Curriculum

The curriculum at the Pittwater House Early Childhood Centre focuses on 5 learning outcomes for children 3-5 years of age (As documented in The Early Years Learning Framework For Australia):

• Literacy
  An introduction to language through the use of the Letterland programme and associated prewriting activities to develop confidence with the written word
• Numeracy
  A sound understanding of concepts, processes and strategies and to be able to apply these skills in future mathematical development
• Science and Technology
  An enriched view of themselves, society, the environment and the future and to want to investigate and learn
• Personal Development, Health and Physical Education
  The knowledge, skills and understanding needed to lead a healthy life enhanced by a specialist teacher
• Creative Practical Arts
  An enjoyment and willingness to participate in Visual Arts, Music, Drama and Dance and to understand their impact on society and culture enhanced by a specialist teacher

Aims of the Early Childhood Centre

The Pittwater Early Childhood Centre (ECC) aims to develop each child's love of learning through structured activities and guided play.

The curriculum aims to develop each child's skills and assist them to become: :

• Successful learners
• Confident and creative individuals
• Active and informed citizens

Objectives of the Early Childhood Centre

• To provide purposeful learning experiences with achievable outcomes
• To be responsive to a child's individual needs
• To enhance the child's learning experiences by connecting these to everyday life
• To develop a sense of curiosity of the world around them
• To create a happy, relaxed learning environment
• To recognise all pupil achievements
• To encourage communication with and respect for all human beings

Events

Various performers visit the Early Childhood Centre throughout the year including Healthy Harold from Life Education who informs the children about healthy living. Other events include puppet shows that are used as a tool to illustrate life skills and visits by animal/reptile handlers to teach the children about their natural environment. The children regularly participate in special events such as the Easter Concert, The Mother’s Day Lunch Performance and the much anticipated Christmas Concert.

Parents, grandparents and families are invited to attend these special activities throughout the year.

Pastoral Care

Pastoral care is the cornerstone of the Pittwater House School’s philosophy that underpins the individual care and attention given to each child attending the Early Childhood Centre.

The Pittwater House Schools' Dean of Welfare (the School Chaplain) and The Head of The Early Childhood Centre and The Head of The Junior Schools are also always available to assist with the pastoral care of a child or the extended family at any time.

The School believes young children respond best when they are given boundaries for acceptable behaviour.. Positive reinforcement of appropriate behaviour forms the foundation for this learning in the Early Childhood Centre. The personal needs of each child in the Early Childhood Centre form the basis upon which the School cares for each individual. The nurturing nature of the Centre is the key to its success as a provider of high quality care to young children aged between 3 and 5.

PE

The children attending the Early Childhood Centre (ECC) have their own indoor and outdoor play areas which are well equipped with gross motor equipment for supervised play. Pupils attending the ECC also have access to all facilities on the Pittwater House campus including the Junior School playground.

A gross motor and skills program is offered by specialist PE teachers and incorporates games and co-ordination activities on a regular weekly basis.