Belonging, Being, Becoming

The early childhood years are a significant period in a child’s learning and development.

“Children’s early learning influences their life chances. Wellbeing and a strong sense of connection, optimism and engagement enable children to develop a positive attitude to learning.” – Early Years Learning Framework 2009.

The St Catherine’s Early Learning Centre acknowledges that the early childhood years are a significant period in a child’s learning and development.

As educators, we first acknowledge that the child belongs to their family and cultural group. Children develop a sense of belonging through developing positive relationships within their family. It is through these relationships that children gain a sense of who they are and where they belong.

When the children make the transition from their home to the Early Learning Centre (ELC), they bring with them their own diverse experiences, perspectives and knowledge. They then must begin to develop a sense of belonging within their classroom community. This is fundamental to a child’s early years.

The children in the St Catherine’s Early Learning Centre are provided with opportunities to wonder, explore, discover and make meaning of the world around them.

Early childhood is a time for young children to wonder, explore, discover and make meaning of the world. The children in the ELC are provided with these opportunities through the educational program. We take a holistic approach to the children’s learning and development to ensure that they have opportunities to build upon their physical, social, emotional, personal, spiritual, creative, cognitive and linguistic skills. Part of this experience is about developing an understanding of themselves, building relationships with others and learning to meet challenges that may come their way.

As children grow, learn and progress through the childhood years, their identities, knowledge, understanding, skills and relationships evolve. This can be a period of significant change and helps them to learn how to participate fully and actively in society. Our aim is for the children to become successful learners, confident and creative individuals, and active and informed citizens.

The United Nation’s Convention on the Rights of the Child states “that all children have the right to an education that lays a foundation for the rest of their lives, maximises their ability, and respects their family, cultural and other identities and languages.” – Early Years Learning Framework 2009.

Ms Sarah Bethune, Head of Early Learning Centre