Harbard Street Kindergarten

We believe that by working together we can create an environment which encourages and enhances each child’s learning. Our program is guided by the Victorian Early Years Learning and Development Framework and emerges from the interests, passions and interactions of the children that attend. We know learning and developing can only happen when;

• A child feels safe and cared for
• A child is allowed to participate at their own level
• An environment is aesthetically pleasing
• A child is able to feel ownership over their environment
• A child feels respected
• Children and teachers work collaboratively
• A child is allowed periods of uninterrupted play and discovery
• A child is allowed to be spontaneous

As Early Childhood professionals we believe that learning in young children is promoted when families and educators work in partnership with each other. It is important that families feel that their needs are met and values respected.

At Harbard St Kindergarten we have a large indoor and outdoor space.

Our indoor space is constantly changing. Educators change the layout of the room every term to add an element of excitement. We make use of a big comfy couch for a library area. In the room we have lots of tables, chairs, rugs, mats, cushions and a bed to cater for any learning space. The program is changed every 2 weeks based on observations of the children and what they are showing interest in.

We also have a pet lizard at Harbard St Kindergarten. His name is popcorn and he loves looking at the children. In the school holidays he actually becomes grumpy when the children are not around!

Our outdoor space is just wonderful. There is a nice collaboration of natural elements and built elements. We have lots of big, beautiful, establish trees which add beautiful shade but also drop lots of leave and small sticks to add to the children’s play which encourages a lovely use of imagination. We also have a beautiful cubby house, sand pit and swing area that are permanent learning areas. We use bikes and scooters and have a basketball ring. In the hot weather we love to bring out water play. We use a big water tub as well as a water mister and a sprinkler.

Children build on their understanding about the world through their interactions with other children, adults and their environment.

The educational program is guided by: The Victorian Early Years Learning and Development Framework. (VEYLDF). Belonging, Being and Becoming: The Early Years Learning Framework For Australia.

The educational program contributes to the following outcomes for each child:

• Identity – Children will have a strong sense of identity.
• Community – Children will be connected with and contribute to their world.
• Wellbeing – Children will have a strong sense of wellbeing.
• Learning – Children will be confident and involved learners.
• Communication – Children will be effective communicators.

The Victorian Government provides funding to support children to access a high quality kindergarten program in the two years before they start school. This helps to ensure all Victorian children get the best start in life.

From 2023, the Victorian Government is making kindergarten programs free for three and four-year-old children – saving you and your family up to $2,500 per year for their program. Free Kinder is a critical component of the Victorian Government’s Best Start, Best Life reform.