Early Childhood

Image of the Child

At BPCS we acknowledge the unique and important phase of life that is childhood. It should be a time for curiosity, exploration and discovery. Instead of hurrying children through this stage, we seek to provide them with the opportunity and time to develop their emotional intelligence and a love of learning in the present, rather than viewing education as purely preparation for the future.

Sense of Belonging

For some children, coming to school may be their first experience of venturing outside the family unit. As such the BPCS Early Childhood programs seek to provide a gentle transition for children from the home into a group setting. Our priority is to ensure that each child feels safe, secure and supported.

The Teaching Teams work carefully and intentionally towards establishing trusting and mutually respectful relationships with the children, families and within the group as a whole. As children develop a sense of belonging to a wider community they build a basis for an understanding of their connection to the world around them.

Environment – 100 Languages of Learning

BPCS Early Childhood classrooms are carefully prepared to be warm, inviting and beautiful spaces. They are designed to evoke curiosity, wonder, experimentation and exploration. Each day has a pattern and predictable rhythm that children become familiar with. This supports the development of their self-regulation skills within the environment. We intentionally provide learning experiences that encourage the children to work together building the skills required for teamwork.

As our world becomes increasingly complex, BPCS recognises the need to acquire diverse skills that broaden ways of building knowledge and communication. As well as the important foundations of literacy and numeracy, our programs are designed to provide the children with a range of learning experiences and many ways in which to engage. The Teaching Teams combine Visual Arts, Dance, Music and Drama with the support of the Arts Team, to not only give depth and breadth to these learning experiences, but to foster an appreciation for the Arts.

At BPCS, we seek to not only bring nature into the classroom but to also use the outdoors as the classroom. From the beautiful surrounds of Galup (Lake Monger) to the purpose designed outdoor spaces, including a nature playground and kitchen garden, there are many places in which the Teaching Teams can provide opportunities for children to learn through nature and build a love for the natural world.

If your child is not yet three years old, you may be interested to read about our Wilderness Playgroup which is suitable for children aged 18 – 36 months.

BPCS Handbook

More information regarding the structure of our Early Childhood program can be found in the 2022 BPCS HANDBOOK.