Our Philosophy
Our service philosophy is built on five key components
Children First
At APSK, we see each child as a capable, curious and unique little person. We take the time to get to know their interests, strengths and individual ways of learning. We believe children thrive when they feel safe, valued and heard, and that's exactly what we offer.
→ EYLF Outcome 1: Children have a strong sense of identity
→ NQS QA5: Relationships with children
Through play, children explore their world, make sense of it, and develop important skills like problem-solving, teamwork and confidence. Our team gently guides and redirects play when needed, helping children grow socially and emotionally while still feeling in control of their learning journey.
→ EYLF Outcome 4.2: Children develop a range of skills and processes such as problem solving, inquiry and investigation
→ NQS QA1.1.1: Approved learning framework guides practice
Our Role as Educators
We're passionate about the early years and the incredible impact they have on a child's future. As educators, we don't just teach: we nurture, encourage and walk alongside each child as they grow.
→ EYLF Outcome 2: Children are connected with and contribute to their world
→ NQS QA4.2: Professional collaboration
Our programs are holistic, flexible and inclusive, and we adapt our teaching to meet each child where they're at. We aim to make learning meaningful, warm and fun, because we know that's when the magic happens.
→ EYLF Outcome 3: Children have a strong sense of wellbeing
→ NQS QA1.2.1: Intentional teaching
→ NQS QA6.2.3: Community engagement
Family & Community
Families are everything, and we deeply value the strong relationships we share with our families and community. We believe in open, respectful communication and creating a place where families feel just as welcome as the children do.
→ EYLF Outcome 2.1: Children develop a sense of belonging to groups and communities
→ NQS QA6.1.2: Parent views are respected
We know that when families, educators and communities work together, children flourish. Whether it's a casual chat at pick-up or sharing culture, stories or skills, your voice matters here. We truly believe "it takes a village to raise a child," and we love being part of that village.
→ EYLF Outcome 2.2: Children respond to diversity with respect
→ NQS QA6.2.1: Transitions are supported
Our Environment
Our spaces, inside and out, are more than just places to play. They're calm, inspiring and full of opportunities to discover and create. We see our environment as a teacher too, shaping children's learning through natural, engaging and sustainable materials.
→ EYLF Outcome 4.4: Children resource their own learning through connecting with people, place, technologies and natural materials
→ NQS QA3.2.1: Inclusive, stimulating environments
Children can explore, make mess, ask questions and feel at home in our carefully designed spaces. We also encourage a connection to the land and community, helping children understand the world around them.
→ EYLF Outcome 2.4: Children become socially responsible and show respect for the environment
→ NQS QA3.2.3: Environmentally responsible practices
Our Team
We're more than a staff team: we're a family. Each educator brings something special, and we value the different strengths, backgrounds and passions within our team.
→ NQS QA4.1: Staffing arrangements
→ NQS QA7.2.3: Development of professionals
Together, we work to create a supportive, honest and joyful culture, one where we learn from each other, celebrate together, and grow as professionals and people. When educators feel connected and valued, that energy flows right through to the children and families we support.
→ EYLF Principle: Ongoing learning and reflective practice
→ NQS QA7.1.1: A statement of philosophy guides all aspects of the service's operationsOur Program
Ages 6 weeks to 6 years | Open 6:30am to 6:30pm, Monday to Friday | Rated Meeting the National Quality Standard | Start Strong funding eligible | CCS approved
Early Years Learning Framework
The framework behind everything that we do
The Framework conveys the highest expectations for all children’s learning from birth to five years and through the transitions to school. It communicates these expectations through the following five learning outcomes:
- Children have a strong sense of identity
- Children are connected with and contribute to their world
- Children have a strong sense of wellbeing
- Children are confident and involved learners
- Children are effective communicators
The Framework provides broad direction for early childhood educators in early childhood settings to facilitate children’s learning.
The Framework is designed to inspire conversations, improve communication and provide a common language for young children’s learning among children themselves, their families, the broader community, early childhood educators and other professionals.
School Readiness
A holistic approach
At APSK we take a holistic approach towards the preparation for primary school. Children are engaged in experiences throughout the day with the aim of preparing them for the transition into the primary school classroom.
A successful first year of school is the foundation for:
- Children’s successful learning
- A strong school/parent relationship
Starting school can be an exciting, though often anxious experience for young children and their families. When children move from a familiar preschool environment with established relationships and routine, a larger school setting can be overwhelming even for very confident children.
Annangrove Preschool Kindergarten plays an important role in easing the transition for children and families from preschool to the school setting.
Our educators aim to create positive learning environments and guide experiences for each child in conjunction with their family. Educators will observe children and facilitate their learning to provide each child with an individualised portfolio by documenting their learning throughout the year. Children and their families will be encouraged to participate in the ongoing process to promote engaged learning.
Confident Learners
High-quality early education
At APSK, we believe children progress well when they, their families and educators hold high expectations for their learning.
Children develop an understanding of themselves and their world through active, hands-on investigation. A supportive, active learning environment encourages children's engagement in learning.
Active involvement in learning builds children's understanding of concepts, and the creative thinking and inquiry skills that are essential for lifelong learning.
Healthy Habits
Fresh meals, every day
Early childhood is the ideal time for children to develop and practise healthy eating and physical activity habits. This includes learning fundamental movement skills that help children take part in, and enjoy, physical activity throughout their lives.
Establishing healthy habits from an early age gives children the best chance of leading a healthy life. Learning about nutrition, personal hygiene, physical fitness, emotions and relationships is integral to wellbeing and self-confidence, and physical wellbeing supports children's ability to concentrate, cooperate and learn.
At APSK, we provide fresh, nutritious meals daily, based on a six-week rotating menu. Children are encouraged to build healthy eating habits as they explore different flavours and textures.
Our large, beautiful playgrounds provide many opportunities for children to explore and build their gross motor skills.
Creative Learning and Play
Expression through creativity
At APSK, children are encouraged to express themselves creatively through a wide variety of indoor and outdoor experiences.
Fine and gross motor skills are developed through manipulative play, block play, sensory play, dramatic play, drawing, and physical activities such as running and skipping.
Mathematics and science concepts, along with an appreciation of the natural world, are explored through block play, building, cooking, water play, sensory play, gardening and collecting natural materials such as leaves and rocks.
Language development is supported through educators modelling language, story time, games, poems and dramatic play.
Social, emotional and independence skills are strengthened through role-play, group games and self-help tasks, while music and movement support children's physical, social and creative development.
Road safety, hygiene, dental care and nutrition are all built into our program.
