Our Story
The Mudjimba community needed a local Kindy and a committee was formed in 1983 spearheaded by retired teacher Mary Dillon and Sandi Doody.
For many years the community worked tirelessly to raise money and in 1987 work began with the help of community employment scheme to build our centre.
In January 1988 the doors opened and the North Shore Community Kindergarten welcomed the first group of students with Teacher Marijke Courtney (nee Bastin) Retired 2016 and Teacher Aide Lauren White (nee Sparkes).
With a name change in the early 90’s to the Mudjimba Community Kindergarten we have been home to hundreds of lovely children and their families, supported by many dedicated teachers, support aids and wonderful committees who have enriched our community.
Our Mudjimba Community Kindy Family just keeps growing as we move past thirty years of operation!
Our Philosophy
At Mudjimba Community Kindergarten we value building genuine connections and fostering trust with children, families and community. We place emphasis on the emotional and social development of children, ensuring that their well- being and happiness are central to our educational philosophy. We are deeply committed to embedding a play-based program where children’s voices and interests are respected and listened to. We value children's need to play and recognise it as a fundamental aspect of children's development, where they learn about themselves, their environment, and others. Play is seen as meaningful work that helps children make sense of the world around them.
Our role as teachers and educators is to provide support and guidance (scaffolding) to children when needed, ensuring they have the necessary tools and assistance to achieve their learning goals. At the same time, we know when to step back and allow children the space to explore and learn independently, fostering their autonomy and problem-solving skills.
At Mudjimba Kindy we understand differences and value inclusivity. We acknowledge and respect the diversity among children, staff and families, including differences in all abilities, backgrounds, and learning styles. Creating an inclusive environment where every child feels valued, respected, safe and supported in their unique journey of growth and learning. On a daily basis we honour and integrate the cultures, knowledge, and perspectives of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples into our program. This fosters respect, understanding, and appreciation for Australia's First Nations cultures among children and educators alike.
As a community of learners, we value the importance of connecting with nature as a source of learning and inspiration for children. This connection to the land fosters a deeper appreciation and understanding of the natural world. We provide opportunities for children to learn and play in natural outdoor environments, including our Bush Kindy space, promoting physical activity, exploration, and a sense of adventure.
We work together with children to help them gain a greater understanding of their role as caretakers of the earth. This involves experiences such as gardening, recycling, learning about our natural wildlife, and discussing environmental issues. By engaging children in these discussions, they develop a sense of responsibility towards protecting and preserving the environment.
At Mudjimba Kindy we encourage empathy, kindness, and respect in children’s interactions with their peers and adults. This includes teaching self-regulation and conflict resolution skills, promoting inclusivity, and fostering a supportive community where everyone feels valued and cared for.
Mudjimba Kindergarten is a special place where children not only feel valued but are able to experience moments of joy every day.
Our Environment
Our bush surrounds and open spaces are considered a special ‘gift’ to us here at Mudjimba Kindy. We know how important connecting with nature is for our wellbeing and also in gaining understandings around respecting and protecting our natural world, building knowledge about preservation and protection. We strongly believe that interacting with and ‘in’ our bush area is what will develop these genuine, deeper connections and understandings.
We access our back bush area on a regular basis and take the children on excursions to our local beach down the end of our road. How lucky are we to have so much nature on our doorstep!
Each day we are grateful for our beautiful space, surrounded by the bush and so close to the beach. Here are just a few highlights:
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Our large natural environment
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Incredibly maintained
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Quiet cul de sac
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Wildlife visitors
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Comfortable climate controlled environment
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Natural homely feel
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Well resourced.