Philosophy

Coota Gulla Preschool Philosophy – 2025

At Coota Gulla Preschool, we celebrate the unique identities of each child and honour the rich heritage of the Cabrogal people of the Dharug nation. We are committed to embedding Indigenous perspectives throughout our curriculum, guided by the values of byala (let’s talk), ngarala (let’s listen), and tia tila (let’s learn). Our philosophy is centred around creating a safe, inclusive, and engaging environment where children can thrive.

Child-centred approach

We believe that preschool is a crucial stage in a child's development, laying the foundation for lifelong learning. Each child is a capable and confident explorer, equipped with their own interests and strengths. Our play-based learning approach encourages children to engage with their environment, fostering curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking. By listening to children’s voices and following their interests, we provide meaningful experiences that promote exploration and discovery.

Holistic development

Our curriculum addresses the holistic development of children—social, emotional, cognitive, and physical. We understand that strong emotional and social foundations are essential for lifelong success. Through collaborative play, children learn to communicate, share, and build relationships, developing empathy and resilience. We create opportunities for children to take risks in a supportive environment, enhancing their confidence and independence.

Community and family engagement

We view families as partners in education, recognising the importance of open communication and collaboration. Our preschool actively engages families in the learning process, fostering a sense of belonging and community. We believe that by working together, we can celebrate the rich cultural and linguistic diversity of our families, enriching our preschool environment.

The role of the environment

Inspired by the Reggio Emilia approach, we view the learning environment as the ‘third teacher.’ Our spaces are designed to be flexible, vibrant, and reflective of the children’s interests. We provide opportunities for children to connect with nature, encouraging them to care for their environment while fostering a sense of responsibility. Learning experiences extend beyond the classroom, allowing children to explore the world around them.

Embracing diversity and inclusion

At Coota Gulla Preschool, we celebrate and respect the diverse backgrounds of our children. Our curriculum incorporates various cultures and perspectives, including Aboriginal culture and language, to ensure that all children feel valued and represented. We strive to create an inclusive environment that responds to the needs of every child, supporting their individual learning styles.

Lifelong learning

We believe that instilling a love for learning in preschool sets the stage for future educational success. By fostering curiosity and encouraging children to ask questions, we help them develop critical thinking skills and a desire for exploration. Our educators are dedicated to continuous improvement, reflecting on their practices to enhance the learning experiences for all children.

Coota Gulla Preschool is committed to nurturing a supportive and enriching environment where every child can flourish. Through play-based learning, strong relationships, and a deep respect for cultural diversity, we aim to cultivate lifelong learners who are confident, capable, and connected to their community.

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