10-year vision to support Georges River children in learning and wellbeing

Collaborative learning, early-age decision making, enhanced responsibility towards caring for animals, diverse language learning, sports training and development are all on the drawing board in the Georges River Council’s Early Learning Service Strategy 2021-31, which is on public exhibition for feedback until 30 January 2022.

The 10-year vision to support Georges River children in their learning and wellbeing covers the  six early learning centres that are owned and operated by Council, caring for approximately 440 children and families.

Mayor Nick Katris said there was a strong body of evidence indicating that early educational programs and play based learning provide a solid foundation for children’s development.

“The evidence has driven us to develop a strategy and principles which reflects the values and needs of our local families,” he explained. Consultation is an important part of that process, and the Mayor said that feedback from the community will ensure the new vision meets the community’s current and future needs.

The draft Strategy presents a series of short, medium and long-term actions to deliver a service that is accessible, inclusive, consistent and innovative.

Access and Inclusion

Council is looking to expand its services with an additional, inclusive centre that supports vulnerable children and children with additional needs which inspires collaborative learning between families and children, and to foster a culture of quality improvement through reflection and best practice implementation.

Place an emphasis on the local community’s diverse background

Almost half (46 per cent) of Georges River’s children aged between 0-9 years of age speak a language other than English, which is significantly higher than the 32 per cent average in greater Sydney.

The Council is looking to create an environment where education in early childhood comes in many forms, with productive interaction either in diverse languages, personalities or methodologies that will stimulate children.

Children-focused services

Council will provide materials and programs that allow children to learn through play. These programs will be appropriate for children’s individual interests and developmental needs, including:

•       Cooking, arts and craft
•       Gardening and sustainability initiatives 
•       Sports and gross motor programs, that will guide children’s awareness in structured play
•       Caring for animals in the centres including: native bees, chickens, tadpoles and fish
•       Establish relationships with local community nursing homes
•       Language development, music and dance lessons.

To review the draft early learning strategy please see here. Copies are also available in Council libraries, Early Learning Centres and the Hurstville Civic Centre.