RedLeaf School of Early Learning is nestled between mixed semi-rural and residential homes in the developing estates of ‘Kingsmore’ and ‘The Observatory’ at Reedy Creek, 6km from Burleigh Heads, 13km south of Surfers Paradise and 500m from the Motorway 1 (Pacific Highway) at 7 Wyllie Way, Reedy Creek.
The building is constructed from mixed mediums enabling it to blend seamlessly into the natural environment and it is designed to provide a uniquely Australian appearance. Raised play spaces have been incorporated in the indoor and the outdoor studios. By designing raised play spaces in both of these environments, we have endeavoured to give children a different visual perspective so different learning experiences can be achieved.
The Centre’s outdoor studio includes many natural features including; natural grass playgrounds with shade, children’s vegetable and herb gardens, sensory gardens, mounds, secret hiding places and bush cubbies. We have also incorporated wind chimes, forts, seating, sandpits, twig tunnels, platforms, slides, arbours and various musical instruments into the outdoor area.
The development philosophy adopted at RedLeaf School of Early Learning is an integration of three educational approaches: the Schools of Reggio Emilia in Italy, Montessori and the traditional classroom.
The Reggio Emilia philosophy is based on the principles that children must be able to learn through experiences of touching, moving, listening, seeing, and hearing and must have endless ways and opportunities to express
themselves. The Montessori method stresses the importance of adapting the child's learning environment to his or her developmental level, and of the role of physical activity in absorbing academic concepts and practical skills. Combining the best elements of these approaches ensures the ‘whole’ child will have their individual needs met, in a calm, harmonious environment that is free from bias and prejudice, and that encourages children to develop socially, intellectually and emotionally as well as sparking their imaginations and creative instincts. It is accepted that children learn through play and it is through play-experiences that children learn to make sense of the world around them. We believe that children develop best in a nurturing, loving, and responsive environment, one that promises a commitment to children and supports a variety of learning opportunities where children are free to explore. Our objective is to create meaningful experiences for children that extend their cognitive, language, physical and socio-emotional development. The physical environment plays an important part in our development philosophy. We have incorporated a blend of natural and contemporary building materials in the studios making them warm and inviting and they are filled with books, art and puzzles with relaxation music in the background. The program is inspired by children’s curiosity and imagination. Our staff will observe children’s play and listen carefully to children’s questions so they may support emergent projects and creations that come directly from the children instead of the staff. In small group work teams and large group free choice activities, staff provide invitations to the children on topics they express interest in. Under this approach children will learn to view themselves as contributing members of the school community. Every child is an individual, and we respect and value differences, and look with an open mind at all members of the community, making them understand that they are valued for who they are. The RedLeaf School of Early Learning endorses and supports family values. We want all of the families to feel that they are an integral part of the Centre and welcome input and suggestions. We encourage all of the families to be actively involved in their child’s studio and in Centre activities and events. RedLeaf School of Early Learning would like to be known as ‘like a big family’ – a place where people really care and try to help each other with the important job of raising happy, capable children.
RedLeaf School of Early Learning is committed to providing an enriching and challenging developmental environment where each child is encouraged to grow to their fullest potential emotionally, socially and intellectually. Children will learn about their day-to-day environment and about themselves. Our aim is to develop a love of learning which we hope will stay with them for life.
Our goal is for all children to feel positive about themselves and their experiences. Staff use a positive approach while educating, caring and disciplining. The result for your child will be a balance of learning, love, security, freedom, independence, consideration for others and a feeling of self worth.
We hope that you too will find RedLeaf School of Early Learning a comfortable place for your child, where lasting memories and friendships will be made.