The five Learning Outcomes that are designed to capture the integrated and complex
learning and development of all children across the birth to five age range are:
- Children have a strong sense of identity
- Children are connected with and contribute to their world
- Children have a strong sense of wellbeing
- Children are confident and involved learners
- Children are effective communicators
Forming trusting bonds with the children and their family is central to our program in our Nursery.
Developing exciting and meaningful experiences to promote independence and autonomy is central to our 2-3 age group.
Encouraging curious minds to question, ponder, wonder and explore forms the basis of our Preschool Program.