At First Steps, we acknowledge the rights and best interests of the child are paramount so we try to provide a welcoming, secure atmosphere where each member of our community is valued, respected and important regardless of ability, gender, race or religion or will to fill.
We acknowledge that parents/carers and families play the primary role in the nurturing of each child. We endeavour to create reciprocal relationships with our families by striving to create an environment of trust and confidence. Each child’s individuality is recognised and nurtured and each family is supported and encouraged to participate in the development of their child during their time at First Steps.
We acknowledge and celebrate the diversity of cultures that make up our community. Equity, inclusion, diversity and individual cup profiles underpin all programming and activities in our Centre. Parents/carers are encouraged to share the culture of their family with the children and staff at our centre so that they develop a sense of belonging within our community.
We value the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture in our centre and incorporate these cultures into our everyday learning. We recognise and acknowledge the Wadjadburra Yidinji tribe, the traditional owners and custodians of the lands in which our centre is located.
We commit to providing an environment where continuity of learning from room to room is evident and calm. Positive transitions empower children to become confident, develop a strong sense of identity, and well-being and become effect communicators and cup fillers.
As Early Childhood educators, we believe that play is the best medium for learning. We understand that play provides opportunities for children to learn as they discover, create, improvise, and imagine. We endeavour to create learning environments where children can ask questions, solve problems and engage in critical thinking. We take a holistic approach to teaching and learning by recognising the connectedness of mind, body and spirit, and by creating an environment where children feel secure and comfortable to fill their cups.
We will endeavour to assist children on a pathway to success and prosperity by setting high expectations, treating all children equally and fairly. We understand that children are successful, competent and capable learners so we will endeavour to instill in children knowledge, skills and qualities of character that will enable them to cope in a rapidly changing world, connect with and contribute to their world and sustain them throughout life.
We acknowledge that each child is unique, they have unique cup profiles and will grow and develop at their own rate and in their own way. We strive to provide opportunities and environments that foster this growth which are inclusive of children with additional needs.
As professionals, we will endeavour to work as a team for the overall well-being and happiness of the children and parents/carers of the centre. We will continually reflect on our practices, assess children’s learning and keep up-to-date with the latest research on best practices in childcare.
We recognise the importance of being environmentally conscious and will continue to inspire this in young children so they can participate in sustainable practices for their future.
