Children's Learning

From Routines to Rituals

We understand the importance of a mindful rhythm to the day and an holistic approach to learning. To transform mundane routines to mindful rituals and so much more. Traditions of sitting around a table at mealtimes, preserve and cherish the art of conversation and togetherness. Our mealtimes bring nourishment of our body and mind. Providing fresh, nutrient meals creates opportunity to ensure we are contributing to our children’s development and autonomy around making healthy decisions in what fuels their bodies. Along with providing nutritious meals, we learn to plant, nurture, grow and harvest our own food, where experiences and memories are created showing children resourcefulness and a sense of accomplishment.

Your Child’s Voice in Learning

We acknowledge and advocate, that children, no matter what age, are respectful contributors of our community. The children are provided with a harmonious learning environment that is “self-initiated,” driven by play, past and present experiences, incorporating home values, where they can simply enjoy, being. Our educators are “co-creators” using the environment as the third teacher to support the balance in providing challenging, worthwhile experiences which promote higher level thinking skills through thoughtful, deliberate and purposeful actions. We believe learning through play is fundamental in child development and our wellbeing program guides and supports the joy of doing, investigating and discovery.

Celebrating Diversity and Belonging

Inclusivity is at the forefront of our practices. We believe a positive sense of identity and belonging is imperative to supporting a child’s growth. Intervention programs are designed and embedded at 3 Bears Cottage that highlight the benefits of experiencing and celebrating living and learning from others and our communities. Our intercultural understanding and community harmony allows us to engage in and meet the needs and backgrounds of our children, families and educators. Participation, links and partnerships with the community is a fundamental belief of this service and are highlights that develop a sense of belonging in our children to other groups and communities.

Curiosity and Resilience in Action

Our school readiness program highlights the importance of children being capable, active and equal participants in learning and extending their curiosity for self-discovery through nature and the environment. Our curriculum allows our educators to tune into the present moment where children can take calculated risks, grow their emotional development and resilience all while becoming strong and independent learners throughout everyday skills and exploration.

Nurturing Our Educators

Implementing well thought out programs and spaces for our children and families, means we must provide the same for our educators. Having passion and a love for what we do is an overall productivity booster, but those who are happy at work, are likely to be more motivated in their workplace.  Building positive programs for our children is by having motivated educators who are mindful of their own physiology, passions, energy and make a conscious effort to create calm, peaceful and stress-free environments, allowing children to feel safe and secure.

Our Culture of Reflection and Growth

A successful program without doubt needs meticulous cooperation and collaboration when planning, however, this does not happen by chance. It takes a well-informed team to lead a positive organisational culture and adopt a modern, mindful approach to build a professional learning community. Continuity of care is critical and our wellbeing initiatives for our educators embed professional inquiry through continuous reflective practices. It is our mission to ensure we remain at the forefront of our industry, being innovative, adaptive and always having a passion for learning as learning is lifelong.

The Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF)

At 3 Bears Cottage, our educators use Australia’s National Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF) to guide everything we do with your child. This framework helps us create meaningful experiences that support every child to reach their full potential and build a strong foundation for lifelong learning.

The EYLF focuses on five key learning outcomes that reflect how children grow, learn, and connect with the world around them:

1. 1. Children have a strong sense of identity – feeling safe, secure, and supported to be themselves.
   2. Children are connected with and contribute to their world – learning to build relationships, care for others, and value their community.
   3. Children have a strong sense of wellbeing – developing confidence, resilience, and healthy habits for mind and body.
   4. Children are confident and involved learners – exploring, experimenting, and developing curiosity through play.
   5. Children are effective communicators – expressing themselves through language, art, movement, and creativity.

These outcomes recognise that every child learns in their own unique way and at their own pace. Our role is to nurture each child’s growth, interests, and sense of belonging—helping them become capable, confident learners who love discovering the world around them.

National Quality Standards (NQS)

At 3 Bears Cottage, we are proud to be rated Exceeding National Quality Standard in all seven quality areas — a recognition that reflects our commitment to delivering the highest standard of education and care.

The National Quality Framework (NQF) was introduced by the Australian Government to ensure consistent, high-quality early childhood education and care across the country. It sets a national benchmark that helps families know their children are receiving safe, nurturing, and educationally rich care.

The Framework includes:

• • The National Quality Standard (NQS) – outlining what high-quality education and care looks like.
  • A national rating and assessment process – where services are independently assessed.
  • Regulatory arrangements and support – ensuring services meet legislative and safety standards.
  • ACECQA (Australian Children’s Education and Care Quality Authority) – the national body that oversees quality and continuous improvement.

Services are rated on seven quality areas:

1. 1. Educational Program and Practice
   2. Children’s Health and Safety
   3. Physical Environment
   4. Staffing Arrangements
   5. Relationships with Children
   6. Collaborative Partnerships with Families and Communities
   7. Governance and Leadership

To receive an Exceeding rating in all seven areas means that 3 Bears Cottage goes above and beyond the national standards in every aspect of care — from our programs and environments to our relationships, leadership, and community engagement.

It’s a reflection of our educators’ dedication, our strong values, and the nurturing culture we’ve built together with our families. This recognition confirms what we already know: 3 Bears Cottage is a truly special place for children to learn, grow, and belong.

Child Safe Environment

Statement of Commitment to Child Safety and Wellbeing

Our number one priority is the safety, health and wellbeing of children in our care. We champion and model a child safe culture at all levels in our service. We will not tolerate harm or the risk of harm to children or young people. We will not tolerate bullying or harassment. We act on any concerns about child safety and encourage a culture of reporting harm and risk of harm.

We listen to all children. We uphold their rights and empower them to know and exercise their rights. Children and families are involved in making decisions about matters that concern them. We are committed to equity and the inclusion of all children, regardless of their abilities, sex, gender, or social, economic or cultural background. We have an inclusive and welcoming environment for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children, and respect and value their diverse and unique identities and experiences.

This Statement of Commitment forms part of our statement of philosophy and we publicly display it.