Our Philosophy
Championing Children's Rights and Lifelong Learning
At Skye Children's Co-Operative, we firmly believe in advocating the rights of every young child and supporting their lifelong learning journey. We recognise children as competent and capable individuals who actively construct their own learning within a dynamic learning environment. By involving them as decision-makers and respecting their agency, we aim to empower children to make choices, express their interests, and contribute to the decision-making processes within our community. We provide an environment that stimulates, challenges, and connects with each child's curiosity, reflecting their interests, culture, and voice. We value and respect children's decisions about their own learning, development, and well-being within an evolving educational environment.
Our vision
Every young child and their community is thriving, achieving, and learning.
Our Purpose
To champion the right of each child and support a foundation of lifelong learning, retain, and grow meaningful partnerships with a sustainable, culturally rich community.
Dynamic and Holistic
Each child's learning, development, and well-being are dynamic, complex, holistic, and significant. Our educational programs are thoughtfully designed to incorporate the latest research findings, the evolving pedagogy and experience of our educators, and their continuous professional development. With a central emphasis on learning through play and discovery, we strive to create an enriching environment for all children . We believe that children learn best when their experiences are meaningful and relevant to their lives. We acknowledge the integration of learning with the environment, considering both constructed and natural spaces as seamless learning environments for children. By recognising the significance of positive relationships and nurturing warm, respectful, and trusting connections, we promote a sense of belonging and security to ensure each child’s safety so each child can meet their own potential and learning outcomes.
The Land:
We are committed to embedding sustainability principles throughout our curriculum and interactions. Our aim is to instil an appreciation for the environment and nurture a sense of protection for it. We actively incorporate sustainability practices into our pedagogy, teaching children about the importance of caring for the Land and its resources. Through nature play programs and outdoor experiences, we provide unique learning opportunities within the natural environment, fostering a deep connection with nature. By cultivating a deep respect for Australia's Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, specifically the Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung people, who are the custodians of the land on which we work and play, we maintain an environment that reflects these values and respects the land, waterways, fauna, flora, and people.
Partnerships and Inclusivity
We value and nurture partnerships with families, the community. Families are integral partners in our shared child-centred, reflective, and respectful practice. We recognise families as children’s most influential educators and the importance of open communication and collaboration to ensure the best outcomes for children. We actively engage with local resources, seek partnerships, and encourage active participation from families and the indigenous community to enrich children's learning experiences. We celebrate and embrace diversity in all its forms, including cultural, linguistic, socio-economic, gender factors and ability differences. Our commitment extends to knowing and understanding each child's identity, abilities, interests, culture, and background. We actively promote anti-bias practices, foster inclusive environments, and encourage children to develop a strong appreciation for diversity. By recognising and appreciating the richness and uniqueness that each individual and group brings, we aim to create a vibrant and tolerant community.
Relationships and Wellbeing
We acknowledge the significance of positive relationships in promoting a sense of belonging and security for children. We prioritise building warm, respectful, and trusting relationships with each child and their family. We create a safe and supportive environment where children can explore, connect, and develop a strong sense of identity. We believe that love and respect are fundamental values that should be cultivated in all interactions. We foster an atmosphere of empathy, kindness, and understanding, where children learn to care for themselves, others, and the environment. We encourage educators to model and promote respectful communication and behaviour. We emphasise open, transparent, and respectful communication.
Pedagogy
Our pedagogy is built upon scaffolding and a multimodal teaching approach, catering to diverse learning styles. We offer a curriculum that covers various areas, including sustainability and nature, language and literacy, physical health and movement, expressive art and design, family and community, identity, culture & spirit, mental health & wellbeing, and STEM. This holistic approach ensures that every child can effectively engage and learn, equipping them with the necessary skills for both their present and future in an ever-evolving society. Fostering children's curiosity, encouraging them to inquire, investigate, and explore their surroundings. We understand that play enriches all aspects of children's development and play-based learning serves as a cornerstone of our pedagogy, providing abundant opportunities for imaginative play, exploration, problem-solving, and creativity.
Our team of dedicated and experienced educators and teachers are responsive and attuned to children's cues, interests, and ideas. We hold high expectations for our adults, and children alike. We remain abreast of current research, evolving our understandings, and valuing the voices of children. We actively reflect on our practices, seek feedback, and participate in continuous professional development. This reflective approach empowers us to refine our practice, become more knowledgeable, and continually enhance the education and care at Skye Children’s Cooperative.