Talking with Kim Cooke , Director of the Little Yuin Aboriginal Preschool she told The Beagle "We’re a not-for-profit, community-based preschool, located in the beautiful Wallaga Lake Community.
"With its views of the lake and the bush, the outdoor space at Little Yuin is a children’s paradise. It includes a large swing, a substantial vegetable garden (with lots of strawberries the children love), a flower garden, large trampoline, sandpit, mud kitchen and a solar powered rock riverbed. This year we will continue to enhance the outdoor environment with the purchase of additional equipment and resources.
"During the previous 2 years we have received grants and community donations that have enabled us to upgrade the indoor environment and purchase educational resources. These include internal painting, new carpet, flooring, and an upgrade to the children’s bathroom. We also had a local indigenous Artist paint a beautiful interactive sensory pathway cultural mural under the veranda area.
"Our play-based learning and educational programs are governed by the ‘Early Years Learning Framework’ and delivered by highly experienced and qualified educators. We offer a balanced holistic curriculum and integrate cultural learning and sustainability practises into the daily program. Building language, literacy and numeracy skills are explored through story, music, movement and creative arts to give children the best start as they prepare for, and transition into school.
Ms Cooke said "We are a small pre-school and this allows us to provide a variety of educational programs matched to the individual needs of children. Children at the preschool have strong voice in the daily program which helps to develop independence, care and responsibility.
"We acknowledge cultural days and other key celebrations that include changes in the seasons, Easter, Aboriginal Children’s Day, Harmony day and offer a range of incursions and excursions to support children’s sense of belonging to their local and wider community.
To support transition from home to preschool, we also offer:
· Free Bus transport to and from the centre (Little Yuin Preschool Bus)
· Take home books and educational resources
· Affordable FEES, and,
· A healthy breakfast, fresh fruit and juice is provided every day.
"We welcome children of all backgrounds and are taking enrolments for 2020.
"Our little preschool is just beautiful and we want to work towards building strong partnerships with families in the wider community.
"We encourage interested families to contact the preschool to arrange a visit."
Ph: 4473 7396 or email preschool@littleyuin.com to speak to Kim Cooke Director/Early Childhood Teacher.
