Philosophy 

We acknowledge the traditional custodians of the land on which we work, learn and play, the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin Nations. We pay respects to their elders past, present, and emerging. We strive to embed reconciliation into our daily practice and to be an example of reconciliation to the wider community. 

The Oakleigh Primary School Kindergarten and OSHC communities share common goals and values about the best ways to support children on their educational journeys. We encourage respectful, collaborative relationships between children, families, the school, educators, and the broader community, with our common focus being the child.

We value an inclusive and supportive environment where children can become inquisitive, respectful, and involved learners. We recognise that children’s education and development is best supported through meaningful and engaged play based learning. Our programs of learning reflect this with adult and child-led learning equally informing our programs of learning. We recognise that children have their unique perspectives on the world and nurture a sense of learning as fun and exciting.

We believe children and all community members have a right to feel safe and secure, and to have their dignity maintained at all times. We uphold a high standard of professional understanding, education, and practice relating to child safety standards and children’s protection from harm. We recognise that children’s safety is the responsibility of the whole community and promote a culture of child safety. This is reflected in our policies, procedures, and practices which are developed and continually reviewed in collaboration with our community.

We respect and celebrate the diversity within our community and beyond. We provide support to each child to promote their health, well-being, and individuality through a commitment to social justice.

We are committed to a strong focus on sustainability through both sustainable education and the modelling of sustainable practices. We acknowledge that sustainability as a practice has broader implications for the social, economic, and environmental well-being of the community and planet. 

We deeply believe in fostering a service that empowers children with agency, responsibility, and the freedom of choice. We aspire to provide opportunities for autonomy and decision-making, we aim to nurture children’s individual growth and sense of responsibility and we hope to create an environment where each child can thrive and contribute to their learning journey.

January 2024