Our Program

East Maitland Preschool believes in the value of play based learning, children learn best through play. We value the role other children play in building upon the knowledge and skills of their peers. Play provides a supportive and safe environment for children to learn and develop, it allows children to be whatever they want to be. We also value the importance of safe, secure relationships between educators, children and families, and prioritise developing a sense of belonging at preschool. Educators plan and implement our program to be inclusive of all children and incorporate both what children have in common, and what makes each child unique.

Early Years Learning Framework

The Early Years Learning Framework guides curriculum decisions, and supports learning outcomes in early childhood education, through the implementation of the principles and practices of the framework. Fundamental to the framework are the ideas of Belonging, Being and Becoming. It communicates these expectations through the following five Learning Outcomes: 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; and Children are effective communicators.

Documentation of Learning

We have group learning journals which capture our learning and plans round key projects at preschool. Each child also has their own individual learning profile and plans which educators, families and children all contribute to. There are also often other forms of documentation available throughout the rooms which link children's learning to the EYLF outcomes, and provide greater depth of understanding of the learning which is happening.
East Maitland Preschool has chosen not to use an online app to capture children's photos and documentation, we prioritise time spent with children and time spent collecting, analysing and publishing thoughtful documentation over snapshots and moments. 

Children are Capable and Competent

Children are competent and capable learners, co-constructors of their own knowledge and learning. We view the child as a whole, and work from what each child  already knows to build upon their physical, emotional, social, cognitive and spiritual wellbeing.  We believe it is important to provide meaningful opportunities and resources for children to express ideas, create, experiment, discover, explore, investigate, construct and solve problems with the support of their peers and educators. 

Positive Transitions to School

East Maitland Preschool strives to build ongoing connections to our local schools, so we can plan for effective transitions to school for our preschool children. During their time at preschool your child will be given opportunities to develop and practice many of the foundation skills which will be needed as they start formal learning. Opportunities to develop friendships, negotiate and cooperate with others, work as part of a group, share their thoughts, follow instructions, look after their belongings and developing the confidence to 'have a go'. Early literacy, numeracy and science skills are embedded into children's play experiences each day in authentic and meaningful ways.