2021 Dux Speech

FOUNDATION YEARS MASTERPLAN

From little things… Big things grow

Imagine an environment full of possibilities to experience choice, wonder and delight. When considering a masterplan for the development of Strathcona’s new Foundation Years Learning, it was these three words that delivered every decision to ensure that play and wellbeing is supported for young children.

Play is joyful, socially interactive, meaningful and actively engaging. These emotional, social, and cognitive features of play are why it can powerfully support learning. Play increases children’s motivation. It helps connect children’s knowledge, experiences, and interests. In play, children’s attention is focused. They persist through challenges and engage in deep learning, which supports them in consolidating skills and retaining what they have learned.1

The new centre’s design and intent is all about relationships with each other and the environment. This notion gave life to the ideas of Space, Light and Time. Imagine these gifts given to children and teachers on a daily basis. From the design concept formed around the historical lemon myrtle tree to the dynamic selection of outdoor discovery spaces, there is something that creates a sense of wonder around every corner. Central to the environment leading to discovery is a purpose-built atelier framed in glass reflecting the natural environment. This will be a learning space that promotes knowledge and creativity for young children through art and design. The inquiry-based curriculum will encourage exploration of concepts, weaving in skills and knowledge from many disciplines, including early numeracy and literacy skills, which will be differentiated to meet the needs of each individual child. Harmonious interactions will ebb and flow through a seamless relationship with space and time. Curves and glass gallery spaces spill out into kitchen gardens, nature trails and a piazza which is at the heart of the building.

The belief that children have the ability to express themselves in more than one way, will not be imagined but brought to life by the relationships formed with this new environment. The infinite ways that children can express, explore, and connect their thoughts, feelings and imaginings will breathe life into this exciting new space for our youngest of learners.

LISA MILLER

Head of Junior School “The child has a hundred, always a hundred, ways of listening, of marveling, of loving. A hundred joys for singing and understanding. A hundred worlds to discover. A hundred worlds to invent. A hundred worlds to dream.”

– Loris Malaguzzi, Reggio Emilia