Our Philosophy

We acknowledge and believe that children belong first to a family. We believe in working in partnerships with our families and strongly encourage family participation at all levels and times within the centre. We will also support our families with advice, encouragement and resources should they be required.

We believe that all children have the right to high quality early childhood education that is sensitive to their needs and is provided within a safe, caring, stimulating and healthy environment.

We believe that all children should be treated with equity and their diverse backgrounds acknowledged by celebrating the significant occasions and beliefs of both our families and the local community. We recognize that every child, regardless of age, gender, ability, culture or religion is an individual; equally deserving warmth and attention. We will endeavor to help every child within our care, to reach their full potential..

We believe in providing an inclusive and high-quality developmental program in which every child feels welcome and valued and where our children are encouraged to have fun and learn through play.

We view children as capable, competent, co-contributors’ and acknowledge them as active participants in their own learning.

We believe that our programs should be based on a combination of child-initiated learning, adult enriched learning, children’s interests, the local community and intentional teaching.

We recognize the importance of strong mental health in relation to children, families, and staff.  We strive to use a mental health lens in relation to all aspects of our service and incorporate key aspects of the Be You initiative.

We believe in providing facilities that are ever changing to the needs of our children, staff and families. We will endeavor to always look at ways to enhance and improve our environments, both indoors and outdoors.

We believe in the value of exposing children to the natural environment and materials and acknowledge that children will explore these environments in a variety of ways. We believe in the value of teaching children how to care for, explore, respect and maintain these natural spaces and materials.

We believe in the value of allowing children to take educated risks within their play.

We strive to employ caring and compassionate staff; whose personal philosophy reflects our own. We recognize and value the knowledge and commitment of our educators and fully support their continued professional learning.

We believe in promoting a team environment where healthy discussion and debate is encouraged.  This team approach encompasses a positive environment to mentor both students and fellow early childhood professionals. We believe in continuous improvement and researching different and more efficient practices to extend a strong team of passionate and dedicated educators.

We follow the guiding principles of the National Quality Standards and the Early Years Learning Framework, encompassing the values of Belonging, Being and Becoming.

Donvale Preschool is a child safe service and we ensure that the safety and well being of the children is paramount.

We believe that a philosophy statement is an ever-changing document that grows as new insights are gained and current practice is evaluated.    

Nov 2023