Moriah College ELCs – where Jewish learning begins

“I feel like I’ve dropped my kids off with family members,” says Lisa Kaplan-Winters as four-year old Marlow smiles and waves goodbye at the Moriah College Early Learning Centre (ELC) gate.

“They’re happy, cared-for and really loved, and always come home having had a beautiful day.”

It’s a sentiment shared by families throughout all three Moriah College ELCs, who experience the undeniable sense of belonging and strong connection to community that provides the foundation for an exceptional early learning program.

There is a wealth of research that considers the early years to be the most important in a child’s educational journey, positioning them for future success.

In 2023, Moriah College is 80 years strong, having opened its doors on 14th February 1943 with one preschool class of 25 children. This year, the College is welcoming more than 200 new ELC students.

For eight decades Moriah has nurtured, guided and supported its youngest students with an outstanding early years education program that is still distinguished by the Jewish values that are fundamentally woven through the day-to-day experiences of every child.

Whether it’s enjoying all the festivals throughout the Jewish calendar, singing and dancing at weekly Shabbat celebrations or learning from the specialist Hebrew and Jewish Studies teachers, children at the Moriah ELCs develop a strong Jewish identity and an undeniable connection to Jewish heritage, traditions and Israel.

Another unique aspect of the Moriah ELCs is the dedication and experience of the educators and support staff, who facilitate programs that empower the children to grow into thoughtful, kind, and respectful individuals who foster empathy towards the needs of others and make positive contributions to their community and the world around them.

Applying both explicit teaching and student-led investigations, children are inspired to grow, flourish and become learners at their own pace. They are given the opportunity to be curious, research, question and explore, while learning how to problem-solve, collaborate, take appropriate risks and think critically.

This year, the College welcomes Student Integration Officer Rozanna Hoffman to the ELC team, to help to identify, track and strengthen the needs of children who require extra support.

The ELC is where the journey through Moriah College begins and families experience a seamless progression through to Primary School and then High School graduation, with smooth, successful transitions along the way.

“My son Max can’t wait to join his brother in the Primary School,” says ELC mum Michelle Heffernan. “We’re not from Sydney and the Moriah ELC has given us a real sense of community.

My children feel very much a part of the Moriah Community and it’s been an amazing experience for Max.”

Moriah welcomes children from two to five years of age at its Early Learning Centres and prospective parents can visit the campuses and see what makes the ELCs so special by registering for the Open Day on Sunday, 26th February. ELC educators will be on hand to answer any questions and provide a tour of the classrooms and outdoor areas. Register via www.moriah.nsw.edu.au/events