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 our Early Learning Centre 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 investigations and research regarding the origins of trees, plants, natural items, and seasonal changes. Often, the children represent their interpretations through the ‘hundred languages.’ As children learn more about nature, they begin to understand, connect with, and respect the natural world. 

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 pine cone grow? Why do the leaves fall off trees? How do flowers and vegetables grow?  

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 new growth in the gardens. 

Our outdoor learning space in the ELC provides a myriad of opportunities for engaging with nature. Recently, the children have planted vegetable 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 provides further learning opportunities about these natural elements. 

“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 Early Learning Centre will begin to transition into uniform pieces suitable for the milder weather. This includes the St Catherine’s shorts, t-shirt, rugby jumper and 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.  

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Out of School Hours Care – Term 3 Week 9 Activities and Spring Holidays Vacation Care

Upcoming activities for Term 3 Week 9 are 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 they 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 inquiries.

Book online now to secure your place at After the Bell for vacation care this school holidays. Bookings can be made here.