Each St Nick’s centre is rich with natural play elements which draw upon the surrounding environment of the community. These elements are incorporated into St Nick’s play-based learning philosophy in the form of wondrous and challenging outdoor play elements rich in provocation which lead each child into exploration and discovery.
In addition to drawing upon the natural environment, we encourage community engagement and we provide support to the community where we can.
Most recently, St Nick’s at Chisholm has been collecting donations and taking part in the drought relief appeal to help farmers who are doing it tough throughout the Hunter.
In a recent post on Facebook, St Nick’s at Chisholm’s Director, Selena Rosee, wrote: “The children in Payang Payang have been discussing how important our farmers are and how the environment impacts their quality of life. It has been wonderful for the children to see how their contribution is helping others in need”.
“Building a sense of community is an important part of the curriculum here at St Nicholas Early Education,” said St Nicks’ General Operations Manager, Kerri Armstrong.
“It is our goal to provide children with the opportunity to broaden their experiences as they participate in building different relationships as part of their wider community,” Mrs Armstrong said.
“With the drought appeal in particular, it has been wonderful for the children to gain an understanding of the importance of community support and to see the difference their kindness and compassion can make.”
In addition to St Nick’s at Chisholm participating the drought appeal, St Nick’s at Lochinvar is also accepting donations for farmers. The Lochinvar centre recently hosted a “dress up as a farmer day” which raised $385 for the appeal.
St Nick’s at Singleton also gives back to the community by taking part in: PJs for the Asthma Foundation, Red Nose Day and Seniors Week.
St Nick’s at Cardiff also takes part in PJ Day for the Asthma Foundation as well as Jeans for Genes day.
Over at St Nick’s at Newcastle West, the children also take part in Jeans for Genes as well as Beanies for Brain Cancer.
If you would like to support any of the local charities listed above, please contact your local St Nick’s early education centre for more details.
If you’re able to donate to the drought appeal, please drop off your donation at St Nick’s at Chisholm or St Nick’s at Lochinvar.