Philosophy of service

We acknowledge the Gadigal, Bidjigal, and Birrabirragal Peoples who traditionally cared for the land that we learn and play on. We promise to respect this land and their Elders past, present and emerging.

We aim to provide an environment that is supportive, stimulating, and welcoming to community members of all backgrounds and identities.

Children are integral contributors and stakeholders in our centre community. We value children’s capacity to show respect and kindness for each other and aim to help them build on these strengths and develop the social and emotional skills needed to sustain rich, enjoyable relationships. To embed this learning in all aspects of children’s experience of the centre, we encourage children of all age groups, abilities and backgrounds to make shared use of all indoor and outdoor spaces and resources.

The My Time, Our Place Framework guides us in all of our efforts to provide new experiences that broaden children’s exploration of the world and the broader community. We Strive to inspire responsibility for the natural environment and sustainability.

Providing children with opportunities for self-directed play is a priority at WCOOSC. Time after school is children’s time to rest, play, and develop their independence and sense of competence. At all times children have the opportunity to opt-in to planned or spontaneous activities, and provided with resources, adult support and peer support to pursue their own interests. By joining in with children’s chosen play experiences, our educators inspire and challenge children to build on a broad range skills and dispositions while respecting children’s rights to be heard and involved in decision making around planning and programming.

We value family partnerships and have an open-door policy. Parents are the experts in their children. Their deep knowledge of the needs, strengths, and interests of their children informs the core of our approach to behaviour management, inclusion, and programming. We strive to build a mutually supportive relationship with school staff and other support services, and ensure that children’s wellbeing needs are consistently met at home, at the centre, and at school.

All educators are expected to be positive role models. Diversity in our educators’ skills and strengths provides a richer and more welcoming environment for our children. By recognising educators strengths and encouraging them to actively develop them alongside the kids we aim to make WCOOSC a rewarding place for everyone to work and play. Professional development opportunities should be provided regularly for all staff, and reflect the principles of the National Quality Standards, as well as the needs of the centre identified by staff at all levels.