2018 Early Learning Centre Parent Handbook - Concordia College
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Early Learning Centre
Parent Handbook
2018
Welcome We welcome your family to the Concordia College Early Learning Centre (ELC) community. The ELC is the first step into education at Concordia College and provides a safe and nurturing environment for children to develop a sense of belonging. Children in the ELC are viewed as capable, competent and successful learners and will be supported to explore, build confidence and be challenged. I am privileged to work alongside an experienced and qualified team of educators who are dedicated to supporting the wellbeing and development of each child. We are honoured to partner with you in your child’s journey of learning and discovery. Kate Wood Early Learning Centre Director
2018 ELC Parent Handbook |1
(Contents)
Contents
Key Contacts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Mealtimes and Nutrition . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Key Dates for 2018 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Medication, Illness and Accidents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Nature Play . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
About our Early Learning Centre . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Out of School Hours Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Early Learning Centre: A-Z . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Parent Contact Details . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Absences . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Parent Communications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-13
Arrival and Collection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Parent Groups . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Assessment and Reporting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Parent Involvement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Banking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Pets Within the Centre . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Behaviour Management . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6
Photography . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Birthday Celebrations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Play . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Child Care Benefit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Policies and Procedures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Child Protection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Privacy / Confidentiality . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Christian Education . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Public Holidays / Pupil Free Days . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Class Coordinators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Recycled Materials . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Code of Ethics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Resource Centre Borrowing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Community Carer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Rest Time . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Custody and Access . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Safe Environment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Daily Routine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Sickness . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Emergencies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Single Subject Lessons . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Emergency Contact . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Social Development . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Equal Opportunity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8
Student Teacher and Professional Involvement . 16
Exclusion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Sun Smart . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Excursions and Incursions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Sustainability . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Extended Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Technology . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Family Directory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Toys . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Fees / Accounts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Transition . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Grievance Procedures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Uniform . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Health . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Universal Access . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Immunisation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10
Volunteers and Visitors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Inclusion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
What to Bring . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Indigenous Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Languages Other Than English . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Learning Support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
2018 ELC Parent Handbook |2
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Key
Contacts
St John’s Campus Extended Care (Stay and Play) /
Finance Coordinator
Principal Sarah Neill
Michael Paech sneill@concordia.sa.edu.au
mpaech@concordia.sa.edu.au
Parent Contact
Deputy Principal Dena Smith 0404595884
Sue Drogemuller dena.ivalene.smith@gmail.com
sdrogemuller@concordia.sa.edu.au
Year Level Coordinators
Business Manager Dena Smith
Sally Staggs Anna Bouchard
sstaggs@concordia.sa.edu.au Natasha Sellan
Pastor Early Learning Centre: Hours
Dale Gosden (commencing 2018) Day Session: 8.30am – 3pm
dgosden@concordia.sa.edu.au Extended Care: 3pm – 6pm
Community Carer Early Learning Centre: Contact
Rachelle Fairlie 20 Highgate Street, Highgate SA 5063
rfairlie@concordia.sa.edu.au 8273 0412
elc@concordia.sa.edu.au
Early Learning Centre School Office: 8271 4299
www.concordia.sa.edu.au
ELC Director
Kate Wood
kwood@concordia.sa.edu.au
ELC Teachers
Deborah Waters
dwaters@concordia.sa.edu.au,
Sarah Neill
sneill@concordia.sa.edu.au
ELC Educators
Mary Marker
mmarker@concordia.sa.edu.au
Catherine Critchley
ccritchley@concordia.sa.edu.au
2018 ELC Parent Handbook |3
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Key Dates
for 2018
Term 1
Monday 29 January – Friday 13 April
Term 2
Wednesday 2 May – Friday 29 June
Term 3
Tuesday 24 July – Friday 28 September
Term 4
Monday 15 October – Wednesday 12 December
ELC Orientation Visit 2017
Friday 1 December 9.30am-10.00am
OR 10.45-11.15am
Play Date
TBA
Transition Visit
Wednesday 24 January 11.00am-11.45am
Term One Holiday Care
Monday 15 January – Thursday 25 January
ELC Year Level Information Evening
Wednesday 14 February(Contents)
2018 ELC Parent Handbook |5
(Contents)
About our
Early Learning Centre
Concordia College Early Learning Centre’s (ELC) The Concordia College ELC is part of the St John’s
vision is to provide excellence in education and Campus, providing access to whole-school facilities,
care in a nurturing Christian environment. Our specialist teachers and resources. Close collaboration
inquiry-based curriculum follows the International with the Primary School also allows for smooth
Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme and the transitions.
Early Years Learning Framework. Our programme
Our ELC and Out of School Hours Care (OSHC)
incorporates: children’s interests; outcomes specific
Program have been awarded an Exceeding National
to individual children; opportunities for single subject
Quality Standard rating by the Australian Children’s
teaching; nurturing spiritual, emotional and social
Education and Care Quality Authority, exceeding the
development; developing knowledge, skills and
standards in all seven quality areas.
attitudes through inquiry learning; and provides for
student wellbeing. The fortnightly plan is displayed on Our Beliefs
the noticeboard outside the ELC. ++ When children feel safe, secure and supported
The programme will reflect and respond to the they grow in confidence to explore and learn.
developmental stages of each child, providing for ++ Children’s social and emotional development in the
the child’s needs, interests and education, while early years is critical to their future learning and
respecting and acknowledging the role of parents and well-being.
family, as well as cultural diversity. ++ Children’s physical health and well-being
contributes to children’s ability to concentrate,
A balance of structured programmes and play-
cooperate and learn.
based experiences help build a firm foundation for
++ Young children learn best through play and
future learning. We take inspiration from the Reggio
supported inquiries.
Emilia philosophy and recognise children as strong,
++ Children learn best when there is a positive
competent and resourceful learners. Nature play is
and supportive relationship between educators
also a strong influence in our ELC. A carefully planned
and families.
environment, both inside and out, is extremely
++ Children are capable and competent learners.
important in creating wonder and curiosity. Teachers
They learn in a variety of ways and vary in their
and educators are facilitators, encouraging children
capabilities and pace of learning.
to listen to each other, take risks with their learning,
++ Children should be supported in their transition to
think creatively, construct their knowledge and
the ELC and to Primary School.
understanding of the world, and to go beyond what
++ Children’s sense of well-being is enhanced by a
they thought was possible. Programmes will be
knowledge and understanding of God’s love.
explicit in teaching equity and diversity.
++ Early Childhood educators have a responsibility to
be ongoing learners and practice critical reflection.
Our full Statement of Philosophy can be viewed on
the College website www.concordia.sa.edu.au2018 ELC Parent Handbook |6
(Contents)
Early Learning Centre: A-Z
Absences Assessment and Reporting
Please notify educators by phone or email if your Learning outcomes for children are assessed
child is going to be absent from the Early Learning continuously in the ELC.
Centre (ELC).
Educators maintain comprehensive developmental
Phone: 8273 0412 records for each child which include documentation of
Email: elc@concordia.sa.edu.au child observations and assessments. Teachers provide
feedback on children’s progress during Parent/
Arrival and Collection Teacher Interviews, which are held early in Term 1 and
mid-year. Educators are available after school for an
The Educators at the ELC will act ‘in loco parentis’ to
informal chat, or by appointment. Photographs and
the children in our care. Each child will be welcomed
documentation of children’s learning are shared with
into the care of the staff and collected from them to
families regularly and original works are collated in a
ensure appropriate responsibility is taken for their
folder which is always available in the ELC for viewing
care and safety.
and sent home throughout the year. A written report
It is important that parents/guardians enter and exit and a USB stick with photographs of your child at ELC
through the main door near the ELC garden. An adult are sent home at the end of Term 4.
must record the child’s arrival and departure times
on the sign in/out sheet. The sign in/out sheets are an Banking
important record of your child’s attendance for Child
The school supports and encourages families to
Care Subsidy purposes and for emergency evacuation
consider banking with the Lutheran Laypersons
roll calls. Families must inform staff in writing if there
League (LLL). Passbooks are collected from the
is to be any deviation from their normal collection
ELC weekly.
arrangements. Children will only be released to
authorised adults (over 18 years of age).
Behaviour Management
Parents must telephone the ELC to advise staff if they
are unable to collect their child at the usual departure At the ELC we aim to provide an environment
time. Children still in the ELC after 3.15pm will be based on caring and respectful behaviour. We help
cared for in our extended care programme, Stay and children to learn the skills to communicate effectively
Play. Parents will be charged for a casual Stay and and show respect for each other. Appropriate and
Play session. respectful ways of behaving are negotiated with
the children and the agreements are displayed and
referred to. Incidents of inappropriate behaviour
are seen as an indicator that a child is experiencing
frustration or distress. We will acknowledge the child’s
feelings and attempt to assess the reasons for the
problem behaviour. This is done in a loving and caring2018 ELC Parent Handbook |7
(Contents)
environment that promotes faith, hope, justice and
Child Protection
reconciliation. Educators will employ positive teaching
and caring techniques. The ELC staff have a legal responsibility to defend the
rights of children to care and protection. To support
We acknowledge, encourage and praise caring and
this right the Centre will follow the procedures set
responsible behaviour. Effective management of
down by the Department of Family and Community
student behaviour occurs in partnership between
Services under the Children’s Protection Act 1993
the ELC and families. Where a child’s behaviour is
Section 11 (1) & (2) when dealing with any allegations
problematic, parents/guardians will be consulted.
of abuse or neglect of children. All educators are
We will collaborate with families to ensure behaviour
trained to support children’s wellbeing and safety.
guidance techniques are positive and consistent.
Please see the section on Volunteers and Visitors
Birthday Celebrations for information about parental responsibilities for
safe practices.
We celebrate special events at the ELC including
children’s birthdays. We ask that families refrain from
Christian Education
bringing cake or other food treats to share as we
have many children with allergies. Birthday invitations Christian Education in the ELC is an introduction to
should be sent directly and not placed in pigeonholes. faith, devotion, worship and experiencing God’s love
Some children become distressed if they see that they and grace. It allows children to witness faith in action
have not received an invitation. Contact details of throughout the day and to form trusting relationships
families are printed in the Family Directory. Please see with people who communicate their faith. Christian
the section on Family Directory for more information. Education provides the opportunity for children to
experience a sense of belonging to a caring Christian
Child Care Benefit community. In our ELC, Christian Education includes
the opportunity to participate in devotion, worship,
Families are able to claim Child Care Benefits from service to others and pastoral care.
Centrelink and the Family Assistance Office of the
Christian Studies is a key learning area that provides
Australian Government. Please notify staff of the
children with the opportunity to engage in a
Customer Reference Number and date of birth of your
curriculum that allows students to hear, explore
child and the enrolling parent.
and reflect on the gospel message. It is a discipline
of learning that introduces children to the world
of religion and spirituality. Christian Studies is an
essential part of the whole Christian Education
program of the school.2018 ELC Parent Handbook |8
(Contents)
Class Coordinators Daily Routine
Each year level in the school has Parent Coordinators 8.30am Welcome and settling
to organise social functions for the families. Their 9.00am Indoor/outdoor learning
role is also to be a point of contact when parents are 10.00am Fitness
unsure about school-related events. 10.15am Group Time
10.30am Fruit Snack
Code of Ethics 10.45am Indoor/outdoor learning
11.45am Group Time
The staff of Concordia College ELC are committed
12.00pm Single Subject Learning
to adhering to the Early Childhood Australia Code of
12.30pm Lunch
Ethics and to acting in the best interests of all children
1.00pm Rest
to ensure they thrive and learn.
1.30pm Indoor/outdoor learning
2.30pm Snack (optional)
Community Carer 2.40pm Group Time
Rachelle Fairlie is the Community Carer for the St 2.50pm Devotion
John’s Campus of Concordia College. Her role is to 3.00pm Home or ‘Stay and Play’
support the well-being of the children and families 6.00pm Closure of ELC
within the ELC and the campus community. She
organises teacher and parent education to help with Emergencies
the needs of young people, as well as encouraging
Appropriate resources, procedures and routines
community engagement.
are in place to deal with emergencies. Evacuation/
Direct phone: 8273 0428 Lockdown drills are held regularly. Appropriate fire
Email: rfairlie@concordia.sa.edu.au precautions are in place to reduce the risk of fire.
Custody and Access Emergency Contact
The Family Law Act (1975) states that both parents In the case of an emergency where a child’s parents
have rights and responsibilities as joint guardians of cannot be contacted, the person stipulated on the
children. Concordia College ELC must comply with a enrolment form as an emergency contact will be
court order issued by the Family Court or Supreme contacted. It is expected that all persons recorded on
Court determining guardianship, custody and access. this form have the authority to collect the child from
the Centre in the case of an emergency, illness and
late collection.
Equal Opportunity
Concordia College ELC has a firm commitment to
Equal Opportunity principles and will ensure that
no discriminatory policies or practices exist when
providing services to children and families, and in
any aspect of employment.2018 ELC Parent Handbook |9
(Contents)
Exclusion Extended Care
The ELC reserves the right to exclude enrolled Our extended care service is called Stay and Play.
children in specific circumstances, which include risk This service is available from 3.00pm until 6.00pm.
to the child, other children and/or staff. Exclusion Children remaining in the ELC after 3pm will be
from the ELC would only occur after all other avenues booked into Stay and Play, and fees will apply.
of communication and support have been exhausted. Permanent and casual bookings are available. See
Short term exclusion may occur when: the fee schedule on the College website for further
++ a child is unwell on arrival details. Child Care Benefits apply for eligible families.
++ symptoms suggest the child may be contagious After 6pm, late fees of $1 per minute for the first ten
++ the child becomes unwell at the ELC minutes and then $10 per minute thereafter will apply.
++ the staff suspect that the child has a fever
The Centre is open through the holidays but is closed
++ the child is very distressed, or
for four weeks over Christmas.
++ the child is not immunised against a disease which
has affected other families at the Centre.
Family Directory
Excursions and Incursions The Family Directory is designed to assist our school
community to strengthen links between students
Excursions and incursions are an integral part of the
and families. The directory is supplied on the
children’s curriculum, offering interest, challenge and
understanding that it will only be used for the purpose
discovery within and about the wider community.
of organising College-based activities. Inclusion in
Excursions and incursions will be planned to provide
this directory is voluntary and therefore the list of
a range of learning experiences for children. Parents
families is not exhaustive. The Family Directory can
will be informed in advance about when incursions
be accessed on the College website’s parent portal in
and excursions take place. Parental permission will be
School Information.
obtained for all excursions.
Parent volunteers assisting on excursions will require Fees / Accounts
a current police check and need to have completed
Accounts are emailed at the beginning of each term
the Valuing Safe Communities online training.
and payable within 14 days. Accounts will include
More information about this is outlined under the
sessions booked and permanent Stay and Play
Volunteers and Visitors section.
bookings. Accounts will reflect Child Care Benefit or
Child Care Rebate deductions. Details of fees can be
found on the published fee schedule.2018 ELC Parent Handbook | 10
(Contents)
Grievance Procedures
Our ELC fosters positive relations between all parents
and educators. Every parent has the right to a positive
and sympathetic response to their concerns. Solutions
are sought to resolve all disputes, issues or concerns
in a fair, prompt, positive and confidential manner.
Parents are always welcome to provide feedback
and comments either in writing or in person to the
Director. The policy for dealing with grievances can be
found on the College website.
Health
++ Hygiene and Safety
The ELC will maintain an environment which
ensures the health of children, parents and
educators. Within the broader community, the
ELC educators will maintain practices which
promote a clean and healthy world.
The value of water play for young children
is recognised, however water for play will be
provided within strict safety guidelines.
++ Specific Health Conditions
Concordia College ELC supports the
mainstreaming of children with specific health
conditions and/or diet restrictions where it can
provide appropriate support and where it is in the
best interests of the child.
Immunisation
The ELC promotes the protection of children from
infectious diseases and strongly advocates that
children and educators are immunised. Children who
are not immunised will be excluded from the ELC
during outbreaks of infectious diseases for which
immunisation is available. Families are asked to
provide a copy of their child’s Immunisation History
Statement.2018 ELC Parent Handbook | 11
(Contents)
Inclusion Mealtimes and Nutrition
The ELC aims to provide an environment which is Mealtimes at the ELC provide a calm, social, positive
free from bias and prejudice, an environment in which learning experience for children who are encouraged
children learn the principles of fairness and respect to develop healthy eating habits. Families are asked
for the uniqueness of each person. The ELC involves to provide a nutritious lunch and two snacks. Fruit
the community to assist educators and children and vegetables are encouraged for the morning
to understand and accept a range of cultures and snack. On arrival, please place children’s lunch boxes
abilities. The diversity of the community, families and in the baskets provided. Lunch boxes are kept in
educators at our Centre is valued and families are the refrigerator to ensure safe storage. Drink bottles
actively encouraged to share their experiences with should contain water and Educators will refill drink
educators, children and other families. containers with water as necessary. Drink bottles are
placed in a caddy to ensure accessibility.
Indigenous Connections Please do not send in lollies or any food items
ELC educators respect all Aboriginal and Torres containing nuts (e.g. peanut butter, nut spreads like
Strait Islander people and recognise they are the Nutella, nut muesli bars etc.) as we have children with
first people of Australia. Educators acknowledge very serious nut allergies.
the Kaurna people as the traditional custodians of Nude Food: As a part of our Centre’s practice
the land on which the ELC sits. The ELC educators we encourage families to participate in the ‘nude
support children to become more knowledgeable food’ lunchbox initiative, minimising packaging
about Aboriginal Australia and embed meaningful and that contributes to ‘land fill’. Plastic containers and
respectful experiences and practices in the Centre. washable material packaging have been popular re-
“Kaurna miyurna, Kaurna yarta, ngadlu tampinthi” usable alternatives to cling film, zip lock bags or pre-
(We recognise Kaurna people and their land). packaged foods. Wrappers packed in lunch boxes will
be sent home for disposal.
Languages Other Than English
The ELC educators make every effort to communicate
Medication, Illness
effectively with all families. Please notify a staff
and Accidents
member if English is not your first language and we All ELC educators have current first aid qualifications
will endeavour to provide you with material in your plus relevant training in asthma and anaphylaxis
language of choice. As an International Baccalaureate emergency.
school, we encourage the children to view themselves
ELC educators undertake to administer medication
as global citizens. One of our daily routines is to greet
only within strict guidelines. Medication must come to
and farewell each other in the Kuarna language or
the ELC in its original container with the child’s name,
another language other than English.
dosage and expiry date clearly visible. Families will
be asked to fill out and sign an authorisation form,
Learning Support giving details of the medication and dosage required.
The ELC has access to the Learning Support staff of Educators will not administer Panadol or other
the school. The Learning Support teacher works in pain relieving medication. Families of children with
conjunction with the ELC educators to identify and diagnosed asthma or serious allergies must present
assist staff to work with children with additional needs an Action Plan from their doctor and preventative
and rights. medication should be kept at the ELC.2018 ELC Parent Handbook | 12
(Contents)
ELC educators are trained in first aid and will tend to
Parent Communications
any minor accidents as they occur. A daily log is kept
recording any first aid administered. The log is signed The provision of high quality education and care
by staff and parents. Families will be notified by a note is based on mutual responsibility. Therefore, the
in the pigeon hole if their child has received first aid. ELC educators will seek regular information and
All reasonable precautions will be taken to prevent feedback from families and undertake to provide
accidents and to protect children’s safety. Parents regular information to families. We will make ourselves
will be notified by telephone of any serious accident available for informal chats as much as possible. You
requiring medical treatment. An ambulance will be are also welcome to ask for an appointment to discuss
called in the event of an emergency. Educators will your child. Information with regards to family issues
keep records of any illness, accidents and medication and personal lives will be handled confidentially.
administered. Please feel free to call or email the ELC educators
with any queries. Messages may be left on the ELC
Nature Play answering machine. Messages will be responded to
as soon as possible. The ELC may also be contacted
Nature play benefits children’s health, learning and through the School Office.
overall well-being. Interacting with and in nature
Phone (ELC): 8273 0412
helps children to develop their understanding of
Phone (School Office): 8271 4299
the world around them. It builds awareness for
Email (ELC): elc@concordia.sa.edu.au
the need to care for the natural resources we all
depend upon. At Concordia College, children’s ++ Pigeon Holes
development and learning are enhanced through Pigeon holes are provided to assist staff with
planned and unstructured nature play experiences managing communications with parents.
such as involvement in the ELC garden, visiting local Parents should seek the permission of a staff
surrounding parks and Belair National Park. member before placing an item in another child’s
pigeon hole.
Out of School Hours Care ++ Online Newsletter
ELC children have access to Before School Care The fortnightly school newsletter, Concordia
through Concordia College’s Out of School Hours CONNECT, is distributed on Thursdays of even
Care (OSHC) service between 7.30am and 8.30am. weeks during term time. An email alert and
notification via the School Star app lets families
Phone: 8273 0425
known when the latest edition is available.
Parent Contact Details ++ ELC Updates
A link to the ELC fortnightly update is emailed
Please notify educators if any of your contact details to families and can also be found on the school
change. It is essential that we have your correct website’s parent portal (password protected) in
details in case of an emergency. The contact details the section called St John’s Campus Updates.
for College families can be found in the Family This is the primary source of communication
Directory. for informing families of ELC information and
upcoming events. Families can keep informed
of the daily spontaneous learning experiences
at the ELC by reading the journal written on the
whiteboard outside the door.(Contents)
2018 ELC Parent Handbook | 14
(Contents)
++ Concordia Community Parents assisting regularly in the Centre will require a
Concordia Community is the College’s biannual DCSI screening check and need to have completed
magazine, featuring articles from the ELC through the Valuing Safe Communities online training.
to the Senior School. It also features event wrap- More information about this is outlined under the
ups, student achievements and news from the Volunteers and Visitors section.
Concordia Old Collegians Association (COCA). It
is distributed to all families in hard copy in autumn Pets Within the Centre
and spring.
The ELC acknowledges the role animals have in
++ Concordia College Website and Parent Portal contributing to the programme through the children’s
The Concordia College website has information on environment and social education. To ensure
a wide range of school activities and events. Please children’s safety and well-being, any animals/pets
see the School Office or staff for information on visiting the Centre must be approved prior to the visit.
how to access the parent portal.
++ St John’s Campus Yearbook Photography
A copy of the St John’s Campus Yearbook is sent The use of photos is integral to making children’s
home at the end of the year. learning visible. The educators are aware of the
need for privacy and sensitivity when using
Parent Groups children’s images. Parents will be asked to sign an
At the St John’s Campus we have a very friendly authorisation for their child’s photograph to be used
and active group of parents and friends called Links. in the ELC blog, school newsletter, website and
All families are welcome to join the Links group promotional materials.
and to help organise school social functions and
fundraising events. Play
Through play children construct every aspect of
Parent Involvement their knowledge and develop dispositions/attitudes
The ELC acknowledges the central role of parents in for learning. Social development occurs as children
the programme and seeks to work in partnership with interact with their peers and adults. Intellectual
families. Parents are encouraged to be actively involved development is promoted as children actively
and to participate in the daily life of the Centre. The manipulate and explore objects in their environment.
ELC values parent expertise and encourages parents Children gain physical skills as they climb, swing,
to be involved in learning experiences with the children. run, dig and manipulate equipment. Language skills
We are also appreciative of any offers of help in are developed as children hear and use language,
working with the children or providing support on listen to stories and poetry, sing songs and learn
excursions. Families are welcome to come in to the ELC rhymes. Make-believe and role play is fundamental
at any time to observe their child and/or to view the in the development of language. We believe young
ELC in operation. children learn best through play. For this reason, play
experiences are planned and evolve through the
In order to protect the rights and interests of all
creativity and inquiries of the children.
children in the Centre, adults (parents, grandparents,
guardians) are required to behave within certain
guidelines. A set of guidelines has been developed to
Policies and Procedures
help parents to establish appropriate ways of dealing A copy of the ELC Policies and Procedures document
with children other than their own while at the ELC. is available for viewing inside the ELC.2018 ELC Parent Handbook | 15
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Privacy / Confidentiality Rest Time
The ELC protects the privacy and confidentiality The educators at the ELC consider rest time an
of individuals. All records and information about important respite for the children from the stimulating
individual children, families, staff, management and and challenging experiences they engage in each day.
others are: Each child’s comfort will be provided for and there
++ appropriate to providing quality care will be appropriate opportunities to meet each child’s
++ sensitively and accurately collected and recorded sleep, rest and relaxation needs. Mats are provided
++ kept in a protected filing system and families provide pillows which are sent home each
++ accessed by or disclosed to only those people who term for cleaning.
need the information to fulfill their responsibilities
at the Centre or have a legal right to know. Safe Environment
The Concordia College Privacy Policy is available via The ELC aims to provide a safe environment for
the school website (www.concordia.sa.edu.au) children and educators through maintaining high
standards of safety for equipment, building and
Public Holidays / grounds, as well as maintaining safe practices.
Pupil Free Days
If your child’s booked days fall on a public holiday
Sickness
or whole-school pupil free day, normal fees apply. Parents are asked to keep children home for a
The ELC is open on pupil free days and children are period of 24 hours after vomiting or diarrhoea has
welcome to attend if they are enrolled on that day. stopped, to safeguard the health of other children and
educators. Children with a runny nose or a heavy cold
Recycled Materials should be kept at home to minimise the spread of
disease. Parents will be contacted to collect their child
Donations of recycled materials for construction
from the ELC if they present as being unwell. Please
experiences are always welcome. We would
inform us if your child has a communicable disease
appreciate empty boxes, ribbon, wool, wood off-
so that we can look for similar symptoms in the other
cuts, buttons, magazines or any other clean materials
children. Please inform us when your child has an
suitable for creative activities. Please do not send in
infectious disease or skin infection e.g
toilet roll cylinders and please check medicine boxes/
++ chicken pox
containers carefully to ensure they are empty.
++ measles
++ mumps
Resource Centre Borrowing ++ school sores
ELC children will have the opportunity to borrow from ++ head lice
the school Resource Centre twice a week. Children are ++ conjunctivitis.
provided with a borrowing bag. Families are welcome
to borrow resources from our ELC Parent Library. Single Subject Lessons
Children are welcome to borrow literacy packs which
Children in the ELC will have the opportunity to
include a book and a learning experience. Literacy
experience the single subjects of Art, Physical
packs are stored on a hanging file outside the ELC.
Education, Library, German and Music. Through these
specialist subjects we endeavour to give children a
wide variety of learning experiences each week.2018 ELC Parent Handbook | 16
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Social Development Technology
The ELC will provide an early childhood programme The ELC recognises the increasing prevalence of
that facilitates the development of personal and technology in children’s lives. The use of iPads,
interpersonal skills, enabling children to engage computers, media and music will be used to enhance
in effective interaction and participate in a variety children’s learning. It will be balanced by other natural
of group settings. Social skills are critical life skills, experiences, including accessing the outdoor areas,
which are learned. Adults play a significant role in manipulating creative materials, construction etc.
modelling and teaching social skills. Educator and Children in the ELC will have access to a personalised
parent interaction with children builds a basis for iPad. These will be provided by and stored at the
those children’s relationships with peers and adults in ELC, and taken home for sharing with parents
the future. on occasions.
Student Teacher and Toys
Professional Involvement Children are discouraged from bringing toys from
Our ELC supports the development of professional home to the ELC. A soft cuddle item for emotional
educators and therefore provides regular placements support is acceptable.
for University students in Early Childhood fields.
Transition
SunSmart Concordia College educators recognise that a child’s
The ELC adopts the SunSmart Policy as transition from home to the ELC is an important
recommended by the Cancer Council to ensure that time and work to ease that transition so the child
all children attending the Centre are protected from can be helped to settle quickly. Educators recognise
skin damage caused by the harmful ultraviolet rays the importance of both the parents’ and children’s
of the sun. From 1 September until 30 April, when the feelings at this time, and will make themselves
UV rating is Level 3 and above, educators will apply available to listen and respond. In Term 4, an
sunscreen to the children. Sunscreen is available at the orientation visit to the ELC is arranged for all children
ELC for families to use. who will be entering the ELC during the following year.
A transition visit is also scheduled in the beginning of
Please notify staff if your child has an allergy to
the year that the children commence.
sunscreen and provide a suitable alternative. Children
will need to bring a clearly named hat. An ELC spare The ELC transition to Reception is ongoing
hat is available in case a hat is left at home. throughout the year as children interact informally
with the Reception teachers and the wider school
Sustainability community. In Term 4 we have a series of three visits
to the classrooms for all children who will be entering
We value sustainability and endeavour to model Reception in the following year. The ELC teachers
sustainable practices. We encourage children to be consult with the Reception teachers on the most
responsible citizens and to care for our environment. appropriate class placements, with an emphasis
We recycle, re-use and conserve wherever possible. on supporting positive friendships. An information
Children are involved in growing fruit and vegetables, evening is held each year in Term 4 for parents
composting and reducing waste through ‘nude food’. with children starting in the ELC and Reception the
following year.2018 ELC Parent Handbook | 17
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Uniform Volunteers and Visitors
ELC children wear the school sports uniform. This Volunteers may be invited to the ELC to contribute
consists of: to the diversity of experiences for the children.
++ Navy shorts or track pants and a Volunteers are supplementary to educator
navy/yellow polo shirt requirements and will not be used to replace staff.
++ Navy/yellow rugby jumper Volunteers will be supervised at all times.
++ White socks
All volunteers in Lutheran Schools must have a current
++ Sandshoes – velcro rather than laces
police check and complete a short online course
(to encourage independence)
called Valuing Safe Communities. A link to apply for
++ Blue sandals – velcro if possible
a police check and the Valuing Safe Communities
++ Navy school bucket hat
training can be found on the College website’s parent
++ Water resistant jacket (optional)
portal/School Information/Quick Links.
++ School backpack (highly recommended).
All regular volunteers in Early Education and Care
The uniform is available from the Concordia College
settings require a Department for Communities and
School Shop at 23 Winchester Street, Highgate.
Social Inclusion (DCSI) screening check https://
We request that all items of clothing, shoes and bags screening.dcsi.sa.gov.au/ instead of a police check.
are clearly named.
Play is children’s work and parents should be aware What to Bring
that children’s clothing may become soiled by paint, ++ Backpack
mud, sand and so on during the normal experiences ++ Drink bottle (water only)
at the Centre. Educators make all possible attempts ++ Fruit, lunch and a healthy snack (no nuts), Chips,
to cover children’s clothing with a protective apron lollies and chocolate are discouraged
during messy play. ++ Hat
++ Small cushion for rest time (to stay at school
Universal Access during term time).
Non-government preschools such as Concordia Everything your child brings to the ELC must
College ELC are eligible for funding subsidies from the be named.
Australian Government for each four year-old child
We hope your child enjoys their time spent in the ELC
accessing care. To ensure two preschool providers
and if you have any further questions, please don’t
are not claiming funding for the same child we ask
hesitate to contact our friendly staff.
parents to disclose if their child is attending more than
one service.20 Highgate Street, Highgate, SA 5063 t. 08 8271 4299 e. sjmail@concordia.sa.edu.au www.concordia.sa.edu.au
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