Fraulein Maria was very wise when she suggested that starting at the very beginning was a very good place to start in the famous Sound of Music song Doe, a Deer.
In 2014 The Geelong College introduced an early learning class for children who turned three any time during the year, offering an early learning program tailored for younger learners.
Beginning in term two for three-year-olds or once they turn three, the program, which runs three days per week, helps build confidence, develop inquisitiveness and support the children in learning to collaborate.
For many children, it is their first out-of-home learning experience and the focus is for the child to feel comfortable and pursue their natural curiosity.
The Reggio Emilia inspired program sees children learning how to learn though an exploration of music, art, motor skills, creative play – both indoors and outdoors – cooking and the natural environment.
Interest based projects help children to learn to express themselves and their ideas, and to listen to others.
Junior School Head Chris Dinneen said: “Our Early Learning class for three-year-olds sets a great foundation for supporting and developing children’s individual and collaborative investigations.
“Our program is child-focused and learning centred and is aimed at developing relationships, self-expression, communication, confidence and curiosity, the building blocks of effective learning later on.”
Enrolments for the Early Learning class for three-year-olds are being taken now to start as soon as the children turn three.
Places are also available for three and four-year-olds in 2017.
Fees are comparable to most early learning centres.
Explore the world through the school’s open days on Wednesday 4 May, 10 August or 19 October.
For more information contact Deb Fanning at admissions@geelongcollege.vic.edu.au or phone 5226 3190.
