This week, Thursday’s group were pleased to receive a visit from ex-students Matilda and Evie. You may remember Matilda recently participated in workplace training and was placed in our Kindy class for a week. The children and Matilda bonded strongly and it was wonderful that she came back to say hello to us.

Matilda and Evie are both Parklands graduates who started school as Pre-Kindy students. They are now in Year 10 and are obviously thriving academically, socially and emotionally. Kim found the learning journal from when the girls were in Kindy and it was wonderful to notice the same joyful atmosphere, similar prepared environment and many familiar materials. Of course, some things have changed in our classroom but the magic elements remain – a sense of calm, connection to nature, joyful play based experiences and deep engagement from our students. Evie and Matilda commented that their time in Kindy was happy and they retain friendships with their old Kindy classmates and with Parklands staff. These are some of the benefits of a holistic approach to teaching and learning that values each individual child. Class sizes are intentionally kept small so that our students can be nurtured, supported and extended to meet their maximum learning potential.

It is moments like these when we see the full benefit of what is offered at Parklands School and we are incredibly proud of the learning community which is created here and extends beyond our classroom walls.

Significant research suggests that healthy, supportive social relationships is one factor associated with high levels of wellbeing. What we believe strongly in our Kindergarten setting (and across our school) is that every interaction matters! In early childhood, these trusting and positive relationships are crucial to building a sense of belonging – knowing where and with whom you belong. Our students are “learning about their responsibilities to others, how to support their own and other’s wellbeing, to appreciate their connectedness and interdependence as learners and to value collaboration, teamwork and a sense of community.” (Early Years Learning Framework for Australia, V2, 2022)

It is truly wonderful to see our current students and our alumni thrive.

“With a powerful community, I can do so much more. I am happier. I learn and expand, and sometimes I can transform.” Elana Aguilar, Educator

Pre-Kindy is where many of our students join the Parklands School community and we love watching how quickly they settle into routines and develop independence and persistence. They grow in confidence and are always very well supported by their older Kindy buddies. These connections made in Kindy are often strong and remain for all the students’ primary years and into secondary school – as demonstrated by Matilda and Evie’s wonderful ongoing friendship. We think this is a very real example of the benefits of holistic education in a vibrant, nurturing community.

Parklands School Mission

“To develop confident, lifelong learners who are ready to make our world a better place”