With the school year just weeks away from starting, C&K Sunset Community Kindergarten introduces their new Early Childhood Educator and dispels some myths.
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Colombian born teacher, Diana Gómez moved to Australia to complete her Master’s degree two years ago and with nearly a decade of experience in early childhood education, she is looking forward to immersing herself into the centre.
“After I completed my Master’s degree in Early Childhood Education, I gained the opportunity to move here and I am loving it,” Ms Gómez said.
“There are a few differences in the kindergarten program here, from what I taught back in Colombia. Here, it is much more focused on providing children with so many tangible skills, how to communicate, share, create and explore- all done by playing in guided learning experiences.
“Back in Colombia, there was more focus on the literacy elements and the methodologies were more academic from the early years of school,” she said.
For the last three months Ms Gomez has involved herself in the community whilst developing relationships with some children and their families at the centre.
“I look forward to the year ahead and meeting more families who come to the kindergarten. Together we will have a great time as we explore and learn through play.”
The 2019 kindergarten year begins on Tuesday January 29.
C&K CEO Jane Bourne said it’s not too late to enrol for 2019, and understands it can be confusing for parents to know when is the right time to send their child.
The myth that Kindergartens have a long waiting list and no vacancies is not always the case.
- C&K CEO Jane Bourne
“For a child to attend kindergarten at the recommended age, in either a standalone kindergarten or in a childcare setting, they need to be turning four before June 30,” Ms Bourne said.
“What we are also hearing from parents, is concern that they have left it too late to enrol, but there is no need to panic. The kindergarten program runs on the same calendar as Queensland schools.
Ms Bourne said the myth that Kindergartens have a long waiting list and no vacancies is not always the case.
“If you have not enrolled your child yet, there are still vacancies at a range of Centres across Queensland with plenty of time to enrol.”
While the kindergarten program is designed for children to attend the year before they start school, there is still the possibility for children who turn four after June 30 to attend.
“Many parents feel their child will benefit for doing two years in a kindergarten program and it is possible for this to happen if a kindergarten has vacancies.
However, it is always best to check with your desired kindergarten if this is their policy,” Ms Bourne said.
