Wallabies Room
Ages 3 to 4 years
The Wallabies Room offers an authentic preschool program guided by the Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF) and led by a qualified Early Childhood Teacher (ECT). Our intentional, play-based program supports children as they begin their preschool journey, building strong foundations for learning and a smooth transition into the Dugongs (4–5 year) room.
Gurwood Early Learning Centre participates in the NSW Start Strong for Community Preschools program. This funding supports affordable access to quality preschool education for children aged 3 to 5 years and contributes to fee relief for eligible families.
Start Strong Funding and Preschool Hours
Under the Start Strong program, services are supported to offer up to 600 hours of preschool education per year. For many 3-year-old children, attendance may be less than 600 hours, and Start Strong funding is applied on a pro-rata basis. This allows families to access subsidised preschool education even when children attend part-time, supporting flexibility and age-appropriate participation.
Our Preschool Approach
Learning in the Wallabies Room is:
- Play-based and intentional
- Responsive to children’s interests and strengths
- Planned, assessed and guided by our ECT
- Strengthened through partnerships with families
Our ECT works closely with educators to extend children’s language, social development, independence and thinking skills through meaningful learning experiences.
Learning and Development Focus
Social and Emotional Development
Children are supported to build confidence, emotional regulation and positive relationships. They learn to participate in group experiences, share, take turns and develop a sense of belonging.
Language, Literacy and Communication
Children’s language development is supported through rich conversations, storytelling, songs and shared reading. Early literacy experiences include recognising names, exploring letters and sounds and developing a love of books.
Early Numeracy and Cognitive Development
Children engage in early mathematical thinking through counting, sorting, patterning and problem-solving within play-based experiences.
Fine and Gross Motor Development
Our program supports fine motor skills such as drawing, using tools and hand–eye coordination, alongside gross motor development through active indoor and outdoor play.
Creativity and Expression
Children explore creativity through art, music, movement and imaginative play, supporting self-expression and confidence.
Exploration, Science and Inquiry
Children are encouraged to explore, investigate and ask questions about the world around them through nature play and simple inquiry experiences.
Preparing for the Dugongs Room (4–5 Years)
The Wallabies Room intentionally supports children to develop:
- Confidence with routines and group participation
- Communication and listening skills
- Independence with self-help tasks
- Curiosity, persistence and problem-solving skills
This preparation supports a positive and successful transition into the Dugongs Room and the final year of preschool.
Family Partnerships and Communication
Families can expect regular communication from our Early Childhood Teacher and educators regarding their child’s learning and development. We value strong partnerships with families and encourage open communication, shared goal-setting and collaboration.