Curriculum

Learning at Bradshaw Preschool

Belonging, being, becoming

The learning program at Bradshaw Preschool is designed using The Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF) in partnership with the Northern Territory Preschool Curriculum (NTPC), which focus on belonging, being and becoming. Programs consider and respect the three components that allow children to participate in everyday life, develop their interests and construct their own identities and understandings of the world.

We use the following Learning Outcomes to ensure quality educational programs are offered to all individuals:

• Identity
• Connectedness
• Wellbeing
• Learning and Thinking
• Communication

The learning program both follows and stimulates the interests that the children bring with them to preschool.

The children are always busy at preschool selecting different activities according to their interests. At this level it is the process not the product that is usually important. Preschool is important for the development of self-identity, interest in learning and preparation for formal learning.

Learning through play

Learning outcomes are achieved through the medium of “play”. Play provides opportunities for children to:

•  Observe and be involved in the learning environment first hand
•  Make decisions and solve problems
•  Develop body awareness
• Express feelings in a socially acceptable manner
• Extend language skills
• Interact with others
• Develop a positive self-concept

Literacy and numeracy skills are included and encouraged in the learning program, but please remember that preschool is not an academic year.

Learning mindsets

We aim to develop ‘growth mindsets’ at Bradshaw School, in contrast to ‘fixed mindsets’. A growth mindset is a way of thinking that believes that intelligence can be developed through hard work, persistence, embracing challenges and rejoicing in the learning gained from mistakes and failure.

As educators we help children to develop growth mindsets through providing feedback based on their effort and process rather than innate ability. For example, instead of a comment like ‘how clever you are’ we would say ‘wow, that was a really tricky task, I saw that you tried really hard’.

Bradshaw Preschool, in line with Bradshaw Primary School, emphasises three learner qualities that are necessary for lifelong learning. They are:

• We challenge ourselves.

• We are responsible.

• We learn together.

Learning activities

Indoor activities include a large, rotating variety of equipment available for children to:

• Paint and draw
• Cut, paste and create with collage materials
• Build and create with blocks
• Express themselves through dramatic play
• Model with clay and dough
• Construct and investigate with manipulative toys
• Explore using books, puzzles and other cognitive games and equipment

Outdoor activities offer children free choice to develop skills in various ways, including:

• Sand and water play
• Climbing, jumping and running
• Ball games
• Balance activities
• Bike riding
• Gardening
• Cubby house play
• Sensory exploration
• Throwing and catching
• Investigative project work, enhancing children’s love of the outdoors

Group time activities may include:

• Singing and dancing
• Show and tell
• Watching, discussing and reflecting on pictures, books, videos and live performances
• Discussing experiences
• Listening to visitors
• Playing group games to develop skills

Interactions with children

Preschool is a place where children feel safe and secure and where they can belong, be and become. They learn about themselves and others through their interactions so these interactions should be positive and promote a child’s sense of self. Educators act as role models to guide children’s social and emotional development and provide positive guidance to support children finding it challenging establishing relationships with others.

At Bradshaw Preschool all children are supported to develop positive relationships with other children and educators and are provided appropriate support when they are finding it challenging engaging with others. Children are involved in rule making and conflict resolution and are empowered to respond appropriately to behaviour they find unacceptable.

If there are ongoing behaviour issues these will be discussed with families and appropriate action plans developed in consultation with families and other professionals as required.

Excursions

Excursions to various town venues are part of the preschool curriculum. They are valuable in the development of a sense of community and our role in it. It also strengthens vocabulary, self-confidence, social skills and general knowledge. You will be asked to sign a permission form before each excursion. A bus fee of $5 applies if you have not paid a voluntary contribution.

Excursions to Bradshaw Primary School occur routinely and increase in frequency in the second half of the year. You provide consent for your child to attend these excursions on the enrolment forms.

Bush Preschool

Bush Preschool occurs every term. It is a wonderful opportunity to take learning outdoors. The whole day of preschool occurs in such places as the Telegraph Station, Olive Pink Gardens, Simpsons Gap and Ormiston Gorge. In conjunction with Rangers from Parks and Wildlife, children have the opportunity to learn about the environment, animals and conservation in their community. Families are always welcome to attend for the day or for a picnic lunch.