Connected to Country: Intentional Bush Kindy Practice
Program description
This program invites educators to move beyond viewing outdoor learning as an add-on, and instead understand Bush Kindy as an intentional, responsive practice. We will explore how connection to place deepens children’s belonging, inquiry-learning, risky play, and wellbeing. Educators will reflect on their role in fostering respectful relationships with Country and embedding curriculum meaningfully within natural environments. Through practical strategies, reflective dialogue and shared examples, participants will strengthen their confidence to lead Bush Kindy with clarity and purpose. Together, we will consider how place-based pedagogy can transform children’s learning and development, and educators’ professional practice.
How the program is delivered
A term-based program of 4 in person sessions x 2-hours. This allows educators to trial strategies between sessions and bring back documentation, questions and wonderings.
Each session is structured as follows:
- PD Session #1 – Provocation, purpose & theory – offering a short, research-informed input (e.g. ecological literacies, noticing, risk-benefit, inquiry, systems thinking) to support site teams to decide on their shared Bush Kindy intent.
- Mentoring Session #1 – Immersion in place – education leaders spend time identifying potential places (in community) to engage in outdoor learning. Practicalities for planning and implementing a bush kindy program will take into consideration local AEDC data.
- PD Session #2 – Pedagogical application – site teams review the initial planning for bush kindy and begin to translate the intent into intentional teaching. We will think about the language we would use, the questions that might deepen thinking, and where we can make ties to literacy, numeracy and scientific thinking.
- Mentoring Session #2 – Reflective dialogue & planning – education leaders will be supported to consider how their bush kindy plan is being implemented considering connection to current planning cycles, site philosophy and QIP priorities.
The frequency can be adapted to site requirements including weekly, monthly or term.
Between each session, reflective tasks are provided to assist with the application of concepts.
Expected outcomes for this program are:
- Educators will develop the knowledge and confidence to embed ecological literacies within Bush Kindy pedagogy.
- Educators will scaffold children’s observational skills, systems thinking, and environmental vocabulary through meaningful engagement with Country.
- Educators will apply reflective risk-benefit assessment and responsive teaching strategies to support children’s resilience, collaboration and environmental stewardship in outdoor settings.
Cost
The program is delivered to a group of up to 10 for $1,300.00 + Gst.
(Travel costs will be provided for the quote based on service location. Overtime rates may apply for any sessions/facilitator travel after 8pm or on a Saturday)
If the program is delivered in-person, additional travel charges will apply.
Contact us for more information:
08 82345219 (option1)
