At St Francis Xavier, we believe that all children have the right to learn in a safe and nurturing environment, where their capabilities are recognised and strengthened. Our educational philosophy is based on developmental learning, inclusivity and the Catholic ethos.
We believe:
Learning & Teaching
Our early childhood curriculum and pedagogy is based on 100 years of research that children learn best through play-based experiences that are meaningful and will continue to build each child’s skills and understandings. Through our curriculum planning, we give our children every opportunity to achieve their best by having realistic expectations that are challenging and allow children to reach their full potential.
All early years teachers, (Pre-Kindy to Year 2) operate within the pedagogy of the Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF). The Principles and Practises set out in this document inform all aspects of our teaching and learning, assisting us to meet the National Quality Standards for early years education.
In teaching within the EYLF pedagogy, we believe that all learning should be holistic and active, providing children with opportunities to be creative and think critically. Learning is integrated and interconnected, therefore, our classroom environments, routines and planning allow for flexibility. Effective teaching and learning in our early years’ classrooms involves the following strategies daily:
The program is offered by an experienced Early Childhood teacher to children who have turned 3 and is held on Mondays and Fridays of the school term. The program is grounded in Early Childhood Education beliefs and practices immersed in a Catholic environment.
Offering 3 full days from Tuesday – Thursday, our Kindergarten program focuses on the balanced development of each child; we aim to foster the social, emotional, spiritual and physical growth of each child as well as to develop their academic talents.
Pre-Primary students attend 5 days a week. The learning programs continue to build upon foundations in literacy and numeracy introduced in Kindergarten whilst enabling students to develop a sense of self.
As an Early Childhood centre, we believe that it is through play that children learn best and so they are given opportunities to learn basic skills and concepts, social skills and values, and to develop friendships through activities that are designed in accordance with the Early Years Learning Framework. The emphasis is on developing social skills and a positive self-image through investigating, exploring, thinking and communicating.