The philosophy that drives Jenny’s Early Learning Centre Epsom is that learning is a part of the fun.  Children are encouraged to explore their own interests while they learn.

The key values are as follows:

1) Educators 

Consistency of care is paramount, and priority is given to nurturing the relationships between educators and children. Many of the passionate educators have been with the centre since it opened. Educators help children develop the skills of independence, confidence, responsibility and connection with others.

2) Community 

Local relationships are a key focus for Jenny’s Early Learning Centre Epsom, from primary schools, junior sporting clubs, the country fire authority, to the suppliers for the kitchen. The centre sees these connections as a way to facilitate a sense of belonging and identity for the children, as well as being a way to develop their social skills.

3) Children 

A child is broadly connected to their family, community, culture and place, with the interactions between each providing a sense of self. Children develop and learn through these connections, with family being the first and most influential educators. The centre understands that children learn through play and that they find their own sense of identity and understanding of the world at their own pace.

4) Families 

To ensure the best possible outcomes for children, Jenny’s Early Learning Centre Epsom believes that families and educators need to be working closely together. The educators welcome input from families to help guide the curriculum based on each child’s interests and family heritage. The centre is a welcoming and respectful environment which teaches children how to work with others and to value their own independence.

6 weeks to 18 months

The program reflects a baby’s need to develop caring loving bonds with adults. The centre provides consistent educators in a nurturing, caring environment. Sensory activities are enjoyed, in order for children to get to know their abilities, likes and dislikes.

Children are cared for, nurtured and kept safe, while also being challenged to find new ways to learn. The centre’s program is based on their ‘Play – Explore – Learn’ philosophy, which helps children feel challenged and engaged with learning.

PLAY

• Gross motor skills program: organised physical activities such as ball games, parachutes, running, jumping, and other activities that help develop coordination. Regular sports program to help build skills in team sports.
• Self-directed play: helps children form friendships, develop imagination and try out new ideas. The centre is filled with natural light, and the indoor and outdoor spaces are open for exploration.
• Outdoor play spaces: all designed to suit each age group. Children can get their hands dirty in the veggie patch, explore the sensory garden, climb on the equipment, and play imaginary games with their friends.

EXPLORE

• Regular excursions and incursions: the centre is well connected with the community, taking part in regular walks to parks and nature reserves.
• Cottage garden: children are encouraged to get involved with planting seeds and seedlings, tending to the plants, and helping to pick them for the centre chef to use. They also learn about water conservation and sustainability.

LEARN 

• Quirky Tales: an interactive storytelling program, which involves singing, dancing, stories, sign language and lots of fun.
• Technology: children can explore new ideas, problem-solve, and work together to find solutions. Some of the technology offered includes computers and iPads, educational apps and games to develop literacy and numeracy skills, as well as digital cameras.

Jenny’s Early Learning Centre Epsom supports local business by sourcing their ingredients from suppliers in the area, using organic produce where possible.

The in-house chef uses the local produce to create high quality meals and snacks for the children, taking into account any food intolerances, allergies or cultural considerations. Menus are prepared in conjunction with the centre’s own paediatric dietician.

The children are given the chance to help with planting and harvesting produce from the veggie garden, as part of the ‘seed to plate’ program.  The fruits, vegetables and herbs are then used by the chef to create the food for the centre.