Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF)
The staff at the Centre formulate a program from their knowledge and observations of children in their care. Australia’s first national Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF) is used as our framework. This is a play-based curriculum based around a vision for children’s learning ‘Belonging, Being and Becoming’.
There are five learning outcomes and they are:
- Children have a strong sense of identity
- Children are connected with and contribute to their world
- Children have a strong sense of wellbeing
- Children are confident and involved learners
- Children are effective communicators
Research has linked play to fostering creativity and imagination, valued traits that are vital in the modern world. Using imagination, children can find solutions to a variety of problems they encounter. Fostering imagination is fundamental to developing curiosity and raising a generation of creative problem solvers. Play to a child is purposeful so they can learn and grow.
The ability to develop positive relationships has also been linked to play-based learning. As children play with each other, they learn to get along with one another, use words to communicate their needs and co-operate and resolve conflicts.
Emotional competence and empathy are developed through play as children learn about the feelings, emotions and motivations of others. It is essential to provide opportunities for young children to engage in dramatised play to demonstrate ways of caring and showing empathy.
Queensland Government Approved Kindergarten Program
Our Centre is a Queensland Government Approved Kindergarten Program Provider and offers two kindergarten programs that meets the funding requirements of:
- Delivery by a qualified early childhood teacher
- Is undertaken for a minimum 15 hours (2 days) a week, 40 weeks per annum for children in the year prior to Prep
- Aligns with the EYLF and Queensland Kindergarten Learning Guidelines
- Is funded by the Queensland Government.
The Kindergarten Program runs from 7:30am to 3:30pm each day for a minimum of 40 weeks per annum.
At IELC, we work alongside Prep teachers at Immanuel Lutheran College meaning staff at the Centre have an excellent understanding of the needs of each child as they begin their transition to Prep.
A number of families choose to attend Immanuel Lutheran College following their years at the IELC. However, the IELC accepts applications from all local families regardless of which school they choose to enrol in.
