Glen Education Aspendale North 

Building Connections Through Community and Culture 

By Glen Education Aspendale North Tea

Throughout Term 4, at Glen Aspendale North Kindergarten, our education team has continued to strengthen children’s sense of belonging by building meaningful connections with our local community and celebrating the rich cultural diversity that surrounds us. 

We partnered with Bunnings, who provided an engaging gardening experience that encouraged children to explore the natural world through sensory play and inquiry. The children examined different herbs, discussing how they can be used in cooking and learning about their health benefits. This hands-on experience promoted curiosity, responsibility, and environmental awareness as the children nurtured their plants - reflecting the principles of Belonging, Being and Becoming in both the EYLF and VEYLF, particularly Outcome 2: Children are connected with and contribute to their world. 

We also welcomed local paramedics, providing an exciting opportunity for children to explore inside the ambulance and engage in rich discussions about how emergency responders help people in need. The paramedics demonstrated their tools, equipment, and uniforms, explaining how and where they are used to save lives. These authentic, real-world experiences supported children’s understanding of community roles, empathy, and safety awareness, aligning with Outcome 3: Children have a strong sense of wellbeing.  

Additionally, we were privileged to host a First Nations Incursion, where educators shared traditional stories, hunting tools, instruments used to attract birds, and the process of making natural ochre paint. Children were deeply engaged as they explored cultural traditions and listened to storytelling that deepened their appreciation and respect for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander heritage — connecting to Outcome 1: Children have a strong sense of identity and Outcome 2: Children are connected with and contribute to their world. 

Innovative Practice Spotlight: Vietnamese Language and Culture 

This Term 4, we are also proud to highlight one of our most innovative practices that reflects our strong commitment to multiculturalism and diversity — our Vietnamese language and culture program, led by our Diploma Educator, Cherry. 

Through engaging and interactive sessions, children have been learning simple Vietnamese words, songs, and cultural traditions. These experiences have offered meaningful opportunities for children to explore language, communication, and identity in fun, creative ways. 

This initiative not only supports children’s early language and cognitive development but also nurtures their appreciation of the rich cultural diversity within our community. By celebrating different languages and traditions, we are fostering respect, inclusion, and a deep sense of belonging for all children and families  —  reflecting the principles of Belonging, Being and Becoming in both the EYLF and VEYLF, particularly Outcome 1: Children have a strong sense of identity and Outcome 2: Children are connected with and contribute to their world. 

We are incredibly proud of how our children have embraced this innovative program — showing curiosity, enthusiasm, and appreciation for the beauty of another culture. A heartfelt thank you to our educatorfor sharing her language, stories, and passion with our learning community! 

Through these shared experiences, children have learned that real heroes in our community are the people who care for the environment, look after others, and honour cultural traditions. These inspiring connections have had a lasting impact on children’s learning and development — nurturing curiosity, cultural understanding, and a strong sense of community and belonging.