The Early Learning Centre exceeds national standards
Yarra Valley Grammar’s Early Learning Centre has been rated Exceeding National Quality Standard under the National Quality Framework by the Victorian Department of Education and Training.
The National Quality Standard (NQS) sets a national benchmark for the quality of children’s education and care services across Australia. Services are assessed against the NQS and receive a rating for each of the seven quality areas of the NQS, plus an overall rating.
A rating of Exceeding NQS is given to services that go above and beyond the requirements in at least four of the seven quality services. The ELC was deemed Exceeding in all seven areas.
Our educational programs were assessed as being exceptional. The quality of relationships between the teachers and each child lays the foundation for integrating their interests and abilities into planned and spontaneous learning experiences. The depth of our educators’ understanding of the curriculum and principles assures that the children are acknowledged as involved learners and that quality educational experiences are consistently offered.
The ELC teachers collaborate with our Junior School colleagues who enrich the learning outcomes for the children through specialist classes in Music, Physical Education; including a swimming program and weekly visits to the School library. These programs contribute to a continuum of learning and skill development and are specifically offered to advance school readiness and a seamless transition to school.
“Children’s literacy, numeracy, communication and decision making skills flourished as they participated in story time and book borrowing in the Library, ball handling skills during Physical Education and they drew on these experiences to guide their own play and learning.” (Assessment and Rating Report)
In regards to our onsite Bush program, where children can spend long uninterrupted times engaged in play and learning in a natural bush setting, it was reported that learning through play and discovery was consistently evident. This space provides flexibility and opportunities to extend every child’s participation where environmental awareness, creativity and project work is fostered.
The ELC teachers ensure that learning is visible, reflected on and evaluated for each child. The report noted that children’s learning and development was assessed and presented to our families in informative ways. The children’s joy of learning and participation in a journey of wonder nurtures their curiosity and this is documented and evaluated in their portfolios, individual learning plans and beautifully presented on walls and in cabinets in the hallway and classrooms. Families and the community are encouraged to view and enjoy the displays together.
“The individuality of every child was recognised and the value of partnerships with each family contributed to quality learning and developmental outcomes for children.” (Assessment and Rating Report)
The Assessment report acknowledged the dedication of our teaching team, highlighting their expertise and commitment to professional development to build on their capacity to deliver high quality programs. Our educators make it a priority to ensure that teaching targets important core skills, responds to current research and that all decisions made in relation to the education of children are informed by critical reflection.
“A balance of having fun with children and merging intentional teaching practices was a characteristic common to educators. Scope for children to consistently explore and test ideas, extend roles and communicate their learning in meaningful ways was embedded across all classrooms.” (Assessment and Rating Report)
Our Exceeding rating assessed against national benchmark qualities is testimony to the excellent programs, facilities and education we offer at Yarra Valley Grammar. Our skilled and passionate educators share a vision and approach to early childhood teaching and foster a holistic approach to curriculum decision making for every child.
“Each child was valued as a unique, capable and competent individual and supported with a learning and developmental pathway tailored to develop their confidence as learners and sense of wellbeing within their community” (Assessment and Rating Report)
Mrs Nicky Callow
Director of Early Learning Centre
Yarra Valley Grammar
