Petit Early Learning Journey - Forest Hill

At the heart of our ethos lie six fundamental beliefs guiding our vision and commitment to your child's growth. These principles drive us to place your child at the forefront of everything we do.

Our philosophy encapsulates the essence of our learning framework, ensuring quality outcomes for your child. These principles steer our decisions on curriculum, ongoing learning, and reflective practices across all Petit ELJ centers. They signify our identity and aspirations, fostering a partnership with parents throughout your child's formative years.

Our Six Core Beliefs:

1. Child-Centric Learning: Every child is capable, resourceful, and an architect of their own knowledge. We empower autonomy, respect children's voices, and encourage expression of ideas.
2. Active Learning: Learning is an active process and a cornerstone of our play-based pedagogy. We facilitate intentional teaching experiences, nurturing individual learning journeys through curiosity and reflection.
3. Family Collaboration: Partnering with families cultivates strong relationships. We value their insights, building trust and working together to ensure children's success.
4. Community Engagement: Connecting with the community supports holistic wellbeing. Through events, activities, and support initiatives, we foster meaningful relationships and support those in need.
5. Learning Environment: Our physical spaces are potential hubs for learning. We utilize natural elements and engaging environments to fuel curiosity and creativity.
6. Contemporary Teaching Approaches: Our teams embrace modern teaching methods through reflective practice and collaborative discussions, ensuring relevance and engagement.

Language is crucial in our approach. We advocate for respectful language, acknowledging the complexity of early childhood development and the professionalism of our educators. We refrain from terms like "childcare worker" and "daycare," emphasizing education and care as integral to our mission.

At Petit, we craft a nurturing, respectful environment that values each child's unique journey. Join us in fostering a love for learning and enrolling your child in an enriching early learning journey where development and connection thrive at every step.

The children participate in a range of incursions and excursions throughout the year to support their learning and development. They visit Myuna Farm, the library and local aged care facilities and supermarkets. At Petit Early Learning Journey Forest Hill, the children also have the opportunity to participate in Hey Dee Ho Music, Little Sports Heroes and Fun-Key Yoga. 

The curriculum at Petit Early Learning Journey is based on an individual approach that recognises the unique skills, perspectives, knowledge and expectations of each child. Supported by the Early Years Learning Framework, the curriculum allows for child-focused, play-based learning where the children can explore their natural curiosity and develop their imagination. The educators take a holistic approach to each child to help them develop their cognitive, emotional and social skills. 

The children are cared for in three different rooms:

• Babies (0-2 yrs)
• Toddlers (2-3 yrs)
• Kindergarten (3-5 yrs)

I have always had a passion for working with young children. One of my biggest motivations for working with young children is knowing I can make a positive difference to a child’s life during the early stages.

Getting to know each child and seeing them reach each milestone is the most rewarding aspect.

It’s incredible seeing the children become independent beings forming friendships, learning new skills and experiencing beautiful moments together.

I encourage family participation and welcome engagement and collaboration in the program with our open-door policy. We have experienced many magical moments within our Centre, and I can’t wait to share this journey with you and your family.

Belinda Balaam, Centre Director Petit Early Learning Journey Forest Hill