Kindergartens: our approach

Discover our approach to early learning in our services. We are an Early Years Management (EYM) organisation in Victoria, operating kindergartens cross many Councils and Shires.

Mixed age grouping

Mixed age groups in kindergarten offers several benefits that support children’s development and social skills. Younger children learn from older peers, while older children reinforce their own understanding by teaching younger children. This peer learning creates a dynamic and engaging learning environment. Additionally, mixed age groups help children build friendships across different ages, fostering social skills and empathy.

Mixed age groups also supports flexible learning, allowing each child to progress at their own pace.  Whether a child is ready for more advanced activities or needs extra time with foundational skills, mixed age grouping accommodates their individual learning needs.

Older children benefit by taking on leadership roles, boosting their confidence and sense of responsibility. This creates a family-like, inclusive environment where every child feels valued and included.

Mixed age grouping helps all children thrive in a supportive and diverse setting, enhancing their learning and personal growth.

Team teaching

At some of our kindergartens, we use a team teaching approach. This means two or more Early Childhood Teachers work closely together to plan and deliver the program each day. Instead of working separately, they share responsibility for your child’s learning, development, and wellbeing. This approach helps create a more supportive, consistent, and engaging environment for all children.

Why team teaching benefits your child

With more than one qualified educator actively involved, your child benefits from a wider range of learning experiences, closer attention, and stronger relationships. Team teaching also means educators can better support each child’s unique needs and learning style, creating a safe and stimulating space for everyone to grow and thrive. 

7.5 hour sessions

Some of our kindergartens offer 7.5-hour sessions, providing children extended time to explore, build relationships, and engage in meaningful play. These longer sessions support a calm, unhurried environment where children can develop a strong sense of identity, wellbeing, and confidence as learners.

With more time each day, educators can respond more deeply to children’s interests, encourage curiosity, and support learning through play, all key principles of the Victorian Early Years Learning Framework (VEYLF). These extended sessions also give children time to practice important social skills, build independence, and feel a strong sense of belonging in their learning community.

 

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One Tree Community Services acknowledges the Traditional Owners and custodians of country where we operate. In the spirit of reconciliation, we recognise their continuing cultural connections to their land, waters and communities. We pay our respect to their Elders both past and present and to all First Australians of today.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people should be aware that this website may contain images, voices and names of deceased persons.

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