The Early Learning Program at St Catherine’s supports children’s physical learning and development through a range of play and learning opportunities.

As outlined in our curriculum framework, the Early Years Learning Framework for Australia (EYLF), educators support children’s learning so that over time they work towards Learning Outcome 3.2, “Children take increasing responsibility for their own health and physical wellbeing.”

With the Spring weather upon us, this is the ideal time of year for the children to be spending time in the outdoor program. Our ELC playground provides the children with a physical challenge every time they encounter this space. The children are required to develop the skills to traverse rocks and a range of surfaces. They move in different directions and step up and down as they navigate the pathways within the space. The children exercise a range of physical skills when climbing, digging, swinging, riding, engaging in ball games, building with blocks and other materials. Through regular experience in this naturally challenging learning space, the children are constantly developing and refining their physical skills.

The children in the Early Learning Centre have recently re-commenced the Outdoor Physical Education Program. This Program provides the children with the opportunity to use sporting equipment and engage in a range of whole group and team games led by our Physical Education Teacher, Mrs Jenny De Nardis. The Outdoor Physical Education Program is designed to develop the children’s coordination, balance, agility, spatial awareness, ball skills and team work. The children also gain skills in running, jumping, skipping and hopping. In addition, the children are required to listen to instructions and follow rules and directions whilst participating in these group sessions.

The importance of physical activity extends beyond the obvious benefits to a child’s physical development. Studies have found favourable associations between the time children spend in active play and their management of their own behaviour, as well as how they get along with others. There are also correlations between physical activity and a child’s ability to concentrate and focus in the classroom. The relaxation and wellbeing benefits are significant. For these reasons, we must make physical play and activity a priority in both the school and home settings.

Out of School Hours Care – Week 5 Activities

Upcoming activities for Term 4 Week 5 detailed here.

St Catherine’s School offers an Out of School Hours Care program to all ELC and Junior School families. The program is implemented by our provider ‘After the Bell’, and operates within the ELC building. Parents are reminded that if you need to use the Before School Care or After School Care service, registrations need to be made in advance with ‘After the Bell’. Please allow up to five business days for your registration to be processed before your child can begin attending the program. Registration is free. All families are encouraged to register so that you can use this service in the event that you are unable to pick up your child.

Before School Care – 7.00am to 8.45am

After School Care – 3.00pm to 6.00pm

Registrations can be completed via the ‘After the Bell’ website.

Please phone 9758 6744 for all enquiries.