University Preschool & Child Care Centre - Australia

Program Image

Program

  • Type of Program: Full Day Child Care and Preschool
  • Age Served: Six weeks to school age
  • Funding Sources: Parent fees
  • Presenter: Norma Williams (Director)
  • Address: Australian National University (ANU)
    Lennox Crossing, Acton ACT 0200, Australia
  • Telephone: 61 02 6125 4113
  • Fax: 61 02 6230 1149

Program Purpose

We are a community based non-profit organisation and provide an on campus early childhood program for the children of students or working parents attending the Australian National University. Some places are available for children from the wider local community. The program includes nursery and toddler care and preschool programs.

Program Description

This centre was established in March 1969 by ANU staff members, and as far as we know, is the first community based Centre established in Canberra. It's ongoing growth and development has been largely due to the community contribution and commitment of parents and staff over many years. This centre was incorporated in 1972 and parents become members of the association on enrolment; parent representatives participate in the centre Management Committee along with staff representatives and the Director. The Management Committee meets monthly to discuss the program, policy making and business affairs of the association; and the Director is responsible for leadership and the overall management of the centre's day to day function. The centre is licensed to operate under the Children's Services Ordinance 1986, to provide child care and this license is subject to conditions referring to child/staff ratios; staffing qualifications; health & safety measures; buildings and facilities; insurance; programs and activities for the children; and the management of the Centre. We operate 51 weeks per year from 7.45 - 5.45 Monday to Friday.

Children's playrooms are light and airy and although spacious, portray a homely look due to the cottage style structure and the pastel colourings and soft furnishings. These changing play environments reflect the interests and needs of the children, seasons and the program resources. Each age section has its own garden and includes a variety of fixed and moveable play equipment. Children spend a considerable amount of time outdoors, so staff also plan for this environment and play activities. Gardens include a variety of native trees and shrubs providing shade and softness.

All staff are involved in planning, reviewing and evaluating the service and program; taking an 'eclectic' approach we aim to provide challenging, fun and dynamic, developmentally appropriate play activities for children, to foster the foundation areas of learning. Children select their own activities during the day; self-help skills are encouraged, developing the child's confidence and competence in managing their environment and relationships. We recognise the cultural diversity in Australia and aim to provide opportunities for children to learn about and respect other cultures. The Centre does not discriminate on the basis of gender, ethnic background, religion or social origin.

Parents and family visitors are welcome during the day to spend time with their children and observe and discuss the activities. Our nursery provides a comfortable area for breast-feeding mums, and our very experienced nursery staff have a reputation for getting babies off to sleep calmly and quickly! We have regular community activities for all the sections including: excursions, "big breakfasts", "twilight outdoor picnic's", barbeques, and short presentations about the program. We now have a small room set aside for parents and visitors which includes a library, videos, early childhood newsletters and other materials; this space is also used for discussions with potential and new users, and staff private discussions with parents.

Most Unique Program Feature

Staff and parents highlight the Centres unique features through their feedback and input into assessment and evaluation of the whole environment. The spacious and natural surroundings of buildings and grounds are highly regarded along with the warm decoration and relaxed but organised atmosphere. We do not receive any outside funding but every year ensure income is set aside for increasing and upgrading our play resources and equipment. Staff acknowledge and appreciate the autonomy having their own annual budget for equipment and materials in each section brings, and this arrangement also encourages negotiation, sharing and respect for resources. Our annual staff development conference motives and bonds the staff team and promotes the professional backgrounds we bring to our work. We acknowledge the co-operation and support of parents and management in providing this special day and are committed to making the most of such a valuable opportunity. Another special feature not to be under-estimated is the collegiality and friendship amongst the staff, creating a supportive and enjoyable work environment. The rich multicultural background of families and staff involved in the program broadens our insight and perspective into family life and child rearing practices.

Edited by Michael Kalinowski