As EC professionals we are required to provide a programme that challenges, inspires and meets the interests and needs of the children. Whilst at the same time meeting the expectations of families, the community and the licensing and regulatory bodies. An intersting mix and one that both excites and challenges us everyday.
- Our programme is neither child centred, nor teacher directed. Instead we aim to have a programme that reflects and respects that children are;
- active learners
- social beings
- individuals with a variety of learning styles and intelligences
- capable.
The foundation of our programme is built upon the NSW Curriculum Framework.
St. Stephen's is part of the wider community where your children live. Parents and family are the most important people in young children's lives in the early years and have the most significant impact in their learning. Thus, at St Stephens the children, families and staff are in a relationship together where we work in together to provide a programme of experiences and interactions that enriches the lives of the children. This collaboration, the development of positive relationships and enriched experiences allows children, parents and professionals to truly:
- see and hear
- be open to and accepting of change
- be confident to take risks
- meet challenges
Rather than focussing on what the children "can't do", we prefer to focus on what they can do and are capable of and use these capabilities to build upon and lead to further development. We believe that
"Early Childhood is the foundation on which children build the rest of their lives. But it is not a preparation for adolescence and adulthood: it has an importance in itself." Ball (1994).
At St. Stephen's we see children as social beings and believe that we need to nurture within them positive attitudes towards others and the ability to show respect and care for others and the world around them. In short we assist the children to develop a sense of human responsibility for self, others and the environment.
