Young children generally have an innate desire to explore the natural world. This curiosity helps them to learn about and make connections with the world around them.

The children in the Early Learning Centre (ELC) often spend time observing objects from nature and the natural world. Our philosophy places emphasis on the importance of nature and the children are provided with opportunities to learn about the natural world through our programs.

The children regularly engage in investigation and research regarding the origins of trees, plants, natural items and the seasonal changes. Often, the children represent their interpretations through the ‘hundred languages’. As the children learn more about nature, they begin to understand, connect with and respect the natural world.

The children in the Early Learning Centre regularly observe objects from nature and the natural world around them.

The current seasonal changes in the gardens around us provide the perfect catalyst for investigating nature. Which tree did this leaf come from? How did this pinecone grow? Why do the leaves change colour? The children are currently engaging in learning in their classrooms in relation to these seasonal changes. Observations are made as the children walk around the gardens in our School and stop to take time to observe and discuss the transformation of the trees.

Our outdoor learning space in the ELC provides a myriad of opportunities for engaging with nature. Recently, the children have planted seedlings and they are currently nurturing the seedlings as they grow into plants. The plants, trees and natural elements in the playground also provide opportunities for exploring different textures and surfaces. The integration of water, sand and mud provide further learning opportunities about these natural elements. The importance of learning about and connection to nature cannot be more highly emphasised.

“If we really want children to thrive we need to let their connection to nature nurture them.” – Claire Warden.

ELC Uniform

With the change of season, the children attending the ELC will now transition into uniform pieces suitable for the cooler weather. This includes the St Catherine’s tracksuit pants, polo shirt, rugby jumper, polar fleece jumper, skivvy and/or vest. These uniform pieces can be worn interchangeably according to the weather on a given day. The children must be dressed in full St Catherine’s ELC uniform at all times. Casual clothing items cannot be worn with the ELC uniform. All uniform items are available through our school uniform supplier: Bob Stewart, 150 Waverley Road, Malvern East.