Our Programs

Playgroup

We offer two facilitated playgroups for children aged 0 to 5 years old.
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3 Year Old Kindergarten

We offer two 3 Year Old Kinder groups at Burch Memorial Preschool.
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4 Year Old Kindergarten

We offer two 4 Year Old Kinder groups at Burch Memorial Preschool.
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Activity Group

We offer Afternoon Activity Groups suitable for ages 3-5.
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Our Teaching Philosophy

At Burch Memorial Preschool, we aim to always provide a happy, safe, emotionally and socially enriching environment that nurtures the development of the whole child. Our curriculum is based on sound principles of child development and education and encompasses all of the interactions, routines, planned and spontaneous experiences and activities that occur on a day-to-day basis. The centre curriculum follows the Victorian Early Years Learning and Development Framework (VEYLDF), which allows for flexibility to accommodate each child’s individual interests, differences and stages of development.

We believe in the VEYLDF learning outcomes that: 

• Children have a strong sense of identity (Identity)
• Children are connected with and contribute to their world (Community)
• Children have a strong sense of wellbeing (Wellbeing)
• Children are confident and involved learners (Learning)
• Children are effective communicators (Communication)

The practice principles of the VEYLDF underpin our pedagogy and are used to help us achieve the
learning outcomes. We aim to provide:

• Family-centered practice
• Partnerships with professionals
• High expectations for every child
• Equity and diversity
• Respectful relationships and responsive engagement
• Integrated teaching and learning approaches
• Assessment for learning and development 
• Reflective practice
  

Our welcoming, nurturing and supportive atmosphere promotes a sense of belonging in the children, families and staff that share our community. When children’s experiences of relationships and places are positive, they develop an understanding of themselves as significant and respected. We aim to provide an environment that is inclusive and recognizes, celebrates and builds on the diverse cultural backgrounds, languages, abilities and special needs of all children and their families. We value and respect families and work together to develop and maintain positive relationships and to share the experiences that shape children’s learning and development, fostering their confidence, a sense of belonging and a love of learning.

We view creative play as the best medium for learning. Creativity is always encouraged and we aim to always provide a program that incorporates a balance of open-ended learning experiences and intentional teaching that takes into account the various ways children learn. Our curriculum seeks to build a connection with and a sense of wonder in regards to nature and concern for present and future sustainability through growing plants, using tank water, composting, minimizing waste and using/recycling materials thoughtfully.

Staff ensure that their interactions with the children and their families are at all times ethical and of consistent high quality. The experience of responsive, respectful interactions with others strengthens a child’s interest and skills as they become active participants in their community. Staff have a strong commitment to constantly challenge and update their skills and knowledge through ongoing professional development. We value a strong team approach showing trust, respect and support for each other.