PROGRAMS & LEARNING
Family Grouping
At Goanna Patch, all children aged 0–5 years share one beautiful learning environment. This “family grouping” approach allows younger and older children to learn alongside one another, just like in a family. It creates a warm, supportive atmosphere where siblings can stay together, children build friendships across ages, and older children develop responsibility and leadership while younger ones learn from their peers.Within this shared space, we also offer two tailored educational programs:
0-3 Years Program
Our youngest children benefit from nurturing relationships, sensory exploration, and experiences that build early communication, social and motor skills. Educators follow each child’s cues and routines, creating a gentle foundation for future learning.
3-5 Years Preschool Program
Preschoolers take part in a program designed to extend their independence, curiosity, and problem-solving skills. They engage in dedicated school readiness experiences throughout the day, including early literacy and numeracy, group projects, and opportunities to practice routines that prepare them for a smooth transition to school.
LEARNING AT GOANNA PATCH
Play-based Learning
Play is at the centre of everything we do. Through play, children experiment, imagine, problem-solve and explore new ideas. Educators support children with both spontaneous and planned experiences, following their interests while gently extending their learning. Whether it’s building with blocks, painting, gardening, or role play, every activity is a chance to learn and grow.
School Readiness
We prepare children for school by focusing on the skills that matter most: independence, social confidence, resilience and a love of learning. Our preschool program supports early literacy, numeracy, and critical thinking through fun, hands-on activities. We also help children practice routines like self-help, turn-taking and teamwork, giving them the confidence to thrive in the classroom and beyond.
Music & Physical Movement
Music and movement are an important part of daily life at Goanna Patch. Through singing, dancing, rhythm, yoga, and active outdoor play, children build coordination, strength, and body awareness while expressing themselves creatively. These experiences support wellbeing, confidence, and emotional regulation, helping children connect with their bodies, each other, and the joy of movement.
STEM Learning
STEM learning at Goanna Patch encourages children to be curious, ask questions, and explore how the world works. Through hands-on experiences with science, technology, engineering and mathematics, such as experimenting, building, problem-solving and observing nature, children develop critical thinking and persistence. These playful investigations lay strong foundations for future learning and nurture a lifelong love of discovery.
Inclusion & Belonging
Goanna Patch is a place where every child and family is welcomed and celebrated. We embrace diversity in culture, language, family structure and ability, ensuring all children feel a strong sense of identity and belonging. Our educators create inclusive learning experiences that empower children to value difference, respect others and challenge unfairness- lessons they will carry for life.
Sustainability
Living in Bundeena, surrounded by the beauty of the Royal National Park, we understand the importance of caring for our world. Sustainability is embedded in our daily practice, from recycling and gardening to conserving water and learning about local wildlife. We encourage children to think about their choices and to grow up as responsible caretakers of the environment.
