our program
Learning Through Play
Full time Program
Our program is both evidence and play based learning, guided by our philosophy, pedagogy, the Early Years Learning Framework, and the National Quality Standards.
At St. Catherine’s, our aim is to provide children with high quality early childhood education to give them the best chance to develop to their fullest potential in their formative years.
Our programs are designed to stimulate physical, intellectual, social and emotional development and have a strong emphasis on learning through play.
We cater for children’s individual abilities, interests and needs providing opportunities for learning through emergent intentional teaching.
We offer experiences to increase children’s awareness and appreciation of different cultures and to foster pride in the cultural heritage of both themselves and others.
Our highly specialised curriculum options include:
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music
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perceptual motor program
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computer education
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art
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road safety
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excursions and incursions, including visiting performing artists.
At St. Catherine’s, children are encouraged to observe, question, experiment and explore in order to learn and grow. The range of activities on offer encourages self-development, independence and confidence to ensure your child has the best start in life.
Kindergarten Program
Kindergarten is an important foundation for your child's education.
St. Catherine’s offers a full day 4-year-old kindergarten program, 5 days a week. A qualified kindergarten teacher will plan and implement a challenging educational program aimed at fostering the development of each child based on their individual needs and interests.
Activities will include:
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painting, drawing
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collages, pasting
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clay moulding
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sand and water play
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puzzles
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books
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block-building, construction activities
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movement and dance
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sensory experiences
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science
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story/discussion time
Children’s imaginations will be further stimulated by dramatic play, dress ups and puppetry.
The program will also extend into topics of social value including road safety, healthy eating, sun smart, dental health, people in the community etc. It is also our aim to build an interest in literacy and maths preparing our 4 year old children for the transition to school.
St. Catherine’s has a very close relationship with St. Michael's Catholic school as well as North Melbourne Primary school. We visit both schools and have been invited to spend time with the Preps focusing on group time Music and Movement.