The Program

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Program And School Readiness

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We believe that children learn best when they are playing and involved in experiences and activities that interest, excite and support their interests, needs and strengths.

We provide an inspiring environment for children to develop the skills and qualities needed to grow in all aspects of their lives. Preparing children for the future, we also value the “here and now” in children’s lives and allow time for children to make sense of the world as they play and enjoy being 3, 4 and 5 year olds. School readiness is not a separate program but is an integral part of our everyday program as we nurture all areas of children’s growth and development.

Through play, children learn skills in areas of numeracy, literacy and self-care and, just as importantly, they will develop the physical, social and communication skills to help them take on the challenges and opportunities that life may present. Because teachers and educators at Preschool focus on individual children’s interests, strengths and needs they foster curiosity, enthusiasm and a willingness to learn – important dispositions to be successful and confident life-long learners.

Positive relationships with children, their families and the community form the foundation of everything we do. We believe that to be ready for school, children also need ready families, ready schools and ready communities. We work collaboratively with our families, schools and other community organisations to achieve good outcomes for our children.

Five preschool children wearing hats splash around at a blue outdoor table set in a grassy area, with toy houses and a building in the background, embodying a charming scene reminiscent of Rylstone or Kandos.

Families

We recognise parents and families as the child’s first teacher and work with them to gain a shared understanding of each child, including their cultural and religious backgrounds.  Our partnership with families begins with orientation visits and regular catch-ups throughout the year. There are many opportunities for families to be involved in different ways in our Preschool.

Schools

We have strong relationships with each primary school the Kandos Rylstone region. This helps to ensure that appropriate transition plans are in place for every child, acknowledging that some children may need more support than others.  Every year, we prepare a “Transition to School Statement” for each child which is sent to the child’s school and which outlines their progress and development as well as their strengths, needs and interests.  Children and parents also contribute to the Transition to School Statement.

Communities

We recognise that the Wiradjuri people are the original owners of our land and work to raise understanding of Aboriginal culture and history through respectful connections with local Aboriginal people.  We include culturally appropriate resources in our program and Aboriginal music, art, stories, dance and symbols are part of  our everyday activities.

Our community connections are strengthened with excursions and visits from different community members such as the local fire fighters, local police officers and the local ambulance services.  We work closely with community organisations such as Mid-Western Regional Council,  Community Health, Barnardos and the Benevolent Society to support families’ and children’s health and wellbeing. 

Curriculum

All children engage in learning that promotes confident, creative individuals and successful lifelong learners. All children are active and informed members of their communities with knowledge of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander perspectives.

Our program will maximise each child’s learning and development opportunities in relation to the Early Years Learning Framework. We promote a secure, respectful environment for children, families and staff. Individual assessment and evaluation for learning, development and wellbeing will occur throughout the child’s learning journey at Rylstone Kandos Preschool.

Children With Disabilities And Additional Needs

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We believe that every child has the right to a quality early childhood education, including those with disabilities and additional needs. We work hard to ensure that each child is supported to participate and be included in the program.

We know the first five years of a child’s life are developmentally the most crucial so being aware of any additional needs your child may have, will assist in your child’s learning experiences at Preschool.

Staff work closely with families and other professionals to develop Individual Education Plans for children with disabilities and/or additional needs.

Speech Therapy

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Our staff are trained to identify children who may be experiencing difficulty with language, speech and communication.  In consultation with families, teachers may refer these children to a speech Therapist.

Rylstone Kandos Preschool works closely with Speech Therapist from our community.

Educators are trained to implement strategies in their daily program and routines that support children’s language, speech and communication.

Family Health Nurse

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Rylstone Kandos Preschool works closely with Rylstone health one, Child and Family Nurse in providing Immunisations and child health checks for children (0-5yrs)