Our Junior Preschool Approach
Home style nutrition
In acknowledging the needs of children as they play and engage in experiences, we allow for progressive eating in the preschool years. At each meal, children are given a window of time to choose to come to the table with their friends to eat. At Blume Academy, preschoolers assist educators in preparing for meal times, follow the basic rules around table etiquette and learn to see mealtimes as an opportunity to socialise and share stories with friends and educators. All our foods are made with fresh quality local produce and prepared by our in-house chefs who bring homemade meals to the classroom. Our menus are based on the National Nutritional guidelines.
Art portfolio
Blume Academy places much significance on a child’s creative development. We provide opportunities for our children to express themselves across a range of artistic forms appropriate to their age. Part of this process is building confidence, pride and acknowledgement through sharing their works with their parents. Each child will receive an art portfolio of the masterpieces they create so parents can file them away and have record of their memories made at Blume Academy.
Physical Environment
Children love to play! They thrive in the outdoors where they are free to run, climb, create, experiment, and take risks. The confidence and sense of achievement that comes with physical competence relates directly to children’s’ sense of who they are and what they can successfully do. They find joy exploring amongst the plants, insects and animals. As advocates for the protection and respect of our environment children are guided to reflect on the beauty of our outdoor world, how they interact with nature and how they can make it a more beautiful place for everyone. Engaging in sustainable practices such as recycling and gardening, they learn to develop good habits that are transferrable to home, big school and the broader community. The environment is also resourced to connect the children to the art and history of our First Nations People.
Your second set of eyes
We understand our parents’ need to feel reassured about their child’s health and wellbeing, which is why our educators will keep you informed of menus and meals consumed throughout the day, play and learning with a range of photos through our Blume app. Educators will call and consult families regarding any question that requires parent input. They will supply and record all daily activities about your child and maintain constant and ongoing supervision and care.
Socialising
Junior Preschool is a time when children establish their first important and meaningful friendships with peers and come to understand the role their educators play in keeping them safe and helping them learn. In this setting, they establish new social skills and learn how to use their voice in a respectful and independent way.
Incursions and Excursions
Our educational curriculum provides for limited excursions during this stage. Where possible children can be taken to a local park with the assistance of parents. During the Junior Preschool year Blume provides for a range of educational incursions to support children’s learning and connection with the broader community.
