Learning at Kindergarten
Our Program
At Salisbury Kindergarten, our program is shaped by trusted frameworks and approaches that place children’s learning, wellbeing, and sense of belonging at its core. The Early Years Learning Framework v2.0 (EYLF) guides us in designing play-based experiences that spark curiosity, exploration, and creativity. Inspired by the Reggio Emilia philosophy, children’s voices, questions, and ideas shape the direction of learning, creating a program that is dynamic, collaborative, and meaningful. The Marte Meo Method further enriches our program by supporting positive, responsive interactions that build children’s confidence, resilience, and relationships.
Art, music, and movement are integral to our program. Art experiences allow children to express ideas, experiment with materials, and engage in process-based learning that develops fine motor skills, creativity, and problem-solving. Children participate in activities such as collaborative art pieces, sensory art experiences, clay modelling, and natural material exploration. Music and movement encourage children to express themselves, develop coordination, enhance creativity, and enjoy shared experiences that support both physical and emotional wellbeing.
Community engagement is an important part of our program. We regularly go on neighbourhood walks and explore places such as the library and local shops, helping children connect their learning to the wider world. We also invite community members, families, and cultural representatives to share their knowledge, skills, and stories, enriching learning through authentic connections. These experiences foster children’s sense of belonging, respect, and responsibility, while nurturing curiosity about the people and places around them.
Together, these influences guide us in offering a program that is joyful, respectful, and responsive—one where children are active participants in their own learning, families are valued partners, and the community is embraced as part of the learning journey.
Wellbeing
We recognise that children’s learning and development are deeply connected to their holistic wellbeing. Supporting physical wellbeing through active play, healthy routines, nutritious eating, and outdoor exploration helps children develop strength, coordination, and confidence in their bodies. We promote healthy eating habits by encouraging children to make positive food choices and by working in partnership with families to support balanced, nourishing diets. Equally important is nurturing children’s emotional wellbeing by fostering secure, trusting relationships, building resilience, and encouraging self-expression. When children feel safe, healthy, and connected, they are more open to curiosity, creativity, and learning. By attending to the whole child—physically, emotionally, socially, and cognitively—we create an environment where every child can flourish.
Relationships
We believe meaningful relationships are the foundation for all learning and development. Strong, respectful connections between children, educators, and families create a sense of trust, belonging, and security, allowing children to feel confident to explore, take risks, and express themselves. Guided by the Marte Meo Method, educators focus on tuning into children’s strengths, following their initiatives, and responding with encouragement that builds self-esteem and resilience. By working in genuine partnership with families, we ensure that each child’s identity, culture, and experiences are valued and supported. These relationships not only nurture children’s wellbeing but also foster a collaborative community where everyone’s voice is heard and respected.