YMCA Gungahlin Early Learning Centre

At YMCA Early Learning Centre Gungahlin, we believe in Bowlby’s theory of attachment, building secure, high quality relationships with children. We see these relationships as key to children’s learning and holistic development in becoming capable and confident learners. This alongside high quality pedagogical practices which are underpinned by theory, research and individual children’s abilities and learning styles provide children with the tools for lifelong learning. Building relationships and working in collaboration with families is also beneficial to children’s learning and development.

As advocates for children’s rights, we strongly believe children have the right to be treated with dignity and respect and to have their voices heard. We allow children to ask their own questions and guide their own learning through exploration and discovery, generating many open ended possibilities.

We as educators, see ourselves as co-researchers and partners in learning alongside the children, which is derived from the Reggio Emilia values and principles. With this intent we believe children have the right to receive an educational curriculum dedicated to early childhood learning based on principles, practices and learning outcomes. We acknowledge the Early Years Learning Framework, and embed a pedagogy of play based learning throughout our curriculums and daily practice.