Service Philosophy of Exploring Hub, Child Care Centre In Blacktown
At Exploring Hub Early Learning Centre we believe that each child is a unique individual and displays a different learning style. Children are capable, strong beings who need to be given the opportunity to learn from their own mistakes. Therefore, the educators observe the children daily and critically reflect on each child’s interest and developmental abilities to provide them the opportunity to further extend their knowledge and understanding of their world as well as to develop new skills. We believe in staying connected with the community by planning in-services as well as by organising excursions for the older graduating pre-schoolers. This allows children to actively engage with, feel a sense of belonging to and develop connections with various parts of the community.
Exploring Hub Early Learning Centre strongly believes in the importance of physical activity and healthy eating as a strong part of children’s development. Educators implement the Munch and Move program to ensure children are exposed to enough physical activity throughout the day. Therefore, educators plan play based experiences which promote this on a day to day basis. we believe that the right balance of educator and child involvement during play allows children to develop new skills. We also believe in respecting children for what they are, not just what they can be.
Our program acknowledges and respects the contribution that the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander
people have given to our country and we instil this into our children through our program. All children regardless of race, culture and exceptionality should be able to participate in an early childhood education and care setting. Therefore, all children’s unique abilities and cultural beliefs are explored, recognised and enhanced. Through this our program promotes children’s strength’s and abilities whilst still stimulating children holistically in all areas of development. Educators strongly believe in a holistic program which takes creativity and imagination of the children to another level. The service believes in promoting a strong sense of cultural diversity and inclusion in the service by engaging families and the communities into the program through celebration of various cultural events.
Our service strongly believes that children have the right to feel safe, secure and supported. We align with the United Nations Convections of the rights of the child, and ensure that child are kept safe at all times. Therefore, we aim to assist and support children to grow, learn and develop to the best of their abilities by having high expectations through experiences which constitute problem solving and higher level thinking whilst developing positive relationships with children, families, staff and the community by implementing various approaches. Educator’s pedagogy reflects values such as encouraging children in making their own decisions, regulating their emotions and developing self-control. Educators follow the Code of Ethics to ensure that there is a respectful partnership with children, educators, families, the community and students. Students at our service are encouraged to learn as much as they can whilst on their placements and educators aim to provide them support.
Educators in partnership with families, community and among each other build meaningful and trusting relationships with children in the service. We recognise the expertise of families, and understand that families are a strong influence on children’s learning and development. At Exploring Hub Early Learning Centre, by building relationships with their educators the children learn to develop strong, positive relationships with other children and adults.
We believe that the future generation (children) should have a deep understanding of the importance of taking care of our environment, therefore we are constantly aiming to improve our sustainable practices in the service through educating and working in partnership with the children, families and our wider community. Whilst engaging in sustainable practices educators also understand the importance of technology as a medium of learning. Embedded in our program is a strong sense of literacy, numeracy and phonics. This is provided through a range of experiences which are both play based and child centred. This high level of literacy and numeracy experiences prepares our children for their early schooling years. Educators believe in providing a platform for children to freely express themselves by giving children numerous opportunities to engage in creative arts within the program. Our service is committed to continuous improvement, so our educators make every effort to enhance their skills and knowledge through regular attendance to education and training courses.
The underlying basis of our philosophy is to cater care and love each child unconditionally, to build trust in children and help them to reach their full potential under our care.