At Maples Early Learning, we believe every child is capable, curious, and full of potential. Our Kilmore and Hawthorn East centres follow the Reggio Emilia approach, creating meaningful learning experiences that foster creativity, confidence, and a deep connection to the world around them.
At Maples Early Learning, we are proud to offer a nurturing, Reggio Emilia-inspired approach to early childhood education, where children thrive through creativity, exploration, and connection with nature. Guided by the Victorian Early Years Learning Framework, we always strive for excellence, ensuring that every child receives the highest quality early learning experience.
Our passionate and dedicated teachers lead intentional, enriching programs that include art, gardening, music, and physical education, all designed to foster a lifelong love of learning. We emphasise sustainability and the importance of real-world materials, creating a home-like environment that sparks curiosity and instils a sense of wonder in every child. With beautiful indoor and outdoor spaces, children are encouraged to explore and grow in a safe, supportive setting that prioritises their safety and wellbeing.
Families also receive regular educational updates, including detailed 6-monthly summative assessments, keeping you informed and connected with your child's progress every step of the way.
Our educational philosophy, inspired by the Reggio Emilia Approach, celebrates the boundless potential of children by creating rich, interactive learning environments. Each room is thoughtfully designed to engage and nurture young minds across a variety of developmental areas:
This holistic approach ensures that every child is seen as a capable, competent learner, ready to explore and grow in a beautiful, inspiring environment.
Children are natural explorers, capable of shaping their own learning journey. By engaging in meaningful experiences, they build independence, creativity, and a sense of belonging.
Children explore their world, sparking imagination, curiosity, and growth.
Outdoor experiences connect children to the environment and themselves.
Children form strong bonds with peers, educators, and community.
Play and storytelling encourage self-expression and creative thinking.
The Reggio Emilia Approach is a renowned educational approach rooted in the belief that every child is unique, capable, and full of potential. Originating in Reggio Emilia, Italy, this approach is celebrated for its emphasis on child-centred learning and the powerful role of community and environment in education.
At Maples you'll find open, inviting spaces filled with natural light, thoughtfully arranged materials, and areas designed for exploration and collaboration. Experiences are shaped by the children's interests, allowing them to take ownership of their learning journey. Teachers act as guides, facilitating projects and helping children connect their ideas to meaningful experiences.
By embracing this approach, families become integral to the learning process, sharing in the joy of discovery and fostering a strong sense of community.
At Maples Early Learning, we use personalised portfolios to create a meaningful, documented journey of each child's growth and achievements. These portfolios are regularly updated by our dedicated educators and shared with families, showcasing:
We encourage families to actively participate in their child's portfolio, adding their own reflections and browsing through the documented journey.
This collaborative approach offers our educators deeper insights into each child's unique interests, enabling us to incorporate them into our tailored educational programs. Together, we create a holistic and connected learning experience that celebrates your child's individuality.
At Maples, we cherish the contributions of families and welcome their involvement in enriching our curriculum. Here are additional ways families can actively participate:
These are only a few examples of the exciting ways to get involved at Maples!
Our educators foster meaningful learning through expertise, reflection, and dedication. They nurture curiosity, confidence, and a love for learning in every child.
Educators create learning experiences that encourage exploration and growth.
Continuous self-reflection enhances teaching practices and child outcomes.
Our team brings diverse skills and approaches to every learning moment.
Educators tailor learning to each child’s needs, interests, and strengths.
At Maples we create moments, experiences and spaces for our children to connect with the natural world. We purposely design our environments with the intention to encourage curiosity, discovery and a sense of wonder.
Our curriculum provides opportunities for children to actively explore both the indoor and outdoor classrooms. Our indoor-outdoor environments include a variety of natural elements to provide opportunities for children to explore the natural world.
Our environment may include sand, grass, plants and tree logs, all of which challenge and provide children with an appropriate level of risk. The children's curriculum also includes the preservation of the world, and the children actively manage and care for centre pets, composting programs, community gardens and worm farms.
We cultivate strong community connections by celebrating cultures, honouring heritage, and actively engaging in meaningful local initiatives. Our inclusive approach ensures every family feels valued and supported.
We celebrate the diversity of families, honouring their unique traditions.
We recognise and respect the heritage of traditional landowners.
We engage in events and initiatives that strengthen community bonds.
We create spaces where every family feels safe, valued, and included.
Our classrooms are designed to encourage exploration and creativity. Bright, open layouts and eco-friendly materials provide a safe, welcoming space for children to learn and grow.
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