QUALITY RATING

St Peter’s Preschool believes Early Childhood Education is the foundation of learning for young children. We believe in the importance of providing access to a quality Preschool program from three years of age. St Peter’s Preschool believes that children are engaged by a sense of Belonging, Being and Becoming and works within the Early Years Learning Framework version 2. Below are the children’s voices in shaping our philosophy:

From children, when asked about Preschool:

• “I love Preschool I just want to stay here.” (HR)

• “You would learn about dinosaurs, science and you can do puzzles” (AW)

• “You would learn how to draw” WB)

• “You learn how to be nice” (LS)

• “You learn how to use scissors and how to make birds. I can learn to run really fast” (EW)

• “I want to learn to read just like the teachers.” (LF)

• “I want to get better at drawings pictures and other things.” (TC)

• “I want to do lots of painting” (SM)

St Peter’s Preschool provides a safe, secure and nurturing environment with kind, compassionate and fully trained staff to meet the individual needs of each child and family. This is in line with the Early Childhood Code of Ethics and incorporate the Child Safe Standards which all staff adhere to. Our Preschool acknowledges that we meet on land cared for by the Kamilaroi people and respect their culture as we walk hand in hand together to create a better world. The aim of our Preschool is to provide an inclusive environment for all children and their families.

 

Our Preschool believes it is essential to build strong, lasting, trusting relationships will all families and children whilst nurturing their individuality. Educators recognise and celebrate the important roles of both immediate and extended family.

Families helped create our philosophy with these comments:

•  “My child would come here every day.”

• “The team feels like extended family.”

• “Core values are applicable to everyone.”

• “Strong emphasis on safety and wellbeing.”

• “Individualised learning for each child.”

• “Love St Peter’s and the care given to my child.”

• Beautiful facility.”

• Stimulating environment.”

It is our belief that Early Childhood is a key period in supporting each child holistically and addressing emerging additional needs and strengths. St Peter’s Preschool supports a balance between play-based learning based on the child’s needs, interests and strengths and intentional teaching moments. Additionally, we recognise the importance of providing creative expression experiences throughout the program.

 

Educators model and promote the development of confidence and self-esteem, both individually and as a member of the Preschool, and wider community. We recognise the importance of promoting positive mental health outcomes for families, children and staff. St Peter’s Preschool supports and encourages staff to engage in ongoing critical reflection and to participate in professional development.

 

It is part of our philosophy to teach children about the Christian faith according to the Bible. We are committed to explaining Christian values that flow from understanding Gods’ love to us in Jesus such as empathy, respect, compassion and love for each other. This is demonstrated by reflecting on the verse “Love one another as I have loved you” John 13:34-35. These values align with those of St Peter’s Anglican Church. Our service supports positive and respectful interactions, communication and behaviours from all connected stakeholders.

 

Educators are committed to instilling in all children a love of, and commitment to the care of their local and global environments. Sustainable practices are embedded in every day planning and learning with resources and natural materials sourced where ever possible.

 

St. Peter’s Preschool is recognised by the local educational community for laying a strong foundation of learning that assists children in their next steps to formal schooling which is also supported by parent feedback. The Preschool values strong relationships with local services as our Preschool recognises the importance of community connections to foster a sense of belonging. St Peter’s Preschool is an advocate for Early Childhood Education and welcomes students from TAFE, Universities and schools to engage in reciprocal relationships.

Educators encourage and promote the development of confidence and self-esteem, both individually and as a member of the Preschool community. We recognise the importance of sustaining positive mental health in family, children and staff. St Peter’s Preschool supports and encourages staff to engage in periodic critical reflection and to participate in ongoing professional learning.

 

 

(The process of updating this document commenced in 2023 and was completed in 2024, after consultation with parents, Committee Members and discussion at staff meetings).