Early Learning Centre Curriculum

Masada College Early Learning Centre is designed to be a microcosm of our society where learning, building social relationships and open and effective communication are interwoven into a Jewish context. It is a special place where values, responsibilities, caring and respect underpin and provide the foundations for understanding and deriving meaning from information.

Influenced in recent years by the philosophy of Reggio Emilia, our Preschool staff work alongside the children, guiding and facilitating, provoking, nourishing and initiating opportunities for children to express their thoughts and ideas in order to enrich their understanding. In this rich learning environment children feel respected and loved. Warmth, joy and laughter make the Early Learning Centre a safe place to take risks, test theories, make mistakes and try again. Our children learn to think critically and construct knowledge through play, drama, movement, music, art and construction. Our teaching staff recognise the value of building relationships, really listening to what children say and researching and learning together. It is a place where relationships and the rights of others are interconnected and reciprocal, valued and supported.

Knowledge of chagim (festivals), Shabbat (Sabbath), tefillah (prayer), Hebrew, customs, traditions, stories and games are part of our daily Jewish Studies learning. Our spiritual journey embraces a curriculum centred around Jewish values such as tikkun olam (making the world a better place), gemilut hasadim (acts of loving kindness), and kavod (respect and honour). These values provide a basis for social and emotional knowledge and behaviour. Starting with respect for themselves, for others and for their environment, our children develop a sense of responsibility.Our Preschool values kindness, co-operation, collaboration, tolerance, respect for others, a sense of wonder, an adventurous spirit and the joy of learning.