Pymble OSHC is committed to the provision of high-quality care and education. We achieve this by:
- Facilitating a smooth transition from the school day to the complementary setting of the OSHC.
- Creating a learning environment that is informed both by the My Time, Our Place – Framework for School Age Care in Australia and the College’s core values of Care, Courage, Integrity, Respect and Responsibility. The services we provide are focused on the following:
BELONGING
Knowing where, and with whom you belong.
BEING
Recognising the significance of the here and now.
BECOMING
Emphasising learning through play as a key to participating fully and actively in society.
- Employing trusted, credentialed educators who provide a safe environment for children. The high staff-to-child ratio gives educators ample time to assist with homework, to develop activities that reflect the interests of the children and to implement programs that promote their Wellbeing.
- Supplying quality resources in sufficient quantities. This enables all children to engage in the activities of their choice. A wide variety of play spaces including playgrounds, soft fall spaces and indoor and outdoor sectors allows children to participate in a range of supervised activities where they can interact, develop skills and cultivate an appreciation of their natural and built environments.
- Building positive relationships with parents – who we acknowledge as children’s first educators – with open and effective communications that respect and value diversity of culture.
At Pymble Ladies’ College OSHC, our philosophy guides our approach to providing enriching care and education beyond the school day. Grounded in our steadfast commitment to holistic development and vibrant community engagement, our centre strives to cultivate a nurturing environment that fosters the growth and well-being of all children. Acknowledging the land on which we are learning, we pay respect to the Darramuragal Country, andvrecognise the people, history, culture and traditions that have come before us.
Acknowledging the College’s history, we incorporate the school motto, “strive for the highest,” into our practice. This integration is seamlessly embedded in our daily routines, which also align with the school’s core values of respect, responsibility, care, courage, and integrity.
In our pursuit of developing lifelong learners, we actively strive to nurture a sense of Being, Becoming, and Belonging. Celebrating uniqueness, we provide opportunities for children to express their autonomy and explore personal interests in a safe, inclusive space. Our dedicated Educators serve as positive role models, intentionally providing support and learning experiences.
Drawing inspiration from Constructivist, Social Learning, and Ecological System Theories, our pedagogical approach is grounded in play-based learning, fostering social, cognitive, and emotional development. In line with the My Time Our Place learning framework, our approach places strong emphasis on the benefits of learning through play and respect for diversity. Our curriculum is thoughtfully designed to provide diverse learning experiences that encourages children to take ownership of their learning journey, fostering a genuine love for exploration and growth. We believe that by empowering children to actively contribute to their learning, they will develop the confidence and skills necessary to become lifelong learners.
Recognising the collective effort required to support children’s growth, wellbeing, and development, we collaborate closely with parents, teachers, and the community. Together, we create a network of support that enriches each child’s experience. At the heart of our service is a commitment to meaningful and open dialogue with these support networks.
By fostering self-expression, building meaningful relationships, and instilling resilience, our goal is to empower children to become courageous, capable and kind individuals who eagerly embrace challenges. We acknowledge and honour each child’s potential to contribute to their play experiences, respecting their agency and rights to participate in decisions that impact them. Our learning opportunities are tailored to the unique curiosities and abilities of children, facilitating the empowerment of individuals to thrive as learners. Inclusivity lies at the heart of our approach, where we champion kindness and integrity. Our program dedicates time and space to the development of both same and cross-age friendships, guiding children in learning to know, to do, to be, and to live together.
With ever-changing global experiences, we believe it is important that children are conscious of diversity, equity and how their actions contribute to the world around them. Our Sustainability practices recognise Australian First Nations
People’s respect for Country, care for the land and ties to community. We endeavour to inspire children to become responsive caretakers of their own land, Country and community, remembering that sustainable practices means, there will be enough for all, forever.
We believe in the power of ongoing reflection and growth. Regular assessment and evaluation ensures that our practices remain aligned with our goals. Through meaningful reflection and feedback from children, staff, parents and stakeholders, we continually refine our approach to ensure that every child’s needs are met. Encompassing the school’s strategic vision, our assessment and evaluation processes reflect the uniqueness of our service and are integral in supporting the school’s commitment to creating influential and compassionate young girls and women.
In essence, Pymble Ladies’ College OSHC is dedicated to nurturing children’s growth and well-being, grounded in core values, and upheld through collaborative efforts. Our philosophy guides us in our mission to empower the next generation of confident, compassionate, and capable individuals. As we embark on this shared journey of learning and development, our aim is to provide an open, enriching environment that encourages exploration, growth, and a strong connection to community and land.