Here is what we know to be true. Balance beams, paint and dress-ups have everything to do with learning and growing. So for our youngest learners, a state-of-the-art, purpose built Early Learning Centre sets the scene for little people to take big adventures in a program that honours the role of play in teaching and learning.
The ELC signals the beginning of your child’s learning journey at HVGS and you can rest assured that they will discover a place where they truly belong and a safe and nurturing ‘home away from home’ with us.
This is just the beginning. Read on to discover more.
Interested in the ELC?
- Preschoolers are ripe for enrichment. Starting in the Early Learning Centre at HVGS sets your child up for success right from the very early years.
- Located on the School campus, children attending our ELC have access to outstanding facilities and invaluable learning opportunities.
- The ELC caters for up to 60 little learners each day.
- Our structured Transition to School Program ensures that the whole family is prepared and ready for big school at HVGS.
- We invite new families starting in our ELC the following year to join us for Orientation Visits prior to starting.
- Our ELC educators are qualified and experienced professionals. With a youthful spirit they each have a passion for early childhood education.
- We accept children from 3 years of age.
- Visit our Enrolment FAQs to read more about days of attendance in the ELC.
- It can be hard to juggle work with the preschool pickup, that’s why we offer Out of School Care right here on the school site.
- Our fees for 2023 are located here.
- NSW preschools must adhere to Priority of Access Guidelines. Read more here.
- To visit our ELC, book into our next Open Morning or arrange a personal tour on our Book a Tour page.
- Sarah Bilton-Smith is the Director of our Early Learning Centre. Contact Sarah
- As a licensed service we adhere to the Education and Care Services National Regulations (2016).
Nurturing the whole child
Preschool Program
The preschool program is influenced by the principles of the Reggio Emelia philosophy and delivered within the framework of the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme (PYP). Our learning programs are underpinned by the School’s Values for Life which promises every child a character-focused education. Programs are developed in line with the curriculum guidelines for early childhood education.
Early Learning Centre
Our Early Learning Centre is an incubator for imagination. It’s bright contemporary design makes it one of the most exciting and stimulating early childhood environments in the Hunter region. It's so popular with families - we've added an exciting new extension to cater for more preschoolers!
Discover More
Nurturing the whole child
We take a holistic approach to teaching and learning - developing children's social, emotional, intellectual and physical self. Inquisitive young minds blossom through experiences that allow them to question, wonder, inquire, experiment, explore and discover.
Our Educators
The connection between children and their carers and teachers is so special. Our educators understand the role they play in nurturing our preschoolers. They form positive and warm relationships with children and families and as experienced professionals, they provide experiences which place children at the very heart of their practice.
STEM Extension
Pre-schoolers are naturally and intentionally curious so our brand new Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) room extension is a fascinating space. All five senses are active here and working on complex problems and questions, lead to exciting discoveries.
Get Ready for Kindy
Students enrolled in our ELC have the benefit of a comprehensive transition program to Kindergarten at HVGS.
During Terms 3 and 4 our preschoolers enjoy fortnightly visits to Kindergarten classrooms so they feel comfortable and confident with the Kindy experience when the time comes.
Our Transition to School Program is collaboratively planned and evaluated and many of the activities and experiences undertaken during these visits are integrated into the preschool program.
Our educators will work with families to ensure a smooth transition to school for children not continuing at HVGS.
“I went to Kindergarten and I made some friends. I had a sandwich and some custard. I had fun. I got some glitter!”
Stephanie, HVGS Preschooler
ELC Snapshot
Recognition of Excellence
Our Early Learning Centre and our Early Childhood Educators are award winning! In 2022 they won the Large Community Regional Service of the Year Award at this year’s Excellence in Early Education Awards. Special congratulations also to our ELC Director Sarah Bilton-Smith who was awarded the Regional Educator Leader Excellence Award.
Parent Involvement
We know that parents and families are children’s first teachers and the centre of their child’s world. Our parents are talented individuals who have knowledge, skills, interests and ideas to enhance our program.
We love parent contributions, in fact, some of our very best learning experiences have resulted from fantastic parent participation!
National Quality Rating
Our Early Learning Centre has been rated as Exceeding National Quality Standards set by the Australian Children’s Education and Care Authority.
More information
VIEW THE ELC HANDBOOK 2024
Key Contacts
Sarah Bilton-Smith is the Director of our Early Learning Centre. She’s also the is the Nominated Supervisor and the Educational Leader for our service. Contact Sarah
Happy, bold and bright.
