Bush Preschool Program
Our Inspiring Learning Environment
We offer three classrooms designed to meet the developmental needs of different age groups: We use the local Biripi language, Gathang, for our room names.
Our preschool program is a vibrant world where play isn’t just encouraged; it’s the foundation of learning! We believe children are born explorers, bursting with curiosity and a natural drive to understand the world around them. That’s why we’ve crafted a play-based program that ignites imaginations, celebrates discovery, and nurtures a lifelong love of learning.
Carefully Crafted learning Environment
Our learning environment has been carefully planned and landscaped to spark children's imaginations and invite them into spaces that encourage exploration, engagement, and self-directed play.
Outdoor Safe Spaces for learning
Our indoor spaces are open-plan and furnished to feel like home, creating a comfortable and familiar atmosphere for children to thrive. These play spaces empower children to be creative and innovative and continually expand their knowledge and skills.
Crafted Vegetation Outdoor spaces
Stepping outdoors, children are immersed in the wonders of nature. Our outdoor environment has been designed to bring the beauty of the surrounding landscape and vegetation into children's daily play.
The Environment as the Third Educator
Where walls whisper wonder and nature nurtures.
Step inside, and you’ll instantly feel this is more than a classroom; it’s an environment alive with discovery. Guided by the “environment as the third teacher” philosophy, our space inspires and empowers young minds.
Sunlight streams through large windows, while sliding glass doors connect seamlessly to an outdoor classroom where nature leads. Towering trees become forts for adventure, and the mud kitchen turns dirt and water into imaginative creations, fostering collaboration and creativity.
Art areas, vibrant with color, invite exploration with clay, recycled materials, and natural pigments. Children engage with light and shadow, igniting curiosity and the joy of discovery.
Incorporating elements of "Bush Preschool”
Program Philosophy: During Terms 2 and 3, we run a Bush Preschool (Bushy) Program.
Nature as Teacher
Embraces the outdoors as a primary learning environment, fostering a deep connection with nature and promoting holistic child development.
Child-Led Exploration: This approach encourages children to direct their own learning through open-ended play, exploration, and discovery in a natural setting.
Risk-Taking & Resilience: This activity provides opportunities for safe, manageable risk-taking in nature (e.g., climbing trees, navigating uneven terrain), building confidence, resilience, and problem-solving skills.
Environmental Awareness
Cultivates a sense of wonder and respect for the natural world, encouraging environmental stewardship practices from a young age. Child-led exploration of the natural environment. Activities might include:
– Building shelters with sticks and leaves.
– Creating art with natural materials.
– Observing insects and animals.
– Climbing trees (with supervision and appropriate safety measures).
– Engaging in imaginative play inspired by nature.
Safety First: Educators are trained in risk-management and first aid to ensure a safe learning environment. Boundaries and safety guidelines are established for the natural area.
Benefits of a Bush Preschool Program
1: Enhanced Physical Development
Improved balance, coordination, gross and fine motor skills through natural movement and play.
2: Increased Social & Emotional Skills
Greater self-confidence, resilience, creativity, problem-solving, and cooperation through collaborative play in nature.
3: Deeper Connection to Nature
Fostering environmental awareness, respect, and a sense of wonder for the natural world.
Taree and District Preschool
ESTD 1949 / Moved to current location 1986.
Location Address
Biripi Country: 31 Barton Street, Taree, NSW, 2430
Office Hours
Monday - Friday
8:00 am - 4:00 pm