OUR LEARNING
APPROACH
COVE Curriculum
Framework
-
Curiosity
We nurture children’s natural curiosity by creating rich environments that invite exploration, wonder, and questioning. Children are encouraged to investigate their world and follow their interests.
Learning Focus: Children engage in open-ended play, ask questions, and use their senses to discover new ideas.
Example Outcome: Children show confidence in exploring, experimenting, and problem-solving.
-
Opportunity
We provide diverse opportunities for children to engage with different materials, cultures, and experiences. This supports holistic learning and development across cognitive, social, emotional, and physical domains.
Learning Focus: Children access a variety of learning resources and experiences that broaden their understanding and skills.
Example Outcome: Children demonstrate curiosity, creativity, and adaptability in new situations.
-
Values
We embed respect, kindness, empathy, and community connection in everything we do. Children learn to appreciate diversity, build positive relationships, and contribute meaningfully to their community.
Learning Focus: Children practise social skills, develop empathy, and celebrate cultural identities.
Example Outcome: Children show respect for others, engage cooperatively, and understand fairness.
-
Empowerment
We empower children to take ownership of their learning, make choices, and build resilience. Our educators support each child’s voice and agency to foster confidence and independence.
Learning Focus: Children are encouraged to express ideas, make decisions, and reflect on their learning.
Example Outcome: Children demonstrate confidence, self-regulation, and persistence.
Our Commitment
to Sustainability
At Cove Early Learning, we are deeply committed to caring for Country, protecting our planet, and teaching children to become thoughtful towards their environment.
We believe that when children develop a relationship with nature, they are more likely to respect and care for the world around them. That’s why sustainability is not a separate program, it is part of our everyday learning, culture, and decision-making.
-
Our Green Little Thumbs program is a hands-on, play-based sustainability initiative designed especially for young children. Through this program, children are encouraged to:
Plant, water, and care for fruits, vegetables, and native plants in our centre garden
Learn about composting, worm farming, and reducing food waste
Practice recycling and reusing materials during play and creative arts
Understand the life cycles of plants, insects, and ecosystems
Connect with Country and Aboriginal perspectives on land, seasons, and sustainability
-
Nutritious meals prepared with fresh herbs and seasonal produce from our garden
Compost bins and worm farms in each yard
Recycling systems in every room, with child involvement
Nature walks and conversations about environmental care
Educators modelling sustainable practices in everyday routines
Inclusion of books, music, and stories that reflect care for the Earth and Aboriginal knowledge systems
-
We embed Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander perspectives in our sustainability practices, recognising that First Nations Peoples have cared for this land for thousands of years. We are guided by the concept of "Caring for Country" and actively seek local knowledge to enrich our practice.
Through Green Little Thumbs and our broader approach to sustainability, we empower children to feel a sense of agency, responsibility, and connection to the world around them.
Together, we grow a greener future through one little thumb at a time.