Our Programs

Essex Heights Juniors offers:

  • Play based learning programs
  • Portfolio method of documentation
  • Indoor / Outdoor Programs
  • Programs that are guided by the Victorian Early Years Learning and Development Framework

The children’s programs are guided by the Centre’s Philosophy and philosophy statements providing a balance of care and education. The centre has also embraced The Early Years Learning & Development Framework established by the government to guide early childhood programs. It describes the principles, practice and outcomes essential to support and enhance young children’s learning from birth to five years of age, as well as their transition to school.  The Framework has a strong emphasis on play-based learning, which fits in with our philosophy, as play is the best vehicle for young children’s learning providing the most appropriate stimulus for brain development. 

Each day the staff plan a program of activities and experiences which are designed to stimulate children’s interests and foster their development through observations and discussions with children on their interests, family input, staff observations, spontaneous experiences and special events.

Children are encouraged to make choices when choosing activities they would like to participate in, with staff encouraging and guiding the children in their decisions to ensure development is achieved in all areas.

The programs are designed to provide a balance of children’s needs for active and passive play, indoor/ outdoor play as well as group and individual experiences.

The written program plans are on display in all of the room for all to view and families are encouraged to participate in our centre programs, make comments or suggestions about experiences and activities or feel free to discuss these with the room leaders or Centre Director. 

Pre-Prep Program

We offer a pre-prep program under the direction of a qualified Early Childhood Teacher for children who will be attending primary school the following year. The Director, having taught at the primary level, will support the Early Childhood Teacher in providing extended activities that further prepares the children for their first school year. This valuable program is in operation five days per week.