Our Philosophy

Our Philosophy

At Kinburra Preschool, we understand the immense value of Play as an integral part of each child's learning journey. We provide endless opportunities for the children in our care to explore, experiment and engage with the world around them. We believe in nurturing each child’s wellbeing and enjoyment of learning, through active exploration, child-initiated play experiences, and strong, positive relationships with others.


We aim to foster a sense of Belonging, Being and Becoming within each child. Belonging acknowledges children's interdependence with others and the basis of relationships in defining their Identity. Belonging is central to being and becoming in that it shapes who children are and who they can become. Our Philosophy upholds the Early Years Learning Framework’s Principles and Practices to support children’s learning and sense of well-being.

Child-sized wooden table and chairs with toys and books displayed for early learning. — Kinburra Preschool (Kincumber) in Kincumber, NSW
Two girls play a matching game at a table, with a mirror. — Kinburra Preschool (Kincumber) in Kincumber, NSW

Children are at the center of our Philosophy and everything we do at Kinburra Preschool. We believe that all children are unique individuals and encourage children to develop confident self-identities by recognising and nurturing each child’s strengths, abilities and interests. We encourage children to become successful lifelong learners by placing importance on skills such as confidence, resilience and persistence. All children are given equitable opportunities regardless of their gender, culture and socio-economic background. Children are free to express their voices and are heard at Kinburra Preschool, assisting them to develop the skills to advocate for themselves and a have a deeper sense of agency.

The Relationships we form with children and families have a significant effect on children’s involvement and success in learning. Our Philosophy is based on the Circle of Security Attachment Model to ensure we build secure relationships. Children thrive when families and Educators work together in partnership and we place great importance on the relationships we form with children, families, and the broader community. Kinburra’s philosophy acknowledges positive relationships based on mutual trust, open communication and shared decision making.

Child reading a book about insects, pointing at the page. Green plants and containers are visible nearby. — Kinburra Preschool (Kincumber) in Kincumber, NSW
A Group of Logs Sitting on Top of a Lush Green Lawn — Kinburra Preschool (Kincumber) in Kincumber, NSW

Lastly, our Philosophy views the Environment as the third teacher. We believe in creating a flexible safe environment that is responsive to children’s needs, abilities and interests. We recognise that we are part of the world community as well as our local community and our role is to support children to become responsible, well-informed citizens so they can contribute to a better future. We place importance on acknowledging Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander perspectives. Our Philosophy focuses on spending time outdoors, engaging with nature and learning about sustainable practices. Our carefully planned environments invite open-ended interactions, spontaneity, risk taking, exploration, and discovery.


When children feel safe, secure and supported they grow in confidence to explore and learn.


Two young children playing with toys on a wooden tray, exploring a nature-themed setup — Kinburra Preschool (Kincumber) in Kincumber, NSW
A Woman and Two Boys Are Crossing a Street Holding Hands — Kinburra Preschool (Kincumber) in Kincumber, NSW
Two Children Playing with Clay and Sand — Kinburra Preschool (Kincumber) in Kincumber, NSW

  • What is a community-based preschool and why is it important?

    A Community-based Preschool in NSW is a non-for-profit preschool owned and operated by a community organisation, Kinburra is operated by a parent led committee. These preschools are funded by the NSW Department of Education and at present the Start Strong program provides funding to community preschools to make early childhood education for affordable for families in NSW. Preschool is important for a child’s development as it lays a strong foundation for future success by developing key skills in areas like communication, problem-solving, social interaction, and physical development. In addition, preschool fosters emotional resilience, persistence and independence, preparing children for the transition to more formal schooling. 

  • What age should a child start preschool?

    Community-based preschools provide a planned educational program, typically for children aged 3-5 with a qualified early childhood teacher overseeing the program. Research shows that children benefit from consistent preschool experiences in the years before school. This period allows them to develop key language, social, and emotional skills in a structured but play-based environment. These formative years are vital because they lay the groundwork for lifelong learning, emotional wellbeing, and school success. Quality preschool environments foster creativity, resilience, and confidence—traits that are just as important as academic readiness.

  • How does Kinburra Preschool support school readiness?

    Kinburra Preschool supports school readiness in a holistic way—not just through early literacy and numeracy, but by nurturing essential life skills. Children learn to follow routines, manage emotions, work in groups, negotiate, communicate their needs, and take responsibility for themselves and their belongings. These skills help them feel secure and confident when they start school. The routines and rituals children follow at Kinburra Preschool encourage active participation and an understanding of the rights and responsibilities needed to be informed citizens.