Early Learning Centres
Good Shepherd Lutheran College has an Early Learning Centre (ELC) for children aged 3-4 at each campus.
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| Howard Springs | Palmerston | Leanyer |
Qualified educators lead an innovative, play-based curriculum where children are encouraged to question, investigate and learn about the world around them, preparing them for their first year of Junior School.
Children can attend full-time or part-time with the choice of:
- School hours (8.15am - 2.30pm); or
- Long day care (7.00am - 5.30pm).
ELC facilities include:
- Large, open, resource-filled learning areas
- Large, securely fenced outdoor playgrounds and spaces
- Shaded play areas
- Sand/water play areas
- Access to kitchen for cooking lessons
- Specialised learning environment and equipment
- Dedicated, highly qualified and caring staff
Advantages of an ELC within an IB Junior School
- Outstanding educational programs, based on the Early Learning Framework and the IB Primary Years Programme.
- Involvement in Junior campus activities, assemblies and special events.
- Access to Junior school learning resources and College library for literacy enrichment.
- Use of Junior school facilities and play equipment.
- Support from College staff, including Learning Enrichment teachers.
In addition, children will experience a smooth flow into school entry. The ELC is the starting point for your child's Good Shepherd journey, extending right through to Year 12.
Uniform
ELC students wear the College PE uniform and College bucket hat, available from the Uniform Shop. Appropriate footwear includes secure sandals or joggers. A spare set of named clothes (does not need to be College uniform) in your child’s bag is required as children are often involved in water and messy play! We have a sun safety policy, which requires all children to wear sunscreen and sun hats outside. The centre provides sunscreen, but parents can provide their own if a particular sunscreen is required.
Food
The centre provides morning and afternoon tea. Children are required to bring a healthy lunch. Breakfast is not provided, but if brought to the centre will be supervised. Cold water is always available, and milk and/or water is provided at mealtimes.
Nut Minimisation: Please note that some members of our College community are allergic to nuts or products containing traces of nuts/peanuts/tree nuts. We ask that parents do not pack any foods that may contain these.
Policies/Procedures and Operating Plan
These are available within our ELCs and contain valuable information on how the Centre is managed and operated. Our helpful staff are also on hand to explain any policies or procedures. Staffing ratios are set by the Australian Children’s Education and Care Quality Authority (ACECQA) and educators hold appropriate qualifications at our centres.
Enrolments
For information on enrolling your child in one of our ELCs or to book a tour, please visit the Enrolments page.
