Early Childhood Education Centre (ECEC)

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Contact us

T. 9654 2111 | E. enquiries@hillsgrammar.nsw.edu.au

Introduction

At THGS we believe that children should be given the best start possible. The Early Childhood Education Centre (ECEC) is based on the belief that stimulating childhood experiences lay the foundation for lifelong learning. The centre’s objective is to provide challenging and motivating programs to empower young learners.

Inspired by the Reggio Emilia philosophy, the ECEC recognises that children are born with an innate sense of curiosity and wonder about the world in which they live. Children are seen as strong, capable and resourceful. We harness this belief by offering an inquiry based program which encourages the children to become problem solvers, risk takers and resilient learners. Natural curiosity is fostered by stimulating learning experiences where children can play and imagine, explore and discover, question and predict, think critically and collaborate. For more information please click here to download a brochure.

We recognise that the wider community also has a vital role to play in shaping the learning experiences of children. Our teachers engage parents as part of a team who work together to implement programs to suit the needs of each child. We value the differences that all families bring to the centre.

Enthusiastic teachers, parents and children are crucial in creating a strong and vibrant learning community. As a result, our values are people centred and humanitarian in nature. Our program promotes core values such as empathy, compassion, accountability, honesty, service, integrity, respect, acceptance, fairness and excellence.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the hours of the ECEC?
The ECEC will be open for 48 weeks a year from 7:30am – 6:00pm. The centre will be closed for a four week period over December and January.

Where will the centre be located?
The centre will operate from our current Community Relations Building which will be purposely renovated to cater for the needs of young children.

Who can attend?
The ECEC will focus on providing a school readiness program and priority will be given to four year old children.  Depending on demand and capacity, places will be made available to three year olds as well. The centre will be licensed for 30 children and will have a ratio of 1 staff member to every 10 children.

Will there be a Uniform?
The children will be required to wear the school sports uniform as it is comfortable for the children to move around in.

How many days can my child attend?
We will offer flexible programs based on 2, 3 or 5 days depending on availability.

How much will it cost?
The fee is $75 per day. The children will be provided with breakfast, lunch, morning tea and afternoon tea. 

What program will you be following?
The program has been developed and inspired by the innovative inquiry based, Reggio Emilia philosophy from Italy which recognises children as perceptive, intelligent and creative individuals with a sense of wonder about the world in which they live. There will be a purpose built learning environment that is dedicated to promoting problem solving, risk taking, challenges and choice.  The children will also participate in a comprehensive school readiness program to enable them to seamlessly transition into Kindergarten. The children will have access to a range of specialist teachers such as Music, Human Movement and Creative Arts. The centre boasts state of the art technology and computer resources and the curriculum will immerse children in the latest innovations. The program also incorporates the NSW Curriculum Frameworks and The Early Years Learning Framework for Australia.

Can I claim the Child Care Benefit?
We are currently applying for our licence through the NSW Department of Community Services. We are also applying for registration with the NCAC to participate in the accreditation program. You may be entitled to Child Care Benefits and / or the Child Care Tax Rebate of 50% of fees to a set level from The Federal Government depending upon your circumstances. It is your responsibility to contact the Family Assistance Office to establish your entitlements. Fact sheets are available at www.familyassist.gov.au.