Our Approach
Our Child-Centered View
At Phillip Island Kindergarten, children are at the heart of everything we do. They are decision-makers in our curriculum and co-creators of their learning journey. Our educators observe children closely and respond to their interests, needs, and curiosities to build a dynamic and engaging program.
We recognise that every child develops in their own unique way—emotionally, socially, intellectually, morally, physically, and spiritually—and our team is dedicated to meeting children where they are at.
Our Learning Environments
Our educators work together to use space, materials, and relationships to inspire learning. We integrate literacy, numeracy, science, the arts, and technology into daily learning possibilities, creating meaningful learning experiences based on children’s ideas and interests.
Throughout the year, children enjoy a variety of incursions and excursions that add depth and excitement to their learning. These include performances, encounters, visits, and walks in our beautiful local community. These shared experiences help children connect with the world around them and discover the place they hold in it.
Our environments are intentionally designed to empower children with a sense of ownership and freedom. The building design and every piece of furniture and material is chosen with purpose—to invite interaction, creativity, support learning, encourage self-expression, and nurture independence. The layout of our spaces respects and supports children’s developmental needs by offering safe, accessible areas that encourage exploration and movement.
We believe that curiosity is the most powerful teacher, so our indoor and outdoor spaces are integrated to allow for continuous, uninterrupted exploration throughout the day.
Our Meaningful Connections
At the heart of our approach is a deep commitment to building strong, responsive relationships—with our children and families. We believe that genuine understanding grows from connection. The better we know each child, the more naturally we can tune into their individual needs. Shifting away from task-focused care toward a relationship-centered model helps foster the essential sense of security that young children need when away from home.
We view children as capable, curious individuals. By allowing them the freedom to move and explore at their own pace, we support their natural inclination to learn and grow. As children gain confidence in their physical abilities, this freedom leads to opportunities for adventurous, self-directed play that builds resilience, courage, and coordination.
Our Community
Community is something we grow together. We are reminded daily of the importance of connection: to people, to place, and to the natural world that surrounds us. These early bonds shape how children see themselves and how they move through the world.
Involving children with the community helps them understand where they belong. When they learn to value difference and diversity, they begin to see that everyone’s story has a place and that those differences are not just normal, but beautiful.
Contact us
Have some questions? Fill out some info and we will be in touch shortly. We can’t wait to hear from you!
Kindergarten Manager
D’Lene Johnson
info@phillipislandkindergarten.com.au
M: 0433 576 691