Our Philosophy
Glenorie Preschool would like to acknowledge the traditional land of the Dharug and GuriNgai peoples on whose land we are situated. We recognise the strength, resilience and capacity of Aboriginal people in this land.
Glenorie Preschool has been a proud and valued part of the Glenorie community since 1984. For more than four decades, we have supported, contributed to and grown alongside our local community.
We believe preschool is more than a place to learn; it is a place where children, families, educators and community come together to belong, connect and grow.
Children at the Heart of Our Practice
We believe every child is capable, competent, curious and deserving of respect. Children actively participate in their learning, and we value their voices, ideas, interests, strengths and experiences.
We create environments where children feel safe to explore, question, experiment, make mistakes and try again, nurturing curiosity, confidence and a lifelong love of learning.
Learning Through Play and Intentional Teaching
Educators support learning and school readiness through play-based experiences, rich learning environments, project inquiry, routines and intentional teaching, while remaining responsive to children's interests.
Educators scaffold learning by extending children's ideas, encouraging curiosity and creating opportunities for exploration, problem-solving and collaboration.
Through a balance of play and intentional teaching, children develop strong foundations in literacy, numeracy, communication, independence, emotional literacy, social skills, resilience and the skills and dispositions needed for a confident transition to school.
Nature and Our Environment
We have a deep connection to and pride in our natural environment. Children are encouraged to observe, explore and care for the natural world, developing an appreciation of living things, seasons, natural materials and the ecosystems around them. We hope to foster a lifelong love of nature and a sense of responsibility for caring for our environment.
We value Bush Kindy and outdoor learning as meaningful opportunities for children to connect with nature, develop confidence and build resilience. Through regular experiences in natural environments, children are encouraged to explore, take considered risks, solve problems and learn collaboratively.
These experiences nurture curiosity, independence and responsibility while strengthening children's understanding of sustainability and their role in caring for Country and the environment.
Belonging, Culture and Diversity
We celebrate the diversity within our preschool community and recognise the knowledge, traditions and experiences every family brings. We strive to ensure every child and family feels seen, valued, respected and included.
We are committed to respectfully embedding Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander perspectives in our everyday learning, recognising the deep and continuing connection to Country, culture, language and community. Through learning about ourselves and one another, children develop empathy, understanding and respect.
Safety, Wellbeing and Inclusion
Above all, we are committed to providing a safe, nurturing and engaging environment centred around child safety. We recognise that safety includes children's physical, mental, emotional and social wellbeing. Children should feel safe to express their feelings, ask for help, set boundaries and know that trusted adults will listen and support them.
We recognise that children and families have different experiences and needs. We are committed to inclusive practice and work collaboratively with families and relevant professionals to support every child's strengths, participation, wellbeing and sense of belonging.
Relationships with Children and Families
Strong relationships are the foundation of quality early childhood education. Our educators are warm, responsive, respectful and committed to building trusting relationships with children and families.
We value families as children's first and most important teachers, welcoming their knowledge, feedback and contributions as we work together to support each child's learning and development.
Our Community
Our connection to Glenorie is an important part of who we are. We provide opportunities for children to engage with local people, places, schools and community events, helping them experience themselves as active and valued members of their community.
These experiences bring learning to life and nurture a strong sense of belonging.
Growing Together
We believe learning is a lifelong journey, and educators are learners too. We continually reflect, listen to children and families, challenge our thinking and seek to improve.
Our philosophy will continue to grow alongside our children, families and community.
Together, we strive to create a preschool where every child can play, wonder, explore, belong and feel safe. A place where every child is known, valued, celebrated and supported to develop a lifelong love of learning.
