Our Programs
Quality play based educational programs guide children’s learning and development.
Educators collaborate in designing programs that enable children and families to achieve optimal learning and developmental outcomes for children. The educational program is based on knowledge of each child so that interactions, experiences, routines and events that a child engages in are relevant to them, respectful of their background, recognise and build on their current strengths, abilities and interests.
Healthy Beginnings
The Preschool aims to provide all children with the opportunity to enjoy and appreciate a healthy lifestyle, to give them the best chance to function well and actively engage in early learning activities. Children are encouraged to lead a healthy, active lifestyle, complemented by our fruit first message at morning tea. Fruit is offered to all children at Preschool either in the morning or afternoon, and combines well-loved fruits and vegetables with new things to try. Cooking activities encourage children to develop a wider palate.
Music and Movement
Singing and dancing is a fun way to improve concentration, co-ordination, balance, spatial awareness, and communication. It is included in our daily routine through spontaneous games outdoors and also through group times. Using movement at group times allows children to regulate their bodies and be active participants in their learning.
Using music at group times ignites children’s learning across many areas, and teaches rhythm, beat, turn taking, popular culture and songs from around the world. Visiting shows and excursions complement our in-house music and movement learning.
SPOT (Girinya Program)
A Speech, Physio and Occupational Therapy (SPOT) program is a small group program co-facilitated by speech pathologists, occupational therapists, and educators. Families receive updates, including take-home information sheets about the specific skills the program has been focusing on.
‘Ninganah No More’ Aboriginal Language Program
Forbes Preschool aims to develop, nurture and embrace the learning of Aboriginal language, culture and identity. All children at Preschool experience and have an increased understanding of Aboriginal culture and language, and children are supported to develop into bilingual speakers.
The Early Years Learning Framework
The aim of the Early Years Learning Framework is to extend and enrich children’s learning from birth to five years. It has an emphasis on play-based learning, and a vision for all children to experience learning that is engaging and builds success for life. Experiencing belonging, having time to be and growing towards everything they may become are goals for children which support this vision. The framework is built of practices and principles for educators, which work together with the five learning outcomes:
Outcome 1: Children have a strong sense of identity
Outcome 2: Children are connected with and contribute to their world
Outcome 3: Children have a strong sense of wellbeing
Outcome 4: Children are confident and involved learners
Outcome 5: Children are effective communicators
Hearing
A Nurse Audiologist provides education to children and families about healthy ears, including how to and the importance of blowing our noses and eating crunchy foods. Children who are identified receive a hearing test and are supported if a referral is required.
Transition to School
A successful transition to school is supported throughout your child’s whole preschool journey. Through playing and learning, interacting with others and developing independence away from home. Local school excursions and incursions, supporting families through the enrolment process and ensuring all children access the school kinder prep programs. We believe transition is from Preschool through to Year 12; our relationship with Forbes North, Forbes Public School, St Laurence’s, Bedgerebong Public, Forbes High School and Red Bend Catholic Collage support this belief.
Pop Up Preschool
Once a month the Preschool Pop up in a community park in partnership with Catholic Care. The purpose is to encourage families to engage with early learning experiences, connect with others and develop relationships with others in the community.