Newcastle Community Preschool City to Sea Philosophy Statement
At Newcastle Community Preschool, we believe that children flourish when deeply connected to place, people, and purpose. Our City to Sea program is a natural extension of this belief; a place-based learning journey where the coastline becomes our learning environment and where nature, culture, and community guide meaningful exploration.
Connection to Country and Culture
We acknowledge the beach and surrounding coastline as Aboriginal land and walk this land with respect, curiosity, and care. Our program is grounded in First Nations perspectives, recognising that the land, sea, and sky are living systems with deep cultural significance.
Children are invited to listen to Country, ask questions, and reflect on their place within it. Cultural learning is not a single moment in time, but an ongoing relationship woven into each City to Sea session through story, observation, conversation, and shared experience.
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Learning Through Nature and Community
The coast is a dynamic learning environment that offers endless opportunities for inquiry, imagination, and discovery. Children explore marine ecosystems, observe natural patterns, and investigate the connections between land, water, animals, and people.
Community partnerships strengthen this learning:
A marine biologist helps deepen children’s understanding of local sea life and ecological systems.
A local surf lifesaver, connected through our educator Deanna, supports children’s learning in beach safety, surf awareness, and confidence in and around the ocean.
Our sponsorship with ICCC provides valuable opportunities for trainers and students studying Early Childhood to learn in partnership with the preschool, enriching the program with shared knowledge, new perspectives, and collaborative practice.
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OUR LATEST ADVENTURES
Children as Capable, Active Participants
In City to Sea, children are seen as researchers, explorers, and stewards of the natural world. They are trusted to take risks, solve problems, make decisions, and contribute to the planning and shaping of their learning experiences.
We foster agency by inviting children to co-design their learning journeys, reflect on their discoveries, and lead inquiry-based investigations sparked by their own wonderings.
Our Commitments
Through City to Sea, we commit to:
Embedding cultural understanding and respect for Country in every aspect of the program
Fostering ecological awareness and environmental responsibility
Strengthening children’s sense of identity, confidence, and belonging in natural spaces
Building authentic partnerships with families, Elders, experts, and the wider community
Promoting safety, wellbeing, and competence in outdoor environments
Engaging in ongoing critical reflection to ensure the program remains ethical, inclusive, and responsive.
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