Kornmehl Centre Emanuel Pre-school
A child-centred, total learning experience in a nurturing and educational environment.
Our Philosophy
A hundred ways of marveling, dreaming, thinking, seeing.
The most impressionable years in a child's life are the pre-school years. At this young age, children not only grow physically but in all areas - socially, emotionally, intellectually and spiritually.
The Kornmehl Centre has developed a rich culture of reflection, questioning and extension in our thinking about the importance of young children enjoying a long, happy and challenging early childhood. We value the development of relationships that convey respect and work to build strong relationships with the children, families and the community.
At Kornmehl we believe that all children have the right to experience learning that is engaging and builds success for life. (EYLF). We embrace a holistic approach to teaching and learning that recognises the connectedness of Mind, Spirit and Being. (Emanuel School Motto)
Much of our thinking has been influenced by a number of key active approaches to early childhood, particularly the Reggio Emilia philosophy and the Early Years Learning Framework.
Curriculum
Our aim is to ensure children are well balanced and that they have developed the social and emotional skills to make a smooth transition to school. Equally important is promoting the development of confident, happy and self-assured individuals.
We believe in the power of collaborative learning, learning that takes place when children work together, plan, engage in shared thinking and ideas, reflect and help their peers.
Play and learning are most important in our curriculum, which reflects the ideas and interests of the individual child. The role of the teacher is to facilitate, nurture, extend and guide the children's learning.
We promote an integrated learning experience, where numeracy and literacy skills are gained through intentional teaching.
Environment
At Kornmehl we provide a beautiful and inviting environment that is rich, stimulating and nurturing. Our environment evokes imagination and inspires creativity. We see the environment as the third teacher, reflecting the interests of the children. We value indoor and outdoor environments that support all aspects of children’s learning. Our environment provides an abundance of natural and authentic materials, encouraging children to develop an appreciation of nature and an understanding of the real world.
Jewish Life
Our Pre-school has an integrated Jewish Studies program. The children's Jewish identity is strengthened through daily prayers and blessings (brachot), learning the Hebrew language, songs, stories, dances and celebrating the festivals.
Fridays are very special at the Pre-school, when children and educators celebrate Shabbat together. At the end of their early childhood experience, the children have a strong sense of their Jewish heritage and an understanding that they are a valued part of a wonderful and dynamic Jewish community.
School Readiness
One of the key areas of maturity is social and emotional development. This includes interactions with and awareness of others, resilience, self-esteem, confidence, expression and recognition of feelings, concentration and listening skills and being able to communicate effectively with others.
The children's transition to Kindergarten at Emanuel School is complemented through orientation visits to Emanuel classrooms, visits to Years K-2 school assemblies, visits to the Emanuel Primary School library, the Buddy Reading program with Year 2 students, inclusion in Year K Passover Seders and weekly Playball lessons.
The children's total pre-school experiences are the catalyst to later school fulfillment.
