Kindergarten

Public Commitment to Child Safety:

Athol Road Primary School Kindergarten has a zero-tolerance policy to child abuse and racism.

As a child safe organisation we comply with the Child Safe Standards and Reportable Conduct Scheme.

We aim to create a child-safe and child-friendly environment where all children are encouraged to express themselves, feel safe and have fun.

Athol Road Primary School Kindergarten

Statement of Philosophy

Athol Road Primary School Kindergarten is committed to the pursuit of continuous improvement in order to provide quality services which reflects the Principles, Practices and Learning Outcomes identified in the Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF). We believe that the kindergarten experience is a preparation for life. Children are supported in establishing a positive attitude to learning through a play based program. Experiencing success in a challenging and secure environment builds self-esteem and confidence.

Our Early Years’ service operates under the following beliefs:

• All children, regardless of their race, gender identity, culture, religion or ability, have the right to expect and demand equal access to a safe and stimulating environment.
• Self-esteem and trust are promoted by providing an inclusive environment where children, educators, caregivers and management interact with each other in a positive and supportive manner.
• Parents are recognised as the first teachers of their children, and as such, are valued as partners in their child’s kindergarten learning experience.
• Every child has the potential to be a successful learner.
• Each child is an individual with their own specific strengths and interests which need to be acknowledged and supported.
• Learning through free play and intentional teaching, within an open ended environment, creates the foundation of the kindergarten program.
• The opportunity to acquire, practice and consolidate new skills, in a supportive environment is vital.
• The Bunurong people are the traditional owners of the land on which the kindergarten is located and therefore, should be acknowledged and represented within the kindergarten program.
• Each child has the right to be safe and as such, the kindergarten has zero tolerance of child abuse.
• Each child’s sense of agency is promoted within the kindergarten. Children are empowered to make decisions regarding matters that are important to them.
• We have a responsibility to reduce our impact on the environment and teach children about sustainability, environmental awareness and respect for the planet.
• Collaborative partnerships with other professionals are imperative in supporting the needs of all children and families.
• Kindergarten staff recognise their position as lifelong learners and therefor commit to engaging in ongoing professional learning and critical reflection.

The kindergarten’s richly diverse multicultural community works collaboratively with the school, on whose site it is located, to create a well-resourced, learning environment which caters for the needs of each individual and acknowledges and celebrates achievements.

Kindergarten to School Connections:

Click here to view the Kindergarten to School Connection resource.

4 Year-Old Kindergarten:

Enrolments are managed through the City of Greater Dandenong Central Enrolment System.

3 Year-Old Kindergarten:

Enrolments are managed through the City of Greater Dandenong Central Enrolment System.