Philosophy:
At Wilson Street Kindergarten we believe in the transformative power of positive early life experiences and the unique, unhurried journey of childhood. Our philosophy is rooted in providing a child-centred, stimulating educational environment that nurtures the inherent potentials and capacities of the child. We value the importance of building responsive and respectful relationships between children, families, staff members, the local and broader community, First Nations People, and the sustainability of the environment. We honour diversity and view children as curious, creative individuals that are born with rights. We promote a strong and positive image of children as citizens and active participants in democratic communities.
Mission statement:
1. To deliver a high-quality, inclusive, child-led, safe, open-ended, play and nature-based curriculum that celebrates each child’s unique strengths, interests, and dispositions.
2. To create a welcoming environment where each child and their family feels a sense of belonging and develops a connection with the wider community.
3. To embrace a collaborative approach to teaching, working in partnership with families and other professionals to improve outcomes in children’s learning and development.
We are committed to continuous professional development, reflection on our practice, and staying up to date with contemporary approaches to early childhood education. At WSK we are inspired by the Reggio Emilia Education Project and guided by the Early Years Learning Framework V2.0 and the Victorian Early Years Learning and Development Framework.
First Nations Perspectives:
Wilson Street Kindergarten acknowledges the Bunurong and Boon Wurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the traditional owners of the land on which we play and learn. We intentionally work with the children to deepen their understanding of the importance of caring for country through sustainable practices. This is enhanced by embedding First Nations perspectives throughout the physical environment, in our day-to-day practice and relationship with local First Nations people. Through the process of truth telling, recognition of the past and the need for social justice and equity for First Nation’s people, the spirit of reconciliation can begin to grow.
Our Commitment to Child Safety:
Wilson Street Kindergarten is committed to promoting and protecting the safety and wellbeing of all children, staff, volunteers, families, and community members. We have established policies, procedures and practices that align with the Victorian Commission for Children and Young People Child Safe Standards. We have a zero- tolerance approach to child abuse in any form, and all allegations are treated seriously and consistently. Wilson Street Kindergarten is committed to the cultural safety of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, the cultural safety of people from a culturally and/or linguistically diverse backgrounds, and to providing a safe environment for people with special rights. We have specific policies, procedures and training in place that support our staff to achieve these commitments.
