Development Philosophy

The development philosophy adopted at our centre is an integration of four educational approaches: Emergent Curriculum, Montessori, Multiple Intelligences and the traditional classroom.

The Emergent curriculum philosophy is based on the principles that children must be able to learn through experiences of touching, moving, listening, seeing, and hearing and must have endless ways and opportunities to express themselves. The Montessori method stresses the importance of adapting the child's learning environment to his or her developmental level, and of the role of physical activity in absorbing academic concepts and practical skills.

Combining the best elements of these approaches ensures the ‘whole’ child will have their individual needs met, in a calm, harmonious environment that is free from bias and prejudice, and that encourages children to develop socially, intellectually and emotionally as well as sparking their imaginations and creative instincts.  It is accepted that children learn through play and it is through play-experiences that children learn to make sense of the world around them. We believe that children develop best in a nurturing, loving, and responsive environment, one that promises a commitment to children and supports a variety of learning opportunities where children are free to explore.

Our objective is to create meaningful experiences for children that extend their cognitive, language, physical and socio-emotional development.  The physical environment plays an important part in our development philosophy. We have incorporated a blend of natural and contemporary building materials in the studios making them warm and inviting and they are filled with books, art and puzzles with relaxation music in the background.  The program is inspired by children’s curiosity and imagination.

Our staff will observe children’s play and listen carefully to children’s questions so they may support emergent projects and creations that come directly from the children instead of the staff. In small group work teams and large group free choice activities, staff provide invitations to the children on topics they express interest in. Under this approach children will learn to view themselves as contributing members of the school community. Every child is an individual, and we respect and value differences, and look with an open mind at all members of the community, making them understand that they are valued for who they are. 

The centre endorses and supports family values. We want all of the families to feel that they are an integral part of the Centre and welcome input and suggestions. We encourage all of the families to be actively involved in their child’s studio and in Centre activities and events. Our centre seeks to work with parents to create a ‘a big family atmosphere’ – a place where people really care and try to help each other with the important job of raising happy, capable children.