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PROSPECTUS 2015

Montessori Children’s HouseABN 86 010 125 470

19 Wienholt Street, Auchenflower 4066 Telephone: (07) 3371 7090

Email:[email protected] Website: www.montessori-auchenflower.com.au

A Kindergarten affiliated with Lady Gowrie Queensland

A Queensland GovernmentK ndergarten

Approved Program provider

and a member of The Montessori Australia Foundation (MAF)

http://www.montessori-auchenflower.com.au/

mailto:[email protected]

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1. STRUCTURE.....................................................................................................................................................3

2. THE CENTRE'S PHILOSOPHY OF EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION...........................................3

3. MONTESSORI CHILDREN’S HOUSE: PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE.............................................4

4. THE AIMS OF THE MONTESSORI CHILDREN'S HOUSE LTD.............................................................6

5. GOALS FOR THE CHILD...............................................................................................................................6

6. STAFF.................................................................................................................................................................7

7. MANAGEMENT OF CENTRE....................................................................................................................... 9

8. THE OPERATION OF THE CENTRE...........................................................................................................9

9. PARENT INVOLVEMENT............................................................................................................................10

10. DAY TO DAY PRACTICALITIES.............................................................................................................13

11. HEALTH.........................................................................................................................................................17

12. SAFETY EMERGENCY AND EVACUATION PROCEDURES.............................................................18

13. COMPLIANCE LOG BOOK.....................................................................................................................189

14. TERM DATES 2013 AND PUPIL FREE DAYS........................................................................................19

15. ASPECTS OF THE PROGRAMME...........................................................................................................19

16. MONTESSORI IN THE HOME..................................................................................................................21

17. PARENT LENDING LIBRARY..................................................................................................................22

18. SUGGESTED READING LIST...................................................................................................................22

19. FEES AND LEVIES.......................................................................................................................................23

20. STRATEGIC PLAN 2012-2016.................................................................................................................... 26

1. STRUCTURE

The Montessori Children's House (MCH) is a non-profit parent run Kindergarten, affiliated with Lady Gowrie Queensland and supported by an Early Childhood Education and Coordinator (ECECC). A Committee of parents, elected by parents at the Annual General Meeting, holds office for the ensuing year and is responsible for the management of the Montessori Children's House.

Adjacent to MCH and under its umbrella is the Montessori Infants’ House (MIH). It is a non-profit Playgroup for children aged 0-3 years. Parents and children are guided by an experienced Montessori guide through a range of experiences in a Montessori environment.

The Montessori Children’s House is licensed by the Department of Education and Training under the Education and Care Services National Law Act 2010 and the Education and Care Services National Regulations 2011.

MCH must meet the requirements set down for the children’s educational learning, experiences and programmes, ratios of staff to children and staff member’s qualifications according to the legislation.

The Office for Early Childhood Education and Care phone number is (07)3634 0532.

2. THE CENTRE'S PHILOSOPHY OF EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION2.1 Montessori

The Children's House follows the Montessori Method of education. This method was developed by Dr Maria Montessori (1870-1952), who was the first female Italian medical doctor. She developed the method over many years working with and observing children in the learning process. Being a scientist with an open-minded approach to education, Dr Montessori was able to make her great discoveries.

Dr Montessori observed stages of development within the individual and from this evolved her method comprising an educational pedagogy and accompanying teaching materials. This method is based on individual guidance according to the child's specific and immediate needs.

Dr Montessori described the child's mind as the ABSORBENT MIND because of the great ability of the child to learn and assimilate effortlessly and unconsciously from the world around. She observed what she described as SENSITIVE PERIODS in the child's life when special concentration of effort is shown by the child to acquire certain capabilities, and these are the optimum periods for learning particular concepts. She also observed the child's need for order, independence and repetition in mastering a skill.

At the Children's House an atmosphere of cheerful orderliness, calmness and purposeful work is fostered. The child is free to choose activities from practical life, sensorial, mathematics, language and cultural materials. The child works individually or in small groups, being careful not to interrupt another child at work. The child enjoys and learns from repetition. The teacher, sensitive to the child's development and progress, introduces new materials at the appropriate time. When a child finishes an activity, he/she is expected to re-arrange it in its place, ready for the next person to use.

Independent effort is encouraged and protected, concentration is allowed to grow and individuality is honoured. Dr Montessori believed that children have an innate positive attitude towards learning. This is fostered at the Children's House.

The dignity and the rights of the child are respected at all times. Positive guidance is used to assist a child to substitute appropriate for inappropriate behaviour.

2.2 Lady Gowrie Affiliation and Curriculum

The Children’s House is affiliated with Lady Gowrie and as such has embraced the curriculum known as Queensland Kindergarten Learning Guidelines.

The Queensland Kindergarten Learning Guidelines is based on the Early Years Learning Framework for Australia (EYLF) and embraces the inclusive vision that all children experience learning that is engaging and builds success for life.

The guideline describes a set of five learning and development areas that relate to the five broad learning outcomes identified in the EYLF:

Identity Children have a strong sense of identityConnectedness Children are connected with and contribute to their worldWellbeing Children have a strong sense of wellbeingActive Learning Children are confident and involved learnersCommunicating Children are effective communicators.

3. MONTESSORI CHILDREN’S HOUSE: PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE

On top of a hill in Auchenflower, there is a horse stable surrounded by gardens, where forty children gather to learn ...

In 1913, the Auchenflower Presbyterian Church was established in the stables of Rathdonnell House. A front portico was added to the stone-based stables, which gave the building an ecclesiastical tone, and the windows were replaced with rippled magenta and green panels. The building became the church hall when a new church was built for the Auchenflower Presbyterian Church in 1957. Since 1983, the stables on the picture have housed the MCH. Photograph by John Pearn, 1979, with permission

“The horse stable on top of the hill in Wienholt Street in Auchenflower, Brisbane has a long history, which always has been related to education. It was built in 1865 as the original stable of Randall MacDonnell's great Rathdonnell Estate. A neighbouring estate called Auchenflower, meaning "field of flowers", later gave its name to the area.

Randall MacDonnell was born in Dublin and trained there as a teacher. In 1854, he immigrated to Sydney and established a private school. In 1860, he moved to Queensland where, for the remaining 17 years of his short life, his advocacy for improved education for the State's children was most significant. MacDonnell was appointed General Inspector of Primary Schools in 1860, and Secretary to the Board of General Education in 1870. In 1875, he became the first General Inspector of the newly established Department of Public Instruction, and held that position until he died of tuberculosis the following year.

We trust that Randall MacDonnell would be happy with what he would find in his stable today....

Rathdonnell Estate was sold and subdivided in 1911, and by 1913, the Auchenflower Presbyterian Church was established in the stable. In 1957, the stable became the church hall of a newly built, wooden Auchenflower Presbyterian Church.

In 1983, the church hall became available for lease for educational purposes. Thus was established the Montessori Children's House - a preschool and kindergarten of great significance, not only in the history of education but also in the unending quest to find an appropriate education which might lead to optimal personal fulfilment in later life, and to world peace and understanding. This school provides a superb and enlightened education for 40 children, all in the three-to-six year old Cycle One of the Montessori program. This wonderful facility is a non-profit, parent-run kindergarten, which prepares children for a lifetime of learning.

We look forward with great hope that the Montessori Children's House can continue to contribute to the rich history of both the building that has stood on this site since 1865, and the dream - of excellent children's education - of the man who built it there”.

Excerpt and photograph from Auchenflower – the suburb and the name by John Pearn, Amphion Press, Brisbane. Reprinted with the author’s permission.

The ongoing evolvement of the Montessori Children’s House:

In May 1980, the Montessori Children’s House (MCH) was incorporated as a company limited by guarantee. This gave the advantage of "limited liability" to members and a committee elected by the parent is responsible for the running of the Children's House. During their term of office, the Committee were the registered directors of the Company.

In September 1980, the Committee began a search for new premises as their St Lucia house was being sold. The house at 17 Cadell Street, Toowong was chosen as it had the best potential for gaining Council approval and would enable MCH to expand.

MCH opened at Cadell Street in February 1981, after a great deal of effort and considerable funds spent on renovations required by Brisbane City Council (BCC). It was able to offer a morning and an afternoon session, both of three hours duration, with approximately 18 children in each session.

The Children's House had to vacate the premises at Cadell Street at the end of 1983 and new premises were found at the Uniting Church, 19 Wienholt Street, Auchenflower. A new annex was built on to the existing church hall in accordance with our needs. MCH was then licensed by the BCC to operate as a Day Care Centre. The Children’s House leased the property from the Uniting Church.

In 1984, the Children’s House was granted affiliation with the Crèche & Kindergarten Association of Queensland (C&K). As well as recognition and professional support from the Association, we were eligible for financial assistance from Government funding. We remained affiliated with C & K until January 2011.

With changes to the funding regime in 2010, government funding for kindergartens became available from a number of “Central Governing Bodies” (CGBs). In February 2011, the Management Committee and Director decided to appoint Lady Gowrie Community Kindergartens as our CGB.

Lady Gowrie Consultants are responsible for monitoring the standards in relation to the educational program, building and playground design as required for ongoing affiliation with the Gowrie Queensland.

As well, the Consultants act as authorized personnel on behalf of the Office for Early Childhood Education and Care (ph 3634 0532). The Consultants are therefore responsible for overseeing the licensing of Lady Gowrie affiliated kindergartens.

The Children's House continued to grow and the ultimate aim was for permanent premises owned by the Children's House and was achieved at the beginning of 2004. The Uniting Church decided to sell the whole block, which included the Children’s House section and the adjacent property and church. The Children’s House purchased the whole block.

A Playgroup had been set up in the church next door. In July 2005, the Playgroup was brought under the umbrella of the Children’s House and it is called the Montessori Infants’ House (MIH). The Infants’ House is open to parents and children, five mornings a week.

Facilities, resources, play areas and gardens continue to be developed throughout the whole block. This ongoing evolvement over the years has been made possible by the strong involvement of parents in working bees, grant applications, generous donations and fundraising.

4. THE AIMS OF THE MONTESSORI CHILDREN'S HOUSE LTD

(i) Deliver a high quality Montessori based kindergarten program. (ii) Foster the development, growth and support of the Montessori style of education in

Brisbane.(iii) Encourage communication with all educationalists so that greater understanding

may eventuate.(iv) Emphasise the necessary commitment and support of parents to the centre.(v) Provide staff with the best possible conditions to undertake their educational role.

5. GOALS FOR THE CHILD

This centre actively promotes sustainability and encourages children, families and staff to protect the environment in learning techniques and modes of living, which will preserve and restore the environment. For example, careful use of water is encouraged. Paper and other products are recycled where appropriate. Pest control is carried out annually.

All animals, insects and plants are treated with care and respect while appropriate observation for children's information is made. Trees and shrubs indigenous to our particular area are planted to give effective shade and to provide food and habitat for birds and other wildlife.

Care is taken of the natural surroundings. This involves the thoughtful disposal of litter, hygienic composting of lawn clippings and fruit waste for soil enrichment and maintenance of vegetable and flower gardens.

We have created an open and reflective curriculum framework to engage children and our Montessori trained Early Childhood Educators collaboratively in the process of learning. Our objective is to affirm meaningful partnerships, embrace the right for all children to peace, dignity, tolerance and equality, to honour the aspirations and unique nature of the individual, and to establish and promote connections and continuities that recognise children’s past, present and future living and learning experiences. We emphasise the importance of play in a child’s educational journey.

The children at the Montessori Children's House will leave with the knowledge of their own self-worth, a love of learning and a strong foundation on which to reach their full potential.

6. STAFF

The Children’s House is fortunate to have the expertise and experience of professional, conscientious and dedicated people on staff and your child will be educated by the following staff in our cohesive single unit facility:-

Director /Educational Leader- Jan Luff

Jan has a Diploma in Teaching, Early Childhood, Brisbane Kindergarten Teachers College and a Degree, Bachelor of Education, QUT Kelvin Grove. She has also completed a Montessori Diploma, Montessori World Educational Institute (M.W.E.I.)

Having travelled in many parts of the world, Jan has worked in London, Paris, Vancouver and Seattle. Cultural aspects of Australia and other countries are developed within the programme at the children’s’ level. The cultural heritage of the parents and children is incorporated in her planning.

At the Montessori Children’s House Jan’s priorities are:

To formulate and deliver a high quality, inclusive and educational program incorporating a play based curriculum, which will provide children with a secure nurturing environment.

To ensure quality service delivery which provides young children with a secure and nurturing environment and serves to meet the needs of the community.

To be an advocate for children and children’s rights. To oversee the overall operation of the centre. To oversee the development of the educational programme which promotes the

individual development of all the children. It is developed in cooperation with the parents. The programme reflects the respect of all cultures within our community.

To ensure a safe and healthy work environment for everyone. To promote the centre and Lady Gowrie to the local community. To ensure that all communication is conducted in a professional and courteous manner

(including content, delivery and body language). To guide the children according to the shared principles of the Montessori approach

and the key concepts expressed by the state and national curriculums.

There are two Permanent Assistants, one full time and one part time.

Full Time Assistant Teacher- Jasmine RawsonJasmine has completed her Bachelor of Education in Early Childhood at The University of Melbourne. She has recently enrolled with The Montessori World Educational Institute (MWEI) to complete her Montessori Graduate Diploma.

She has extensive experience within the Children’s Services in Victoria, New South Wales and Queensland. She has spent the majority of her career working with children with additional needs.

Part time Teaching Assistant- Lucy McGinley – Lucy has recently completed her Diploma of Children’s Services. Lucy has been connected to MIH and MCH as a parent, Committee Member, Playgroup Facilitator and now at MCH as an Educator. Lucy has travelled and worked in many areas in the UK. Lucy has a passion for art and craft. She continues to study Montessori.

The priorities of the two assistants are to:

Assist the Director in developing the curriculum. Maintain the environment and equipment in a safe, hygienic and aesthetically pleasing

state. Work as an effective team member. Assist the Director in the delivery of a high quality, inclusive and educational program,

that will provide the children with a secure nurturing environment. Minimise stress in young children when separated from their families. Promote the centre and Lady Gowrie to the local community.

First Aid Qualification s

All staff hold a current First Aid Certificate as required by the Education and Care Services National Law Act 2010 and the Education and Care Services National Regulations 2011.

http://www.legislation.qld.gov.au

Staff Professional Development

This centre actively supports the ongoing professional development of all staff members through their attendance at courses, seminars, workshops and conferences. Financial assistance is given. The Queensland College of Teachers requires the Director to participate in 30 hours of professional development each year. Each staff member is encouraged to develop an ongoing approach to planning her professional development and her career.

Child-Free Preparation Time

The Management and Lady Gowrie recognise the value of child-free time before and after the daily session, as well as scheduled pupil free days. During this time, the staff prepares the environment, plan and document the programme and administration records, attend staff meetings, and professional development meetings. These duties serve to enhance the quality of the program offered to parents and children.

Student Teacher Placement

This centre recognises the importance of student placements as being consistent with the long-term training of staff in the provision of quality education and care for children. Students from QUT and TAFE train at the centre under the supervision of the Director.

However, acceptance of placement of students must be determined upon consideration of the children's needs at the time.

Work Experience and Other Students

This centre supports the inclusion of work experience school students in the educational program. This can be implemented on a limited basis upon request from the school liaison officer and in consultation with the Director. All students are required to hold a current Blue Card.

Volunteers

This centre accepts placement of volunteers but only after approval by the Committee. Volunteers work under the guidance of the Director and must hold a current Blue Card.

7. MANAGEMENT OF THE CENTRE

A Committee of parents, elected by parents at the Annual General Meeting, holds office for the ensuing year and is responsible for the management of the Montessori Children's House. The Committee meets at least ten times during the term of office. All parents are welcome to attend these meetings and/or nominate matters of agenda. It assists the committee in the running of the centre if parents have input in the meetings. Parents are encouraged to nominate others or be nominated themselves for election to the Committee. Parent participation is essential.

8. THE OPERATION OF THE CENTRE

The Montessori Children's House is a single unit Kindergarten and Pre-Prep facility. There are two multi-age groups (3 – 4½ years). There are 22 children in each group. Children attend 5 days per fortnight.

Group A Group B

Kindergarten & Pre Prep Monday, Tuesday & Alternating Wednesdays

Thursday, Friday & Alternating Wednesdays

The centre offers five days per fortnight to children 3½ to 4½ years, as a first priority. If there are any spaces left, then these will be offered to children 3 to 3½ on the Waiting List.

Waiting List Policy

A detailed copy of the Enrolments and Waiting List Policy can be found on the MCH website. In summary, and subject to funding obligations,

(i) Children already enrolled in the centre have first priority of placement for the following year, then

(ii) Siblings of children who have attended MCH in previous years are then offered places, then

(iii) Preference will then be given to children who have attended the Infants’ House for a period of twelve months or more, then

(iv) Remaining positions are offered to children strictly in order of the Waiting List.

Anti-Discrimination Policy or Inclusion Policy

When children enter an Early Childhood setting, they bring with them a rich variety of cultural and social backgrounds and experiences.

This centre recognises the individuality of each child and family and observes a policy of acceptance regardless of race, creed, gender, disability, class or culture.

Child Protection and Risk Management Policy

Montessori Children’s House recognises that it has an important role to play in responding to the problem of harm to, and abuse of, children in the community. We have a specific policy that deals with the role of staff and carers with regard to the wellbeing of children in our care. It is a requirement of the Committee that all staff attend Child Protection Information and Risk Management Seminars and adhere to a code of practice in order to maintain high standards and acceptable behaviour within the service.

Telephone

The centre's telephone number is (07) 3371 7090.

It is preferred that parents telephone before or after the session unless in the case of an emergency.

Daily Programme

8.30 - 11.00 Greeting and sharing of news as a group. Indoor ProgrammeMorning Tea

11.00 - 11.30 Group Time Special Programmes/Music/Transition

11.30 – 12.30 Outdoor Programme

12.30 – 1.00 Group Time Language Experiences

1.00 - 1.30 Lunch

1.30 – 2.00 Rest / Relaxation/Reflection

2.00 – 2.30 Group TimePreparation to go home

These times are flexible.

If parents have any questions regarding the following, please contact the Director.

9. PARENT INVOLVEMENT

Attendance Register in Foyer

A parent/guardian or responsible adult signs the register when the child arrives and when the child leaves. Messages for the parents are left near the child’s name.

Daily Programme Details

These are placed near the attendance register.

Notice Boards in Foyer

Day to day matters, the agenda and précis of minutes of monthly Committee meetings and community news are displayed. Urgent notices are placed above the attendance register.

Parents' Mail Pockets in Foyer

Each family has a pocket in which notices from the centre are placed.

Hot Sheets

These news sheets are prepared after each Committee Meeting and consist of a report from the Director and a précis of issues discussed and decisions made at the meeting.

MCH Directory

At the beginning of the year, parents are invited to add their email address to a Social Email List. Parents are able to arrange play dates etc using this list.

Parent Involvement

This centre recognises the important role played by parents in the education of their children and values and expects parent participation and involvement on a variety of levels:

a) Sharing of their culture, their skills and their interests in the educational program;

b) Attending parent meetings and social functions;

c) Becoming involved at committee management level;

d) Taking responsibility for any of the following:

shopping for the centre covering of library books maintaining the Parents’ Lending Library. equipment maintenance - e.g. replacing a hook, fixing a wooden toy garden maintenance.

Children enjoy their parents being involved. On seeing their parents involved in the kindergarten community, children can see, experience and enjoy the working of a community and the importance of supporting one.

There is washing at the end of each week - tea towels, painting aprons, etc. A parent and child are rostered each week to do this washing and ironing. In order to share parent participation, parents on the committee are not asked to take home washing. On bringing the clean laundry to the centre the child and a staff member pack it away.

Parents' Responsibilities

read all the information relating to the centre in order to be familiar with policy information;

comply with relevant health and hygiene policies of the centre which are based on Queensland Department of Health requirements;

read notice boards and collect mail from the parents' mail pockets daily and participate in the centre's activities;

return forms for excursions etc. by required date; notify the Director regarding changes in information recorded about a child; ensure all fees are paid up for their child/children.

Arrival and Departure

It is required that children be brought to the centre and be collected by their parent/s or a responsible adult of at least eighteen.On arrival, the parent and child go to the locker area. The child puts away his/her belongings starting with the child’s towel on a hook in the bathroom. The child and parent need to wash their hands as per regulation. Paper towels are available for parents. The rest of the items are packed away. Sun screen is applied.Then the child and parent go to the foyer to sign the children’s attendance register and to read the parent notices. At 8.30am, the curtain covering the front entrance is drawn and the Director greets the child and parent. The child says goodbye to his/her parent and joins the group time. If the parent and the child arrive late and the Director is not in the foyer, the parent needs to take the child to her or another staff member in the main room. A staff member will supervise the child to unpack belongings. This is important for supervision reasons. In addition, greetings and apologies for lateness are manners encouraged at MCH.

The Director must be informed if an adult other than the custodial parent will be collecting the child. A signature and time of departure is required on the attendance book as the child and parent leave the centre, at the end of session.

Children and parents, need to use the hand sanitizer provided at reception or go to the bathroom to wash hands on departure from the Centre.

Parents' co-operation is sought in keeping to the session times. Parents may start arriving after 2.15. Children need to be collected by 2.30. Children become anxious when parents are late to collect them. Staff require time to prepare and tidy up at either side of programme times.

Please supervise siblings at all times while at the centre. Activities and equipment need to be left in place. The kindergarten children proudly maintain their environment and keep everything in place. This needs to be respected.

Parents Duty of Care before 8.30am and after 2.30pm

Parents are responsible for their children’s safety and behaviour in all areas of the building and garden before and after session times. If necessary, parents need to remind their children of the guidelines for behaviour at the Centre:

1. We walk inside and on concrete areas2. Equipment needs to be left packed away3. We need to be aware of our noise level, especially when there are other people

close by having a conversation.4. Children need to be accompanied by an adult if they wish to go to the Secret

Garden.

Please supervise your children at these times to ensure their safety.

Parking

Please refer to Parking in Enrolment Pack.

Communication Parents/Director

Parents are encouraged to speak with the Director about their child's progress, or any concerns they may have. This open communication facilitates positive home/kindergarten relationships based on trust and positive co-operation.

Where a longer time is needed, it is important to make an appointment to speak with the Director outside of session times, rather than to take her attention away from the children. This also gives the Director the opportunity to refer to developmental records and observations in discussing any concerns.

Parents are invited to have a parent-director discussion during Semester 2. A schedule of appointments is put on the Notice Board for parents to nominate a suitable time.

Grievance Procedure

Where a parent has any concern relating to the educational program, the parent needs to make direct contact with the Director.

Where a parent has any query relating to the payment of fees or any matter relating to committee management or administration, the parent makes contact with the appropriate committee member. A Committee Directory will be on display in the foyer at the commencement of the calendar year with email and telephone contacts of Committee Members.

If the committee cannot resolve the matter then a Lady Gowrie Early Childhood Education and Care Co-Ordinator may be asked to assist.

The address of Lady Gowrie is: 228 St Paul’s Terrace, Fortitude Valley, Qld 4006

Ph 3252 2667 Email: [email protected]

The co-ordinator acts as an authorized personnel from the Office for Early Childhood Education and Care and conducts the licensing process as per the Child Care Regulations in affiliated community kindergartens. The nearest regional office contact details are:

Early Childhood Officer, Nundah Regional Office, Office for Early Childhood Education and Care, PO Box 3376, Stafford DC 4053. Ph: 3634 0532.

10. DAY TO DAY PRACTICALITIES

Naming your Child’s Belongings

All belongings and clothing brought to and worn at the Children’s House need to be clearly labelled with your child’s name, in particular, hand towels, bed linen, food containers and cups. Please use lower case letters except for first letters of names in preparation for your child’s school readiness.

Clothing

It is recommended that children wear shorts under skirts for modesty within the group situation. Clothing needs to be appropriate for a range of activities from painting to playing in the sand pit. Clothing needs to be loose fitting for comfort and for the child to be able to manage independently and sunsmart with sleeves. A child’s back and shoulders need to be covered so please avoid blouses or tops and dresses with straps. It is good if there is a pocket for a tissue or a handkerchief.Appropriate clothing is play clothes - jeans, shorts, jogging outfits and play dresses. If dresses, shorts and long pants are too long, they encumber climbing etc.There are MCH cotton tea shirts for sale. There are details included in the Enrolment Pack and at reception.

Change of Clothes

A full change of clothes is to be brought each day in a cloth/ plastic bag (Zip Lock is recommended) in the child’s kindergarten bag. During session wet clothes are put in a plastic bag on which the child’s name is written and stored in a white bucket. At the end of the day the bucket is placed near the table at reception. A note is written beside the child’s name on the sign-in-sheet indicating wet clothes need to be collected.

Hats

This centre requires children and adults to wear shady hats whilst outdoors. Hats need to be well fitting, 7.5cm broad rimmed or Legionnaire-style. Caps do not provide adequate shading. A uniform hat may be purchased from the centre, on your child’s first day. Children are required to wear a hat to and from the centre.

Sunscreen

Parents apply sunscreen, to the child's skin, before the start of the programme, and indicate this on the sign-in sheet at reception. As the Outdoor Time is 11.30-12.30 the sunscreen applied needs to offer 4 hours protection.

Parents are asked to supply their child’s sunscreen in tube/ roll-on form. Please label and leave in the respective group container for sunscreen which is kept on top of the children’s lockers.

mailto:[email protected]

Sunglasses

Sunglasses are optional to be worn during outdoor play.

Shoes

This centre recognises the benefits of barefooted play for children's safety, growth, and the development of sensory awareness. Bare feet can grip climbing equipment and promote more effective balance and control. Nerve endings of the feet can experience a variety of textures. Shoes can be a hazard in outdoor play areas. As an additional benefit, noise levels are reduced indoors when shoes are removed. On arrival, children remove their shoes.

Children may leave their shoes on during very cold days or may like to bring slippers in a cloth bag to wear inside. The children put on their shoes before going home.

Children are encouraged to remove and place shoes themselves. It is an independence skill to be fostered. Shoes and socks need to be loose enough to facilitate this.

Lockers

Each child is allocated a locker where his/her name is displayed. The lockers are for the child's bag, work to take home, etc. Each child is to clear his/her locker at the end of session.

Hand Towel

Each child has a named towel hook in the bathroom. Each child needs a washer sized hand towel with a small loop sewn in the middle of the towel. This is to prevent towels coming into contact or dragging on the floor. At the end of the week, each child takes his/her hand towel home for washing.

Rest Time

Under regulations set down for the operation of community kindergartens, rest time is a requirement in full-day programs. It is a time when children stay on their mattresses for a period of relaxation and reflection - restful music is played and stories are told. Some children fall asleep. For rest time your child needs to bring:

a sheet 70cm by 150cm with elastic attached tautly across each of the corners a slightly larger sheet (no elastic) as a cover a small blanket in winter a sheets bag

It is important to use these measurements so that your child can easily fit the sheet to the mattress. Please make sheets from fabric in restful colours and designs and place all linen in a drawstring bag. Please Label.

Sheets may be purchased. Details are available in the enrolment pack.

Children take their sheets home for washing each week.

What to Bring

Morning Tea and Lunch Arrangements

Part of learning to care for one's body is to develop nutritious eating habits. Please provide your child with nutritious food such as sandwiches, sushi, pasta, rice, salad, fresh fruit, dairy products, etc. Items such as cakes, biscuits, muesli bars, sweets, etc. are not appropriate. (We do have cakes etc. for special occasions such as birthday celebrations.) If sweet biscuits/cakes are brought in, the children are told to take it home for Afternoon Tea.

It is recommended that yogurt be from the family yogurt tub in a reusable container and slices of cheese be from the family block.

Fresh fruit is recommended in preference to tined/containers or other forms of pre package fruit.

The children have their Morning Tea from 10 am, when they choose to do so, at the morning tea table.

As lunch is 1pm your child made need yogurt/cheese and crackers/a sandwich to supplement the fruit.

Children are encouraged to drink water throughout the day. Chilled water from the fridge is offered during summer. There is no need to send any drinks with your child. Each child brings a cup from home at the beginning of the year which stays at the centre to use for water. After having a drink, the child washes his/her own cup.

Morning Tea and lunch provide children with more opportunities to become independent. You can be part of this process by providing a lunch box, which your child can manipulate with ease. As space in the fridge is limited, please provide your child with an appropriate sized lunchbox. A good example is the Decor tellfresh quarter’s food storage system (900ml), which is available from Coles stores & is on display at the Children’s House or Nude Food Movers Rubbish Free Lunchbox. Please note lunchboxes need to be removed from chill bags before being place in the refrigerator. Please include any utensils that may

At the beginning of the year - a small china mug (7-8cm diameter )

At the beginning of the week - hand towel, sheets in a sheet bag

Each day - *uniform hat (purchased from the centre) or other Legionnaire-style or broad brimmed hat*spare set of clothes in a Zip Lock bag*morning tea and lunch The kindergarten bag/backpack needs to be an appropriate large size for all the items and easy for the child to use. A pocket on the outside in the front helps to store creative work to be taken home. Please avoid commercial motifs on the bag eg spiderman etc

be necessary, e.g. a regular size spoon if yoghurt is included. Please minimize packaging. Avoid cling wrap.

On arrival at the Children’s House, children take their morning tea to the shelf and place their name beside it; the children then place their lunch box in the fridge.

11. HEALTH

The Montessori Children's House supports community health and strongly encourages the Immunisation of children as set out in the Queensland Government Health Department guidelines.

At the enrolment interview parents are required to provide original Birth Certificates and vaccination documentation.

MCH complies with all legal requirements for the protection of the health and safety of children.

A written record is maintained of each child’s immunisation, emergency contacts, allergies and special needs. Doctor’s name, phone number and address are included in Enrolment Forms.

Parents and staff are to ensure that children are appropriately dressed for current weather conditions. Parents are asked to provide appropriate clothes to cater for variable weather conditions.

Notification of Sickness at MCH

Children are not permitted to attend MCH with a fever (above 38c), any infectious symptoms eg a snotty nose or productive cough or an infectious disease. This guideline protects other children.

Parents must keep children at home for at least 24 hours after fever, vomiting, diarrhoea, conjunctivitis and must comply with government regulations.

If a child is going to be absent, a parent needs to inform the Director before session of the details. A child needs to stay at home until he/she is well. An unwell child is not able to fully participate in the programme. Infections spread easily in this age group.

In the event of a child becoming ill or being injured at the centre, a parent will be notified. The child may need to be collected as soon as possible.

In the event of a parent or emergency contact not being available, the Director will take whatever steps are considered necessary to ensure the child's well being. (Therefore, it is imperative that the parent ensures that the current phone numbers are with the Director at all times.)

If a child is diagnosed with an Infectious Disease they will be isolated immediately to protect other children as directed by the Queensland Government Health Department. Similar exclusions apply to staff members. There is an Infectious Disease Chart at the foyer for reference.

It is essential that parents have good, reliable alternative arrangements for their children should they become sick.

If a child develops a temperature at MCH staff will take appropriate steps to cool the child.

An "incident" register is kept at the centre to comply with the Workplace Health and Safety Regulations.

In the event of a child needing medication during session, please inform the Director.

Medication will only be administered if:(1) It is prescribed by a doctor, in its original container with the original pharmacist’s

dispensing label with details of: Child’s name Name of medication Dosage Frequency How it is to be administered Date of dispensing Expiry date(2) Parents have completed and signed the Medication Book.

A child-resistant cupboard or container in the refrigerator is used for the storage of medication.

Allergies and intolerances

It is the responsibility of the parents to notify MCH of any known allergies and food intolerances experienced by their children. If your child has a known allergy or food intolerance, please ask for a copy of the Allergy Management Policy.

Asthma Management

Staff are trained in First Aid and Asthma Management. Parents of children who are known to suffer from Asthma are required to provide an Asthma Action Plan and to read the MCH Asthma Management Policy.

Hygiene Practices

MCH encourages and maintains a clean and hygienic environment at all times. Hygiene Policies have been developed in accordance with the Education and Care Services National Law Act 2010 and the Education and Care Services National Regulations 20011.

Washing of Hands

Children are required to wash hands:

After using the toilet Before touching food On arrival and departure from the centre

Parents and children wash their hands OR use the hand sanitizer provided at reception on arrival and departure from the Centre.

Staff are meticulous in washing hands in the above and in the following:

Administering First Aid to children Assisting children in the toilet Assisting children with food Any other appropriate time On arrival and departure from the Centre

12. SAFETY EMERGENCY AND EVACUATION PROCEDURES

The safety of all children in care, parents, staff/care providers and all other employees and visitors to the Centre is given the highest priority.

We are committed to maintaining the highest level of response to emergency and evacuation situations including in the event of a fire to ensure the safety of children and staff.

The centre conducts an Emergency Evacuation Drill each month. The drill procedure and evacuation plan is displayed in both the rooms. Please familiarise yourself with this procedure.

13. COMPLIANCE LOG BOOK

In accordance with the Education and Care Services National Law Act 2010 and the Education and Care Services National Regulations 2011 this service has a compliance log book that logs any compliance notices received from the Office for Early Childhood

Education and Care; the department responsible for licensing and monitoring the compliance of early childhood services in Queensland. As the parents/guardians you have the right to access this log book. This Log Book is in the foyer.

14. TERM DATES 2015 AND PUPIL FREE DAYS

TERM 1 Tuesday 27th January – Thursdy 2nd April – 10 WeeksTERM 2 Monday 20th April – Friday 26th June – 10 WeeksTERM 3 Monday 13th July – Friday 18th September – 10 WeeksTERM 4 Tuesday 6th October – Friday 11th December – 10 Weeks

When holidays are taken during the school term, the child's place in the group will be retained. The Director must be informed of the period of absence and fees must be prepaid. The centre follows the school term system with four terms each approximately 10 weeks in length.

A calendar will be provided to families setting out the attendance days for Group A and Group B children throughout the year.

15. ASPECTS OF THE PROGRAMME

The children are encouraged to bring a flower/flowers from home. The children arrange these and put them on the tables. The children become familiar with the names and fragrances of the flowers. The children also use these flowers and ones from the garden to press for collage. (These learning experiences help foster aesthetic appreciation.)

The flowers in our gardens are for the children, the parents and the staff to enjoy. We pick flowers only during session and we need to ask a teacher. Then the flowers are arranged and placed on a table etc for all to enjoy.

The bringing of toys from home is discouraged. They may become broken or lost. The bringing of interesting items from the garden and souvenirs is encouraged.

Families are encouraged to send postcards when they go on holiday and these postcards are displayed.

The Courier Mail is delivered daily to the Centre. Appropriate articles and photographs are used in the programme. We keep worthy articles in a folder under where the newspaper is displayed.

Celebrations

The children celebrate Festival Days of various countries. This is an opportunity for families to share their culture with the kindergarten community. Culture plays a significant role in the program at the Children's House. Children's knowledge and pride in their own cultural identity is fostered. Also fostered are the children's curiosity, enjoyment, and empathetic awareness of cultural differences and similarities. Children are helped to work through any inappropriate responses triggered by cultural differences.

Birthdays and Celebrations

Birthdays are special for each person at MCH. Parents are invited to celebrate their child’s Birthday at 11 am, when the children transition from indoor time to out into the garden. Parents are asked to bring in one clear photograph of their child at each age.

The photos are placed on a Time Line as the parent describes briefly aspects of the child’s life. The family brings some celebration food. Decorated patty cakes are practical.

The date of the Birthday celebrations need to be planned ahead with the Director.

Parents are invited to spend time with their child at the Centre on their child’s Birthday.

Family Breakfast and Afternoon Tea

Families are warmly invited to attend the Sunday Morning Welcome Breakfast in the park arranged in first term. There is usually a Family Afternoon Tea in third term. These are opportunities for children and parents to meet with each other, from both groups.

Annual Open Day

An Annual Open Day is arranged during the year. Families past, present and future and members of the public are invited to attend.

Gifts and Donations

Gifts and donations to the Centre are always most appreciated, e.g. a book, a puzzle, a vase, a painting/print. It is a way for on-going students to remember past students. Each item gives many moments of pleasure.

The Centre has a treasured collection of fine art items that have been donated, or purchased over the years. These items are from many countries including Australia, Ireland, Japan, Switzerland, Africa, New Guinea, Indonesia and others. The curriculum that has been developed at the centre has incorporated an exciting cultural aspect in which the pieces are used, providing the children with a wealth of cultural experiences and appreciation of beauty and craftsmanship.

MCH can become the family's recycling depot for the following:

• used greeting cards and used wrapping paper• good quality magazines with clear pictures

• clear plastic take-away food containers• architects paper• computer paper

• milk and juice bottle tops• pieces of material, lace, ribbon, felt, etc.

• wool• cotton reels, corks

• firm cardboard boxes• cardboard cylinders (excluding toilet rolls)

Supplies of the above constantly need to be replenished.

Excursions

The children will be taken on excursions throughout the year after first term, when they are settling into the environment. Parents are invited to share these experiences with

their child and are needed to help with supervision, a ratio of one adult to two children is necessary. Children must wear sandals, joggers or shoes with laces (not thongs, waterproof boots or shoes with slippery soles) and hats if necessary. Transport is by chartered air-conditioned bus fitted with seatbelts, and the Committee partly subsidises the expense.

Parents before departure must sign permission slips for each excursion. The Excursion Form is a requirement.

16. FOLLOWING THROUGH WITH MONTESSORI IN THE HOME

Maria Montessori saw that parents and teachers have different roles. While teachers may provide more formal learning situations, parents have an opportunity to create a stimulating home environment for their child. This is achieved through the presence of carefully selected toys, books, photographs, paintings, music, interesting friends and discussions, and the thoughtful celebration of family and cultural traditions.

It is important to look for the signs given by the child as to his or her interests. A child likes and needs to help, to participate and contribute to family life. We cannot expect a child to do something if he has not been shown the steps first. Parents need to allow the time to teach the skill (e.g., dressing, cutting fruit/vegetables, sweeping, dusting, etc.) When showing the child how to carry out a task, make your demonstration as simple as possible, with few verbal instructions. Child-sized real tools make his/her work easier to accomplish.

Careful preparation of the home environment to cater for the needs of both adults and children is important. This may include organised and accessible space for the child’s clothing and possessions, children’s work areas and some child-sized furniture.

ALLOW CHILDREN TO DO WHAT THEY ARE CAPABLE OF DOING FOR THEMSELVES, WITHIN REASON.

Finally and most importantly, children need the opportunity to play for play’s sake. Play is a child’s natural way of dealing with stress. Childhood is a stage of life, not just an anteroom to it. It is an important period to which all children are entitled.

17. PARENT LENDING LIBRARY

The books listed below, and many more pertaining to Montessori education, parenting, various aspects of child development, and educational topics, are available for borrowing from the Parents’ Library, located in the foyer of the Children’s House and in the Infants’ House. Parents are encouraged to read as much as possible to extend their understanding of the Montessori approach. Knowledge thus gained can be applied to personal and family life, and can assist in parenting.

New books are carefully chosen for the library each year, making it a valuable resource for all. Any suggestions for new titles are always considered. Any donations are welcomed.

18. SUGGESTED READING LIST

The following books explain the "Montessori Method". Please try to read a few in order to have a better understanding of Maria Montessori and her ideas and philosophies, in both education and life generally.

Books by Maria MontessoriThe Absorbent Mind

The Discovery of the ChildEducation for a New WorldThe Essential Montessori

Books by other authors

How to raise an Amazing Child Tim Seldin

Montessori: A modern approach Paula Polk Lillard

Understanding the Human Being: The Importance of the First Three Years of Life

Silvana Quattrocchi Montanaro

Education for Human Development: Understanding Montessori

Mario M. Montessori Jnr,

Editor: Paula Polk Lillard

Montessori and your child - A primer for Parents T. Malley

Teaching Montessori in the Home - The preschool years Elizabeth Hainstock

Teaching Montessori in the Home - The school years

Montessori Play and Learn L. Britton

Montessori in the Home Patricia Oriti

Essential Montessori: An introduction to Montessori Philosophy and Education (Catalogue of appropriate equipment)

The Michael Olaf Co.

MONTESSORI LITERATURE can be ordered from reputable booksellers such as - American Bookstore/The Book Garden –and montessoribooks.com.au

19. FEES AND LEVIES

Fee $925 per term per child

Confirmation Bond $500 (refundable against the final terms fees)

Administration Fee $25

Enrolment Fee $100 (non-refundable)

Waiting List Fee $30 (non-refundable)

Montessori Children’s House Company Membership Fee $50 ($25.00 per semester)

Montessori Australia Foundation School Membership Fee

$26.00 (payable per family in Term 1)

Building Fund Donation $100 (paid as $25 per term, per family)

LEVY - Please note that the levy is only applicable if a roster etc is not carried out and will be deducted from the $500 bond.

General Roster $100.00 ( per year)

Fees are invoiced at the beginning of each term and payment is required within 14 days. Arrangements may be made with the Treasurer to pay in instalments or by direct debit.

http://www.montessoribooks.com.au/

We also accept cash, cheque and credit card payments. Please understand late payments of fees are an additional cost to the Centre.

MCH is a Registered Care (not Approved Care) centre for the purpose of the Australian Government Family Assistance Office and we issue a receipt each term which people can use to claim their rebate, subject to individual eligibility. Claims can only be made by completing and lodging the relevant form (which can be found at this link) http://www.humanservices.gov.au/spw/customer/forms/resources/fa018-1205en.pdf within 12 months from the date care was provided. Parents need to be working, looking for work, training or studying to get registered care (with some exemptions). Please contact the Family Assistance Office for more information.

Parents who hold a valid Health Care Card and provide details to MCH receive a Health Care Card fee reduction subsidy. This is paid directly to MCH to reduce parents’ out of pocket expenses. The subsidy in 2011 was approximately $1135.75. Please advise us upon enrolment if you hold a Health Care Card and provide us with a copy so that we can pass this subsidy on to eligible parents.

Company Membership

Montessori Children's House Limited is a parent run incorporated company and one member of each family is required to be a member of the company. More detailed information on the organisation is available on request. A form is given out in the Enrolment Pack.

Fundraising

Government Funds and term fees in all community kindergartens have always had to be supplemented by a certain amount of fundraising. Proceeds from fundraising are essential to meet operational and maintenance costs.

Building Fund

The Building Fund is registered with the Taxation Department and all donations are tax deductible. Any operating surpluses are transferred annually to the Building Fund. These monies are used for the maintaining and improvement of our facilities.

General Roster/Levy

Each family is expected to contribute a few hours to a General Roster. Some General Roster items include: - Attendance at working bees.- Additional internal and external maintenance work e.g. gardening, cleaning of cupboards.- Adopting a garden- Assisting Fund Raising activities e.g. Sausage Sizzles, Mango Drive, Parent Night Out- Contribution to children’s programme e.g. cultural lunches, covering books, making play dough for the year. Your contributions will be noted throughout the year. A General Roster Levy of $100.00 is payable by any family who has not undertaken their General Roster obligation throughout the year and is reflected in the Term 4 invoice.

Montessori Australia Foundation School Membership

The Children’s House subscribes to the Montessori Australia Foundation (MAF) on behalf of the organisation, staff and families. MAF offers an extensive range of services to support Montessori in Australia, including services for Montessori schools, professionals and parents. Our subscription enables all MCH families to access a wide range of quality Montessori materials and information.

The cost of membership is calculated on the number of member families of MCH and, as such, fee invoices for Term 1 will include an additional $26.00 fee to cover the family membership cost of membership for the year.

Some of the membership benefits for families include:

Full colour 'Montessori Insights' magazine for each family (published in Term 4) Access to ‘Individual Subscriber’ section of the website that features hundreds of

articles and professional resources Quarterly eBulletins featuring Montessori news Quarterly eArticles Parent Education Resources

For access to online materials, families can go to www.montessori.org.au and use the following login:

Username: parent Password: montessori1

We trust that MCH families will enjoy the benefits of having access to these quality resources and encourage you to explore the information available.

http://www.montessori.org.au/

MONTESSORI CHILDREN’S HOUSESTRATEGIC PLAN 2012-2016

Our VisionTo provide a kindergarten program that nurtures respect, curiosity and imagination; inspires a passion for excellence; and awakens the human spirit.Our MethodWe deliver a program and learning environment based on current best practice in early childhood education:

Underpinned by both the Montessori Method and the Early Years Learning Framework.

Child-centred, not teacher-centred

Responsive to and prepared for the needs and interests of the child, his/her social, emotional, physical, intellectual and spiritual development.

Focused on respect for individual progress and development.

Freedom, within limits of appropriate behaviour discussed and guidelines determined by staff members and the children.

Stress free where children learn to work in harmony with others.

Composed of a mixed-age group, where older children support the younger children.

Staffed by responsive, conscientious, dedicated and well trained adults.

Welcoming the participation of parents and other members of the community.

We recognise that children possess an intrinsic motivation to learn and to become independent and competent beings. This motivation is enhanced by these modes of learning:

o Learning through the use of materials

o Spontaneous learning

o Active discovery learning

o Intentional learning

Our ValuesExcellence – We have a commitment to high standards and strive to continuously improve our practice in adherence to our Montessori pedagogy and mission to nurture respect, curiosity and imagination and thus awaken the human spirit.Inclusion – we aim to provide accessible kindergarten programs that support high standards for all children.Diversity – we appreciate the diversity of our community and social and cultural acceptance and competence.Collaboration – We build positive enduring relationships with children and families, our community and with one another based on honesty, trust and respect. Integrity – We act with utmost integrity at all times, are accountable for our actions and ensure effective and efficient use of resources.

Our Goals1 2 3 4 5

Deliver a high quality Montessori based kindergarten program.

Promote excellence and innovation in early childhood education.

Strengthen existing and facilitate new community partnerships.

Create a positive and rewarding workplace for staff.

Build a viable and sustainable kindergarten service.

Our Key StrategiesImplement the National Quality Framework and work towards achieving a rating of ‘exceeding the national quality standard’.

Embed the Early Years Learning Framework, Queensland Kindergarten Guidelines and Montessori philosophy into practice.

Ensure the program is child centred, play based, stress free, spontaneous with relevant intentional teaching.

Share our knowledge and expertise with others.

Staff and committee to attend relevant professional development on early childhood innovation.

Ensure access to well maintained, authentic and high quality Montessori learning materials and environments

Conduct regular early childhood and Montessori method professional development and information evenings for staff and parents.

Maintain a well stocked lending library for parents for books on early childhood education and theory.

Connect families with each other and with local support services as needed.

Promote the value and contribution of our kindergarten (and our central governing body, The Gowrie) within our local community.

Support local businesses where possible in the engagement of services for the kindergarten.

Work closely with local schools to smooth the transition and promote continuity of learning.

Foster open and honest communication with the teaching team.

Promote a culture that recognises and rewards excellence.

Support staff learning, training and professional development through subsidies for specialised training workshops.

Ensure a safe and supportive work environment with appropriate and up-to-date facilities and technologies.

Undertake weekly staff meetings for continuous reflection and planning. Conduct annual performance reviews.

Ensure financial viability and sustainability.

Compile and implement annual budget and 3-5 year financial and infrastructure plans.

Ensure effective use and management of resources and facilities.

Take advantage of funding opportunities (eg. Grants).

Ensure accountability through good governance, functional committee operation and committee transitions.

Minimise our environmental footprint.

Our Performance IndicatorsOur service ‘exceeds the national quality standard’.

Positive parents and community feedback.

Number of families accessing our programs and resources on offer (e.g. enrolments and wait list numbers).

Well established community partnerships.

Staff satisfaction and attrition.

Achieve personalised staff training and professional development programs for each staff member.

Achieve financial and infrastructural operating plan projections.

Strengthening of the centre’s financial position.

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