At Sunkids Calmvale Children’s Centres, children receive an individualised education of the heart, mind and body.
Children: A Precious Trust
Staff at Sunkids Children’s Centres will treat children with respect and dignity and work daily to be worthy of the trust families have shown by placing their child in our care. Sunkids has an “open door” policy; families are welcome at any time.
This element of the philosophy is linked to National Quality Framework Quality Area 2 and Early Years Learning Framework Learning Outcome 1
Parents: The First Educators
The rights and responsibilities of parents as the first and foremost educators of their children are honoured and respected as being of primary importance. Information about each child is shared between parent and carer using a portfolio method of recording the child’s achievements and individual development.
This element of the philosophy is linked to National Quality Framework Quality Area 6 and Early Years Learning Framework Learning Outcome 2
Early Childhood Professionals: The Role of the Educator
“Among the greatest of all great services is the education of children.” Staff are supported in sharing a joint commitment and responsibility to provide the very best for children entrusted to their care. All staff, regardless of their qualification, are considered to be a valuable team member.
This element of the philosophy is linked to National Quality Framework Quality Area 4 and Quality Area 7 and Early Years Learning Framework Learning Outcome 5
Curriculum: A Child Centred Framework
The needs and interest of children provide the context of the curriculum. This “emergent curriculum” responds to, expands and builds upon the ideas and interests of the children in the group, collectively and individually. The educator plays a pivotal role as co learner, facilitator and observer in an ongoing cyclic process of observing, planning, action, documentation, evaluation and reflection.
This element of the philosophy is linked to National Quality Framework Quality Area 1 and Early Years Learning Framework Learning Outcomes 1,2,3,4,5
The Physical Environment: The Third Teacher
The early childhood centre is a place of inspiration and imagination that fosters learning in a creative, aesthetic and orderly ambience. The space should facilitate open and flexible interactions and provide for the display of children’s work and achievements. Children learn best in a joyful environment where they can feel happy and content. The learning spaces are designed to allow for self selection where children are supported to develop mastery over their environment.
This element of the philosophy is linked to National Quality Framework Quality Area 2 and Quality Area 3 and Early Years Learning Framework Learning Outcome 2
Relationships and Respectful Interactions: Are All There Is
We live in relationship to the world around us. It is the quality of these relationships and interactions that largely determines our state of well-being and empowers the individual to realize their potential. Guiding children as they practice and learn about respectful interactions forms a basis for life long learning and being with others.
This element of the philosophy is linked to National Quality Framework Quality Area 5 and Early Years Learning Framework Learning Outcome 4