Dugongs Room
Ages 4 to 5 years
Our Dugongs Room provides a structured, high-quality preschool program designed to prepare children for a confident transition to formal schooling. The program is led by a qualified Early Childhood Teacher (ECT) and delivered in line with the Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF), ensuring children experience intentional teaching, meaningful play and strong foundations for lifelong learning.
Gurwood Early Learning Centre participates in the NSW Start Strong funding program. This allows eligible families to receive subsidised preschool fees while their child accesses a comprehensive preschool program that delivers at least 600 hours of quality early education each year.
Our Dugongs program includes a strong school readiness focus, lunchbox education to support children in managing school-style lunches, and a range of incursions and excursions that connect children with the local community.
School Readiness and Structured Learning
The Dugongs Room supports children to build confidence and independence as they prepare for school. Children are supported to follow routines, participate in group learning, take responsibility for their belongings and develop positive learning behaviours.
Early Literacy and Language Development
Children develop early literacy skills through pre-reading and pre-writing experiences, letter and sound recognition, vocabulary development, storytelling and shared reading experiences.
Numeracy and Mathematical Thinking
Early numeracy concepts are introduced through counting, number recognition, simple addition and subtraction, patterning and problem-solving activities using hands-on materials.
Social and Emotional Development
Children are supported to develop self-regulation, empathy and respectful relationships. They learn to share, take turns, resolve conflicts and work cooperatively with peers.
Science, Nature and Inquiry
Children engage in inquiry-based learning through hands-on exploration, simple experiments and investigations related to nature, plants, animals, seasons and the world around them.
Creative Arts and Expression
Creativity is encouraged through art, music, movement and imaginative play, allowing children to express ideas, emotions and creativity in a variety of ways.
Physical Development
Gross and fine motor skills are developed through outdoor play, sport days, movement challenges and fine motor activities such as drawing, cutting and manipulating tools.
Cultural Awareness and Social Studies
The program supports children to develop an understanding of community, diversity and culture. Respectful practices and learning about Australia’s First Nations peoples are embedded throughout the curriculum.
Play and Socialisation
Play remains a vital part of the preschool program, supporting imagination, creativity, social competence and collaboration with peers.
Start Strong Funding and Fee Relief
Through the NSW Start Strong for Community Preschools program, funding is provided to support affordable access to quality preschool education for eligible children aged 4–5 years. This funding contributes to reduced preschool fees and supports the delivery of a comprehensive, teacher-led preschool program.
Family Partnerships and Communication
Families can expect regular communication from the Early Childhood Teacher regarding their child’s learning, development and progress. We value strong partnerships with families and encourage open communication, shared goal setting and collaboration.
Celebrating Achievements
Throughout the year, children’s growth and achievements are recognised and celebrated as they develop the skills, confidence and independence needed for a successful transition to school.