Personal Philosophy

Children
I believe that every child is a unique individual that has the right to learn and have

their needs met whilst being treated with kindness and respect. I also believe that

each child comes to the classroom with their own set of knowledge that is valid,

important and to be respected. I think that providing a safe and supportive

environment is a fundamental component for children to develop secure and trusting

relationships with myself, fellow educators and their peers. I believe that an

environment most conductive to effective learning in the early years is a play-based,

hands-on environment that enriches learning, allows access to resources, empowers,

supports and scaffolds their development. I recognise that all children are different

and learn in a multiple of ways, therefore the importance of catering for a variety of

diverse learning styles is essential to ensure all children’s learning needs are being

met.

Families and community

I believe children need to feel a sense of belonging and have a connection with their

local communities. It is important that they know what is happening around them and

become involved citizens, while simultaneously learning the practices and values that

are respected within the community. I believe it is imperative that caring,

confidential, open and trusting relationships are formed with parents and families by

making them feel welcome. Rich and dynamic learning can come from collaborative

relationships between the child’s family, community and educators. Therefore by,

recognising that children come from families of diverse cultures and traditions, I will

be considering their expectations and interests and including it into my program. This

creates a holistic approach to each child’s learning and development. I believe in an

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open-door policy where every parent/caregiver feels comfortable to communicate

and become involved.

Environment
The environment is a major influence on a child’s learning and development. A

child’s environment needs to be safe, stimulating and enjoyable, while nurturing

positive relationships with other children, families and educators. My goal is to

create a learning environment that provides quality education, while improving the

lives and identities of the children and their families. I believe in a natural

environment, that teaches children about sustainability, healthy life choices, and

providing opportunity for family involvement. Involving children and families to

create a sustainable and natural environment is imperative to the centre and

community, as the outdoor environment is just as important as in the indoor. The

environment should provide children with as many experiences as possible and cover

the eight domains of development: physical, personal, moral, cognitive, creative,

language, emotional and social.

Educational Program
The curriculum should connect children to their everyday lives, be meaningful and

fill a child with knowledge and practical lessons. Therefore, it is important for the

Early Years Learning Frame work to aid and support my practices. I believe in a

play-based program, as it provides each child an opportunity to form relationships,

develop social and emotional skills, promotes self-confidence as well as adding an

element of risk, creation and exploration. I also believe that integrating the Kathy

Walker approach into the program will have positive results for the children, as not

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only does it focus on the children’s interests, but it also allows for investigation,

discovery and reflection of learning in a fun and engaging way. In incorporating play

and investigation will provide a positive and challenging learning and teaching

environment, where all children become confident and involved learners.

Diversity and Inclusion

All children’s backgrounds, including their cultures, traditions and heritage should be

valued and embraced within the centre. My aim is to encourage families to teach the

class about their specific language, lifestyles and history; whether by telling stories,

singing songs or hands-on learning. I will promote an awareness of different cultures,

beliefs and values through open communication with parents/caregivers. I will

encourage the children to respect each other through positive social interactions and

learning. I believe in a non-judgemental environment, where everyone experiences

equanimity and has a sense of belonging, creating an environment where everyone is

free to learn and participate in.

Other

Education is a life-long process that is a valuable aspect of modern-day living. My

goal is to continue my own personal learning and self-development. I aim to provide

high quality education and care to the children and families I work with, that is

deeply enriched in self-reflection and effective communication – an integral feature

of an educator’s career.

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