GEKA Orrong Road

Spoonville Phenomenon

Tori Cooper, Early Childhood Educator 

"It takes a village to raise a child",is an African proverb that refers to the need for a community of people to interact with children to enable them to grow in safe environments. As adults we seek out others to become apart of our “tribe” – the people that surround us, that support connection and provide meaningful relationships, improving our mental health and wellbeing. GEKA Orrong Road Kindergarten provides both a village and a tribe, for the children, their families and the educators that work there.

I began working at GEKA Orrong Road Kindergarten at the beginning of term 3. I was instantly enveloped by a tight-knit group of educators, who work together and collaborate on all aspects of kindergarten life. The children clearly enjoyed the company of each other, working and playing in big and little groups and engaging with educators in positive and meaningful ways. It was clear from the laughter, the endless chatter and the happy faces (of educators and children!) that this was a kindergarten where relationships have been prioritised and nurtured – despite the disruptions of COVID-19 in term 2, I instantly felt like I belonged.

When the new lockdowns were announced, I witnessed the amazing educational team that I was now a part of. We prepared for remote learning and figuring out new ways for children to be engaged, learning and connected to the kindergarten throughout this time, and how families could be best supported. Our Spoonville was one element borne out of this planning, a way for the children to continue being a part of the GEKA Orrong Road Kindergarten.

Spoonville is a worldwide phenomenon, which is a visual display of the importance of community and connection in our lives. Our Spoonville showcases, are not just the artistic talents of the children but also a representation of our kindergarten community. The kindergarten is normally out and engaging within the wider community but with the restrictions COVID placed us under, this meant that it was not possible for most of this year.  

The Spoonys are a visual representation of the children at GEKA Orrong Road Kindergarten, and the establishment of Spoonville makes it clear that the children are very much a part of the local community.

GEKA Orrong Road Kindergarten is about relationships. The relationships between the children, their families, and the educators, and the wider community as a whole. It is a welcoming environment where everyone is respected and valued for who they are; a village for the children and their families, and a tribe for the educators. These relationships and connections are more important than ever in these times of uncertainty, providing a safe and secure space for the children to grow, a place for families to seek support, and a place of belonging for educators.