We at Shine Bright Fenaughty Street Kindergarten would like to acknowledge and thank the Yorta Yorta people for sharing the land on which we work and play. In all our endeavours we promise to respect and care for the land, the animals and the people in our community.

Our aim is to provide a high quality, innovative, educational program for all children in a nurturing, trusting and caring environment with a focus on celebrating and encouraging children’s individualism, wellbeing and creativity.

Identity

We believe every child is unique with their own strengths interests and needs and has their own individual learning style which must be accommodated to ensure they are able to reach their fullest potential. Each child enters the Kindergarten program with differing backgrounds and experiences. They are travelling on their own unique journey through life and will travel at the pace that is right for them. This journey cannot be rushed or forced therefore children will be given unhurried time to engage, practice and reflect on experiences offered within the program As children travel on their learning journey they will be encouraged and supported to guide the path/direction the journey is going.

Community

We value parents as the first educators of their children and acknowledge the important role they play in the development of programs We respect all families’ cultures, traditions and celebrate diversity and inclusion. We recognise the importance of developing respectful, positive relationships with families, extended family and all members of the community and work in partnership to enrich the program and support the development of all children and families to feel valued and included. Wellbeing

The wellbeing, health and safety of children is our priority. We promote healthy wellbeing through active play, reflective meditations, yoga, healthy eating programs and use of Kimochis to support children developing understanding and identifying feelings and emotions. We are committed to providing a warm, caring and welcoming environment where children feel safe, worthwhile and important and encourages their natural instincts of exploration and discovery.

Learning

We strive to provide a developmentally appropriate program that takes into consideration the children’s strengths, interests and needs but is also responsive to parents and children’s social and cultural diversities. Practice is based on understanding of children’s learning and the value placed on uninterrupted play, developing positive relationships, collaborative decision making and respect for diversity, and is reflected in the program opportunities that are provided for children.

Communication

We acknowledge the importance of communication and the role it plays in a child’s development. Through consultation with elders, Yorta Yorta words and language are included in the program. Educators support children’s language and communication through the use of the Abecedarian approach, Key Word signs, Kimochis, visual cues, stories, songs, dance and drama.

Pedagogy

Educators are committed to ongoing Professional Development in order to keep abreast of new trends, ideas and practices which enhance the development of children and programs that assist in their development. Reflecting upon and evaluating practices with colleagues, parents and children is ongoing in order for the program to be adapted so that children are able to reach their full potential. As the need arises, educators will act as advocates for children and families.