Welcome to Mayfield Nature Kindergarten ….. Natural Childhood ….. Precious Memories
We hope you enjoy reading all about our philosophy for our unique and special place!
Early childhood is the foundation for lifelong learning.
We believe children are competent and capable learners with their own knowledge of the world around them. Therefore, we embrace a play-based curriculum, based upon the principles and outcomes outlined in the Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF), that provides children with freedom of choice. We support children to develop at their own pace, whilst encouraging children to share thoughts and ideas, collaborate, explore, experiment, imagine and problem solve. Our programs reflect planned and spontaneous experiences that are purposeful and meaningful.
Facilitating a lifelong connection with our land, nature and animals.
We foster an appreciation of the natural environment and deepen each child’s sense of wonder, belonging, love and interconnectedness to the land, nature and animals. In our environment’s children are given the flexibility to flow between the indoors, outdoors and beyond. The children are supported to develop lifelong, positive and proactive practices towards caring for the environment and a sustainable future. Our environments encourage children’s active engagement, natural curiosity, and risk taking.
Positive / nurturing relationships set the foundations for a positive sense of belonging, being and becoming for children and their families.
Our families, children and community inspire us in identifying our core values which are kindness, compassion, safety, happiness, respect, nurturing and friendships which help to provide high quality care and education. To strive to build a nurturing and respectful, positive and warm relationship with the children to enhance their sense of belonging, being and becoming. We will develop positive relationships with families and work on building a partnership based on mutual trust and a high level of open communication. Decisions will be made together with the families to ensure the children are learning to their best ability. This will help to guide and support families in their role and achieve the best outcomes for children.
Community involvement in all aspects of our program
We strive to utilise community resources effectively to enhance the growth and development of the children, families and staff. Our respect of the varied and diverse cultures within our community enables us to deepen our connection and understanding which is then embedded in our daily program. We contribute to our wider community to assist the children in achieving a sense of being, belonging & becoming.
Home away from home
Our spaces are calm, nurturing and supportive, and allow the child to feel safe and secure in a home away from home environment. Positive communication, respect, teamwork and collaboration form the foundation of who we are. As a team we are guided professionally by the Early Childhood Australia Code of Ethics. We promote and value ongoing professional development and learning and reflective practice.
Cultivating a deep respect for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander histories and cultures.
Mayfield Nature Kindergarten was formed on the lands of the Yuggera and Ugarapul peoples. We acknowledge Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander people as the traditional custodians of this country and their connection to the land, water and community in which we operate. We hold hands and walk together into tomorrow as we promise to care for this land. Pay our respect to them, their cultures and customs both past and present.