WINDSOR SCHOOL AGE CARE CENTRE INC.wsacc.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/WSACC-Family... · 2014. 7. 16. · COMMERCIAL-IN-CONFIDENCE Windsor School Age Care Centre Inc. Family

COMMERCIAL-IN-CONFIDENCE

Windsor School Age Care Centre Inc. Family Handbook

Document Author Checked by Approved by

Arran Bollard

Chair Development and Strategy Subcommittee

Kathryn Mahoney

Service Coordinator / Centre Manager

Jenny Wild

President

Revision Publish Date Page

1.0 14 January 2012 Cover Page 1

We reserve all rights in this document and in the information contained therein. Reproduction, use or disclosure to third parties without express authority is strictly forbidden. In printed form this document is UNCONTROLLED unless otherwise stamped.

Family Handbook © WSACC Inc, 2013

COMMERCIAL-IN CONFIDENCE

WINDSOR SCHOOL AGE CARE CENTRE INC.

FAMILY HANDBOOK



Document Author Checked by Approved by

Arran Bollard

Chair Development and Strategy Subcommittee

Kathryn Mahoney

Service Coordinator / Centre Manager

Jenny Wild

President


1.0 14 January 2012 Cover Page 2







1.0 14 January 2012 Configuration Page i




REVISION HISTORY

Revision Prepared by Changes/Comments Date

0.1 Arran Bollard Draft 9 Jan 13



1.0 Jenny Wild Final 12 Jan 13

REVIEW HISTORY

The review history for this release of the document is:

Review Type Reviewer Date

Draft Review Parent Management Committee and Centre Manager

10 Jan 13

Draft Review WSACC Staff 11 Jan 13

Final Review President 12 Jan 13

DISTRIBUTION

This document is to be distributed as shown on the following table. Any subsequent update after the initial issue must be fully distributed.

Role Name Company Copy No.

Master Original WSACC 1

Staff / Centre Copy Bound hard copy WSACC 2

PMC Copy Bound hard copy WSACC 3




1.0 14 January 2012 Contents Page i




TABLE OF CONTENTS

Section 1 General Information About WSACC ..................................................................................................... 1 1 Section 1 ............................................................................................................................................... 1 1.1 WSACC Philosophy .............................................................................................................................. 1 1.2 Values and Beliefs ................................................................................................................................ 1 1.3 WSACC Goals ...................................................................................................................................... 2 1.4 Hours of Operation ............................................................................................................................... 2 1.5 General Program Outline ...................................................................................................................... 3 1.6 Our Licensee ........................................................................................................................................ 4 1.7 Parent/Caregiver Participation and the Management Committee ........................................................ 4 1.8 Policies and Procedures ....................................................................................................................... 4 1.9 Enrolment and Orientation .................................................................................................................... 5 1.9.1 Information Required from Parents / Caregivers .................................................................................. 5 1.9.2 Additional Needs ................................................................................................................................... 6 1.10 Family Communication ......................................................................................................................... 8 1.11 Respect for Children ............................................................................................................................. 8 1.12 Child Protection .................................................................................................................................... 8 1.13 Photos ................................................................................................................................................... 9 1.14 Priority of Access and Non-Discriminatory Access .............................................................................. 9 1.15 Confidentiality ..................................................................................................................................... 10 1.16 Parent Code of Conduct ..................................................................................................................... 10 1.17 Staffing ................................................................................................................................................ 11 1.17.1 Staff Ratios ......................................................................................................................................... 11 1.17.2 Staff Development .............................................................................................................................. 11 1.17.3 Staff Experience ................................................................................................................................. 11 1.17.4 Staff Suitability .................................................................................................................................... 11 1.17.5 Staff Identification ............................................................................................................................... 11 1.18 Suggestions, Complaints and Concerns ............................................................................................ 11 1.18.1 Complaints Handling Philosophy ........................................................................................................ 12 1.18.2 Complaints Handling Procedures ....................................................................................................... 12 Section 2 Caring for Your Child(ren)..................................................................................................................... 1 2 Section 2 ............................................................................................................................................... 1 2.1 Arrivals and Departures ........................................................................................................................ 1 2.1.1 Signing In and Out ................................................................................................................................ 1 2.1.1.1 Before School Care .............................................................................................................................. 1 2.1.1.2 After School Care ................................................................................................................................. 1 2.1.2 Late Collection and Fee Payable .......................................................................................................... 2 2.1.3 Children Leaving without Permission ................................................................................................... 2 2.2 Child Code of Conduct.......................................................................................................................... 2 2.3 Custody ................................................................................................................................................. 2 2.4 Safety .................................................................................................................................................. 3 2.5 Health and Hygiene .......................................................................................................................... 3 2.6 Illness and Injury ............................................................................................................................... 4 2.7 Medication ............................................................................................................................................ 4 2.8 Daily Routines ....................................................................................................................................... 5 2.9 Homework ............................................................................................................................................. 5 2.10 Breakfast, Morning and Afternoon Tea ................................................................................................. 6 2.11 Behaviour Support and Management .................................................................................................. 6




1.0 14 January 2012 Contents Page ii




2.12 Students, Visitors and Volunteers ........................................................................................................ 7 2.13 Excursions ........................................................................................................................................... 7 2.14 Collection and Drop-Off of Children by WSACC .................................................................................. 8 2.14.1 General ................................................................................................................................................. 8 2.14.2 Windsor State School Transport for Collections and Drop off by WSACC .......................................... 8 2.15 Sun Safe Appropriate Clothing ........................................................................................................... 10 2.16 Babysitting .......................................................................................................................................... 10 2.17 Programming ...................................................................................................................................... 10 2.18 Personal Items .................................................................................................................................... 11 Section 3 Payment for Care .................................................................................................................................. 1 3 Section 3 ............................................................................................................................................... 1 3.1 Bookings ............................................................................................................................................... 1 3.1.1 Booking Options ................................................................................................................................... 1 3.1.1.1 Permanent Bookings ............................................................................................................................ 1 3.1.1.2 Casual Bookings ................................................................................................................................... 1 3.1.2 Pupil Free Days .................................................................................................................................... 2 3.1.3 Vacation Care Bookings ....................................................................................................................... 2 3.2 Fees ...................................................................................................................................................... 2 3.2.1 Procedures ........................................................................................................................................... 2 3.2.2 Childcare Benefit .................................................................................................................................. 2 3.2.2.1 Allowable Absences .............................................................................................................................. 3 3.2.2.2 Approved Absences .............................................................................................................................. 3 3.2.3 Late Fees .............................................................................................................................................. 4 3.2.4 Late Drop Off Fees Specific to Windsor State School Children ........................................................... 4 3.2.5 Overdue Fees ....................................................................................................................................... 4 3.2.6 Cancellations and Refunds ................................................................................................................... 5 3.2.7 Vacation Care ....................................................................................................................................... 5 3.3 Attendance ............................................................................................................................................ 5 Section 4 Useful Contacts .................................................................................................................................... 1




1.0 14 January 2012 Section 1 Page 1




SECTION 1 GENERAL INFORMATION ABOUT WSACC

Section 1

WSACC Philosophy

Windsor School Age Care Centre Inc. (WSACC) offers a child-focused educative program that aims to provide children with a warm, friendly, safe, caring and enjoyable environment.

We aim to meet the needs of our local community to provide quality school age care in which children can participate in interesting and fun learning opportunities.

WSACC and its educators strive to create a learning environment deliberately designed to allow exploration and discovery so that children may enhance life skills while promoting their right to grow with a confident self-image.

Values and Beliefs

WSACC believes:

The children’s physical, emotional and social needs need to be met in a safe, caring and supportive environment;

The wellbeing and best interests of the children are our paramount concern; and

In respect for others and self, including other’s cultures and individual needs.

WSACC will provide care in a way that:

Protects children from harm;

Respects children’s dignity and privacy;

Promotes children’s wellbeing and growth; and

Provides positive educational and developmental experiences to children.

WSACC provides meaningful programs, which incorporate elements of play with real-life experiences and freedom of choice in activities, balanced with age-appropriate programming and opportunities for child-initiated planning.

WSACC strives to provide consistent, quality childcare while at the same time acknowledging the individual uniqueness and interests of all children whenever possible in the day-to-day running of WSACC.

WSACC operates within a quality framework to foster, support and plan continuous improvement in its provision of education and care services.

Children, parents/caregivers, educators and relevant community members need to be treated with respect and their views in relation to the proper operation of WSACC should be considered and valued.

WSACC recognises and respects and supports parents/caregivers as primarily responsible for the upbringing, protection and development of their children.

WSACC encourages and welcomes open discussion on all issues relevant to its operation.

That childcare needs to be both affordable and accessible.








WSACC Goals

For each individual child to develop an understanding of themselves and others.

For each child to develop emotionally, socially, physically, culturally and cognitively.

For each child to grow in independence, confidence and responsibilities.

For each child to participate in independent learning through self-selection of activities, enabling them to develop skills and knowledge appropriate to developmental age and stage.

For each child to feel as though they are participating and part of a team which is WSACC.

For each child to develop an active and positive approach to life, encouraging them to reach achievable goals in a safe and secure environment.

For educators, children and families to develop a relationship based on trust, respect and open communication.

To reflect a diverse multicultural perspective and show acceptance of all people as equal.

To provide a program responsive to individual as well as group needs and interests.

To provide a wide variety of relaxing, educationally stimulating and enjoyable activities for children.

To provide an environment where families have the opportunity to contribute to the decisions and operations of WSACC.

To provide opportunities for information, advice and support for families, fostering a sense of community and mutual support.

To regularly reflect on and re-evaluate all issues relevant to the operation of WSACC, by way of open discussion with all stakeholders, in order to promote continuous improvement of WSACC and ensure a continuing standard of high quality care.

Hours of Operation

WSACC is open during school terms and school holidays from Monday to Friday.

In the case of any alterations parents will be notified well in advance. In the instance of early school dismissal, the Centre will open earlier and an extra fee will be charged accordingly.

The Centre offers continuity of care for Pupil Free, School Closure Days and Vacation Care.

Before School Care – 6:00am – 8:50am After School Care – 3:00pm – 6:30pm

Vacation Care – 6:00am – 6:00pm Pupil Free Days – 6:00am – 6:00pm

Weekend Care – 6:00am – 10:00pm Evening Care – 6.30pm – 10:00pm








General Program Outline

Pupil Free Days, School Closure Days and Vacation Care

6:00 am Centre Opens

Centre based activities, Indoor / Outdoor Play, Free / Structured Play/breakfast til 10.00 am

10:00 am Centre based activities, Indoor / Outdoor Play, Free / Structured Play/Excursions

12:30 pm Lunchtime

1:00 pm Centre based activities, Indoor / Outdoor Play, Free / Structured Play/Optional Excursions

3:30 pm to 5:00 pm

Afternoon Tea available

4:00 pm Centre based activities, Indoor / Outdoor Play, Free / Structured Play

6:00 pm Centre Closes.

Before School Care 6:00 am to 8:50 am

All Children must be dropped off ad signed in by parents / caregivers no later than 8.30.

Centre Opens, breakfast (7.30 – 8.30), activities, indoor/outdoor/homework.

Windsor State School children depart at 8:40am.

St Mary of the Cross children depart 8.20am

8.40 am to 8.50 am

Windsor State School children vehicle and walking transport travel to Windsor

After School Care 3:00pm to 3:15 pm

St Mary of the Cross children arrive, roll marked

3:00pm to 3:30 pm

Windsor State School children walk to WSACC

3:00 pm to 5.00pm

Afternoon Tea available

3.15 pm Indoor / Outdoor play, Themed activities, Free Play / Structured Play / Homework

5:30 pm Quieter activities / Indoor Play / Homework

6:30 pm Centre Closes

Evening Care 6.30pm to

10pm

Quiet evening activities such as board games building, craft. Individual programming for each child targeting interests and opportunities for learning. Diner provided if needed.








Weekend Care 6:00 am to 10pm

Centre Opens

Individually tailored programs for each child negotiated with children and families to meet the interests and needs of children matched with the skill sets of our educators.

Both centre based activities and excursions are available.

All food can be provided if needed.

Children can sleep if appropriate.

1.6 Our Licensee

The Centre is licensed under the Education and Care Services National Law 2010 as Windsor School Age Care Centre Inc. As such we must comply with the Act and Regulations in areas such as the activities undertaken, experiences and programs, the numbers of staff and children and staff qualifications. We are a community based, non-profit, incorporated association and carry out business in our own name.

Parent/Caregiver Participation and the Management Committee

Parent/Caregiver participation is encouraged throughout all aspects of the Centre. For instance, a parent/caregiver management committee supports the staff and licensee (Management Committee Executive) with the day to day running of the Centre.

Committee members must be financial members of the Centre.

The election of the Management Committee executive is held at the Annual General Meeting (“AGM”). Management meetings are scheduled at least every two months at a date and time determined by the Committee and advertised on the Centre’s notice board.

The meetings have an agenda to ensure a seamless and productive time allotment.

Items for discussion can be submitted to the Coordinator or a member of the Management Committee until 5.00 pm the day prior to the scheduled meeting.

Policy and management issues should be directed to the Management Committee via the Complaints Handling Policy outlined in this manual1.

Periodically, a review of certain aspects of the Centre such as Policies and Procedures is conducted for which we ask families to participate in a number of ways, including sub-committees and surveys. Your participation not only allows you to have your say, it ensures that our services are the best attainable.

A Strategic Plan has been developed for our Centre. It is briefly reviewed at each management meeting, with a full review conducted annually at the post AGM meeting. All stakeholders involved in the Centre are involved in the Strategic Plan.

Parents/caregivers are encouraged to attend management meetings.

Policies and Procedures

The Centre has an extensive Policy and Procedure manual, which reflects the Philosophy, Values and Goals of our Centre.

1 Refer Complaints Handling Policy - Section 9.5 Complaints Handling








This manual is a large document, which will be made available, upon request, to you to access at any time. For easy referencing a copy is kept next to the sign in/out book on the Parent/Caregiver sign in/out table.

The Centre’s Policy and Procedures comply with the Education and Care Services National Law 2010 and relevant regulations. These documents provide detail on for example the activities, experiences and programs, number of Educators and children and Educators’ qualifications.

Enrolment and Orientation2

Children attending primary school in Queensland including Prep are eligible to attend our service. Some older children also attend.

Parents/caregivers are required to attend the centre to complete an enrolment form and to develop an inclusion/orientation plan before any child(ren) attends the Centre.

This Parent Handbook will be accessible on our website and can be provided in hardcopy if requested. The handbook details selected policies and conditions of enrolment which allows the Centre to obtain all appropriate information relating to the specific needs of your child(ren), as well as contact information.

You will be shown around the Centre and advised on basic operations such as staffing and programming principles. You are also encouraged to ask any questions you might have about the Service.

A flow chart highlighting the efficiency, yet tailored approach is provided below:

Information Required from Parents / Caregivers

Information will be required from the parent/caregiver:

Personal details (name, address, and date of birth);

Name, home and work address and phone numbers of parent/guardian;

Name, home and work address and phone number and relationship to child of persons (authorized nominee) who may be collected for emergency collection;

Parental/guardianship and/or residential details (if any), including copies of relevant court orders;

Relevant health, medical and immunization details;

Name, address and phone number of child’s doctor;

Any special physical, emotional, dietary, religious, cultural or other needs or considerations relating to the child;

Authorisations for WSACC Coordinator (or nominated educator) to:

- Provide emergency medical treatment;

- Apply/assist to apply SPF+30 sunscreen;

- Take and/or display children’s photographs; and

- Collect the child from School and transport them to WSACC via agreed means (if required).

2 Refer Enrolment Policy and Communication with Parents Policy - Sections 9.2 and 9.3








- Medication approval forms, such as approval to administer any prescribed medication, asthma medication, self (child) administering medication, etc.

WSACC cannot provide its services to a child, and may refuse to do so, if the parent/guardian refuses to give any or all of the above information, as WSACC will not be able to discharge its Duty of Care and other responsibilities to the child without this information.

WSACC will, on a regular basis, request families to update children’s enrolment forms to ensure all parent/guardian and emergency contact information is current.

All information obtained through the enrolment procedures will be kept in strictest confidence and used only for the purposes for which it is obtained3.

Additional Needs

If your child(ren) has additional needs, a meeting may be arranged between relevant parties (e.g. Parents/guardians; Coordinator; occupational therapist, teacher) before the child commences.

Issues discussed will focus on the:

level of support required;

duration of support;

necessary training of staff and/or volunteers;

safety of all children enrolled;

environmental factors;

sources of information and resources/support services that will ensure the best possible care of the child.

This information will help the Centre meet the needs of your child(ren), and where necessary, seek assistance from specialist support workers.

All information obtained through the enrolment procedure will be held in the strictest confidence and used only for the purposes for which it is obtained. It is in your child(ren)’s best interest that the information provided to the service is kept up to date.

Parents/caregivers are to provide staff in our office with any alterations to the information provided through the enrolment process as changes occur.

3 Refer Policy Information Handling [Privacy and Confidentiality] – Section 10.8








Parent / Guardian Applies for Enrolment of

Child(ren)

Orientation Plan Developed

Enrolment Meeting Between Enrolling Parent

/ Guardian and Service Coordinator

Administrative Details Collected

Set Up AccountsFamily Linked to Child

Care Management System (CCMS)

Legislative Requirements Completed

Relevant Policies Discussed Between Enrolling Parent /

Guardian and Service Coordinator

Enrolling Parent / Guardian Facility and Culture Orientation

Child Enrolled

Transfer Of Data To WSACC Qidkids Childcare

Management Software

WSACC Educational Leader Develops

Strategies for Orientation Plan

WSACC Team Meeting Before First Attendance to Articulate Goals and

Implementation Strategy

Childs Orientation Session

Introduced to Educators, Tour of WSACC, Other

Routines

WSACC Educational Leader Develops

Strategies for Orientation Plan

Child Induction Complete

Daily Team Meeting: Feed Back Any Relevant Data and Changes Initial

Plans

Ongoing Monitoring and Adjustment

Figure 1 Enrolment Flowchart








Family Communication4

The Centre communicates information with the families that is relevant to any number of matters considered important in a number of ways, including:

regular newsletters; and/or

parent sign in and notice board area; and/or

regular meetings between Coordinator/educators and parents/guardians; and/or

notices written by the Coordinator, and approved by the Management Committee, being given to parents/guardians when there are matters of changed policy and it is important for the changes to be communicated before the next newsletter or monthly meeting; and/or

Blasts and notifications sent through WSACC social networking site (if applicable).

The Centre has a current edition of the Lifeline Community Directory for South-East Queensland, which can be accessed through the Coordinator.

Feedback is important to the Centre. A number of surveys are conducted throughout the year and a suggestion box and confidential grievance procedure is available for all Centre users.

Respect for Children5

The children, and their wellbeing, health and safety, are the main focus of the Centre.

Staff will at all times treat children as unique and valued individuals and with respect and dignity.

Children are to be considered and as far as possible involved in the ongoing development of the Centre program including rules of behaviour and the physical and aesthetic environment of the Centre.

Children are also encouraged to show appropriate levels of respect for our staff.

Child Protection6

The Centre regards its role in the protection of children in its care of utmost importance. This includes the Centre’s moral and legal duties to care for children associated with the Centre whilst not in the care of their parents/caregivers.

Windsor School Age Care Centre Inc. has an obligation to all children attending the service to defend their right to care and protection.

To support this right, the Centre will follow the procedures as determined in:

Education and Care Services National Law Act, 2010 and Regulations 2011;

Child Protection Regulations 2000;

Commission for Children and Young People and Child Guardian Act 2000; and

Commission for Children and Young People Amendment Regulation (No 1) 2006.

4 Refer Communication with Families Policy - Section 9.3 5 Refer Respect For Children Policy - Section 2.1 6 Refer Child Protection Policy - Section 2.2 and Reporting Policy - Section 2.5








when dealing with any allegations of abuse or neglect of children, to ensure the child’s and other children’s protection.

The Centre also has a responsibility to its employees to defend their right to confidentiality unless allegations against them of abuse are proven.

All staff have been made aware of the Child Protection Policy and the Reporting Policy of the Centre through induction and training procedures.

All staff and executives of the Management Committee and any subcommittees have current Blue Cards, a prerequisite by law for working with children.

Photos7

On occasion your child(ren) may be photographed participating within the day to day activities facilitated at the Centre. These photos may be used within the Centre as part of our programming and documentation process.

The children take great pride in having their day to day lives documented this way.

If photos are taken at any other time or for use in any other project such as marketing material for the Centre, or if we have a student who wants to conduct a child profile as part of their studies, parents/caregivers will be consulted and written permission requested to provide.

Children are not allowed to use personal mobile phone cameras or cameras in the centre.

Priority of Access and Non-Discriminatory Access8

This Centre will ensure that parents/caregivers and children have access to quality childcare that is appropriate to their needs, regardless of income, social, religious or cultural background, gender or abilities.

We primarily provide care for primary school age children attending school between prep and Grade 7.

We are able to provide care for early high school age children if we have available places and the inclusion needs of those children is considered appropriate and not detrimental to the care of our primary aged children.

Prep children are able to commence care from the first day they are eligible to attend school.

The Centre follows the priority of access guidelines set down in the Education and Care Services National Law Act, 2010 and Regulations 2011. A copy of this is located at the Centre). These guidelines will be balanced with the principles of non-discriminatory access and inclusion.

First priority A child at risk of serious abuse or neglect

Second priority

A child of a single parent who satisfies, or have parents who both satisfy, the work/training/study test under section 14 of the Family Assistance Act

Third priority Any other child

If your child is in the third priority group within these guidelines, you may be required to relinquish your place to a child who is in the first or second priority group.

You will be given 14 days notice to examine care options for your child(ren).

7 Refer Policy Use of Photographic and Video Images of Children in Section 2.13 8 Refer Access Policy - Section 9.1








Your child(ren) will then be placed on a waiting list and be re-entered into the program when a place becomes available.

Confidentiality9

All personal records are maintained in a secure and confidential manner.

All information will be limited to use by the Centre as outlined in the Information Handling (Privacy and Confidentiality) Policy section 10.8.

You may access your child(ren)’s personal records at any time if you are the authorised parent/caregiver who has enrolled the child.

To access these records please contact the Coordinator in writing.

Parent Code of Conduct10

Staff are available for parents to speak briefly to whenever the Centre is open. Appointments of a lengthier, more confidential nature can be made with the Coordinator.

If you wish to speak to someone other than the Coordinator please apply the steps outlined in the Complaints Handling Policy Section 9.5 contained in the Policies and Procedures Manual11. This ensures an opportunity for you to express any concerns you may have regarding the operation of the Centre in a suitable manner.

Parents/Caregivers are expected to conduct themselves in an appropriate manner at all times when at the Centre. Raised voices swearing etc. will not be tolerated.

Any parent/caregiver not behaving appropriately will be asked to leave and further advice will be sought from Management. Persistent inappropriate behaviour and language may result in enrolment removal for that family

Parents/Caregivers are asked not to address any behavioural issues with children who are not their own. Please speak to an Educator if you have an issue with a child or children at the Centre.

9 Refer Policy Information Handling - Privacy and Confidentiality Section 10.8 10 Refer Policy Complaints Handling Policy - Section 9.5 11 This manual is a large document, which will be made available, upon request, to you to access at any time. For easy referencing a copy is kept next to the sign in/out book on the Parent/Caregiver sign in/out table.








Staffing12

Educator Ratios13

Educator/child ratios will be in keeping with, or better than, those set out in the Education and Care Services National Regulations 2011.

In setting educator ratios, consideration will be given to the activities undertaken, ages and abilities of the children, group dynamics and any special needs that the children may have.

At all times children are actively supervised to ensure they are protected:

At the Centre: Minimum of 1 educator for every 15 children.

During excursions: 1 educator for every 8 children.

“walking bus” transport: 1 educator for every 8 children.

During water activities: 1 educator for every 5 children.

Educator Development

The Centre Management supports in-house and external professional development for all Educators on an ongoing basis throughout each Educator’s career. This is supported through the annual budget and analysis of training needs.

Educator Experience

Our Educator have a wide variety of experience in school age care, recreational, sporting, welfare and childcare settings.

Educator Suitability

Educator employment, orientation and training procedures are used to ensure that the Centre employs suitable people and that they have been made aware of the Centre’s Child Protection Policy.

All Educators hold a current Suitability Card for Child Related Employment, issued by the Commission for Children and Young People. Two staff are present at the Centre at all times.

Educator Identification

Photos of staff are displayed at the Centre so that you are aware of who is caring for your child(ren).

Suggestions, Complaints and Concerns

WSACC complaints officers contact details are listed within our prescribed notices on the parent notice

12 Refer Policy Group 8 Educators, Staff Members and Volunteers 13 Refer Staffing Ratios Policy - Section 2.3








board.

We aim to provide a high standard of care and create a happy and positive experience, but accept that on the odd occasion this may not be the case. In such circumstances WSACC endeavours to learn from any mistakes.

To be able to learn from our mistakes, WSACC invites comments and complaints from children, parents/guardians, employees, school faculty and the greater community.If you have any suggestions, complaints or concerns please raise them in the first instance with the Coordinator.

If this process is unsatisfactory our Management Committee may be contacted directly.

Contacts for the Management Committee are listed on the Centre information sheet you receive when enrolling.

Other avenues of communicating your suggestions are via the ‘Suggestion Box’ at the signing in desk, by attendance at the regular Management meetings, utilisation of the Centre Website, parent information sessions or via surveys conducted through the newsletter.

Please feel free to discuss any issues at any time as the Centre both values and encourages your participation and feedback as it enhances the service provided.

Complaints Handling Philosophy14

The Coordinator is the first point of contact for all complaints. The Coordinator will provide written acknowledgement of all complaints to the complainant.

WSACC respects and considers all complaints, and seriously and attempts to find a satisfactory resolution wherever possible.

This policy constitutes the WSACC formal complaints procedure. It is displayed on the premises at all times.

The Coordinator will seek to resolve all genuine and reasonable complaints in the most appropriate way possible in consultation with the complainant. Discussions with the complainant are not to be conducted in presence of the children, other employees or parents, and heated discussions are to be avoided as far as possible.

Complaints Handling Procedures15

If a user of the service has a complaint regarding some aspect of the setting’s activity, or about the conduct of individual Educators, it will often be possible to resolve this by speaking to the individual educator or if inappropriate, the Service Coordinator / Centre Manager.

If a resolution to the situation has not resulted during informal discussion, the parents / Educators / School faculty / greater community should then put their complaint in writing to the Service Coordinator / Centre Manager, stating relevant names, dates, evidence and any other important information of the nature of complaint.

WSACC will acknowledge receipt of the complaint as soon as possible – within one working day if received by email and within three working days from the date of receipt if sent by post. The

14 Refer Complaints Handling Policy - Section 9.5 Complaints Handling 15 Refer Complaints Handling Policy - Section 9.5 Complaints Handling








Service Coordinator / Centre Manager will scan and email a copy of the formal complaint to the President of the Parent Management Committee. WSACC will fully investigate the complaint within 15 working days. If there is likely to be a delay in this process, the parents / Educators / School faculty / greater community will be advised and an explanation given.

WSACC will maintain open regular communications with the complainant during the investigation. The Committee President will be responsible for sending a full and formal response regarding the complaint and all findings.

The Service Coordinator / Centre Manager is normally the first contact for all comments and/or complaints. However the complainant will have direct access to the Management Committee, and the Coordinator will permit and, if appropriate, encourage the complainant to do so, if:

the complaint is about the conduct of the Coordinator;

the complainant is not comfortable to take the complaint to the Coordinator;

the complainant is not satisfied with the Coordinator’s handling of the complaint; and / or

the complaint is about a matter of Management and Administration Policy.

Using the Complaint / Incident Form, the Service Coordinator / Centre Manager will record all details of the complaint, any relevant discussions, and if appropriate, the resolution of the complaint. Both the Service Coordinator / Centre Manager and complainant should sign this form with a copy provided to the complainant on request.

To protect the privacy of all individuals, and encourage openness and honesty in the handling of complaints, the complaints record form is a confidential document, which will not be accessible to any person, provided that the Coordinator will provide copies of relevant entries only to a complainant on request.

All complaints are taken seriously and if WSACC feels further action or changes to our working practice, policies or procedures should be made, these will be undertaken.

If the Manager has good reason to believe the complaint has child protection implications, the designated Child Protection Officer will be informed and local Social Services contacted according to the procedure set out in the Child Protection Policy.

If any party involved in the complaint has good reason to believe a criminal offence has been committed, they will contact the police.

If at any stage during the above process the parents / Educators / School faculty / greater community wish to take up the matter with the national regulatory body for childcare Office for Early Childhood Education and Care. The Department will consider and investigate all complaints received. All information will be shared with the parents and other agencies unless this is detrimental to the child.

Information is only shared with other Educators if necessary to do so.

Staff may be suspended during a complaints procedure depending on the severity of the complaint.

WSACC’s Complaints Procedure Flowchart is provided below:








Formally discuss complaint / concern with

relevant staff member

No

Resolved?

Yes

Contact Management Committee President

Jenny WildM: 0433 197 567

E: [email protected]

Document complaint / concern and discussion

Document resolution

If unresolved, raise complaint / concern with

Service Coordinator

Document discussion

No

Resolved?

Yes Document resolution

Contact Department:

Office for Early Childhood Education and Care

Department of Education, Training and Employment

A: PO Box 15033CITY EAST QLD 4002

T: 1800 637 711F: (07) 3234 0310E: [email protected]: http://deta.qld.gov.au/earlychildhood/about/contact.html

to notify a complaint / concern with provision of

service

Complaints Procedure Flowchart

Document discussion

Document resolution

Complaint / Concern Resolved

Figure 2 Complaints Procedure Flowchart








SECTION 2 CARING FOR YOUR CHILD(REN)

Section 2

Arrivals and Departures16

The Centre’s responsibility begins when the enrolled child is signed into the premises and ends when the child leaves the premises. Parents/caregivers must notify the Centre if their child is going to be absent from booked care.

At times of arrival and departure from the Centre, children must be signed in and out by an authorised person. Prior arrangement must be made with the Coordinator for any person other than those identified on the enrolment form to collect children from the Centre. It is a safety requirement that all persons collecting child(ren) will be required to provide proof of identity.

If you require your child(ren) to attend extra-curricular activities (e.g. swimming, tennis etc.) within the school grounds then written authority must be provided indicating a release of the Centre’s duty of care whilst the child participates in such activities. Educators will be available to escort children to and from these activities.

Centre Educators will not permit children to leave the Centre unaccompanied unless written authorisation detailing time of departure and return (if applicable) indicating a release of Duty of Care is supplied.

If children who are booked into the Centre for after school care have not been accounted for by 3.20pm, parents/caregivers will be contacted, and if necessary emergency numbers, provided by the parents/caregivers.

It is the parent/caregiver’s responsibility to keep their contact details current. Staff may also verify the whereabouts of a child through classmates or the school if necessary.

Signing In and Out

Before School Care

Parents/caregivers are required to sign the attendance sheet to constitute the “signing in” to care.

Children are released at 8.50am by Centre staff, after “signing out”.

Prep children are escorted to their classrooms by an educator and Year One's for at least the first term of each year

After School Care

Children are required to assemble at the designated sign in area on arrival at after school care.

Staff tick child(ren)’s name to constitute sign in.

16 Refer: Arrivals and Departures of Children Policy - Section 2.4








A designated Educator collects prep children from their classrooms and ensures children are “signed in”.

Prep children from St Mary of the Cross School are collected by a designated Educator and escorted to the designated sign in area.

Please Note: Parent / caregivers of Windsor State School Children must:

Ensure the child(ren) arrive and is signed into WSACC no later than 08.30 am for Before School Care. Failure to comply may result in the application of a separate fee17.

Provide WSACC with a signed Transport Authority for Windsor State School as part of enrolment procedure authorising WSACC to collect and drop off their child(ren)18.

Late Collection and Fee Payable

The Centre asks for your cooperation by collecting your child(ren) by 6.00pm during vacation care and 6.30pm during the school term. Late pick-ups are upsetting for the child(ren) and stressful for all staff. If an emergency arises and you are unable to collect your child(ren) on time, please contact the Centre immediately.

Parents/caregivers who collect their children after this time will incur a late fee equal to 1 ½ times the extra wages paid to the two remaining staff for the time they are required to wait with children for the first hour and then double time will be charged thereafter.

If a child(ren) is not collected within half an hour of normal closing time, i.e. 7:00 pm (note vacation care times would signify 6.30 pm) and contact has not been established the Coordinator will in the first place, establish crisis care for the child and secondly, notify Police that crisis care has been established for the child.

Children Leaving without Permission

If a child leaves the Centre in any other circumstances and for any reason without permission, the staff will assess the situation immediately and will call the parent/caregiver as quickly as reasonably possible and if deemed necessary, the police.

Child Code of Conduct

As part of our commitment to quality care for the children at our Centre and in support of our philosophy statement, we have implemented a set of guidelines for great behaviour. These guidelines are developed with input from the children to allow a sense of ownership over what occurs within “their” space.

The guidelines are displayed prominently throughout the Centre.

Custody

Parents/caregivers who have custodial rights and do not wish the other parent/caregiver to have contact with their child(ren) must provide a current copy of the custodial papers.

17 Refer Policy Section 10.4.2.3 Late Drop Off Fees Specific to Windsor State School Children 18 Refer Policy Section 9.1 Enrolments








Whilst every care will be taken to prevent a child(ren) being taken by an unauthorised person, there may be instances in which we cannot prevent this from happening.

Our staff cannot expose themselves or the other children to an unacceptable risk of personal harm.

If a child is taken without consent the parent/caregiver, emergency contacts and police will be immediately notified.

Safety19 20 21

The Centre adopts a proactive approach to ensuring staff and children are aware of, and understand, evacuation and other emergency procedures.

Evacuation and harassment plans are situated in the entrance area on the Parent Notice Board and throughout the Centre.

We ask all parents/caregivers, staff and children to familiarise themselves with the procedures. Fire, evacuation and harassment drills are practiced regularly.

Should you be present during a drill, please participate.

Regular evacuation procedures give the children an opportunity to become familiar with the routine and planned evacuation/harassment procedure.

The Centre’s fire fighting equipment is serviced every six months.

Health and Hygiene22 23 24 25 26

The wellbeing of all children who attend the Centre is of the highest priority. To safeguard the health of all children and prevent the spread of infection, please keep your child(ren) at home until they are fully recovered from an illness.

All children who are suffering from an infectious disease will be excluded from the Centre to prevent others being introduced to the infection.

The Centre does not have appropriate facilities to care for sick children.

Staff observe stringent hygiene practices throughout the day and the Centre is cleaned daily. Equipment is routinely checked to ensure that it is well-maintained, clean and safe for children’s use.

In the case of a minor injury or illness, an Educator will attend to the incident and a report will be completed in the illness and injury log book advising of the relevant details.

19 Refer Policy: General Health and Safety Section 4.1 20 Refer Policy: Workplace Health and Safety Section 6.3 21 Refer Policy: Emergency Equipment and Facilities Section 7.1 22 Refer: Policy General Health and Safety Section 4.1 23 Refer: Policy Infectious Diseases Section 4.2 24 Refer: Policy Hygiene Section 4.3 25 Refer: Policy Preventative Health and Wellbeing Section 4.4 26 Refer: Policy Illness and Injury Section 4.5








A note will be placed on the attendance roll to bring your attention to the minor injury. Please sign this log after speaking with staff to verify you have been advised of the incident.

Children and staff will wear hats and appropriate clothing when outside.

Staff will encourage children, including by way of modelling behaviour, to avoid excessive exposure to the sun (this is reflected in the timing of outdoor activities) and to wear suitable sunscreen (at least SPF 30+), which is reapplied according to the manufacturers recommendations.

Illness and Injury27 28 29 30 31

WSACC proactively strives to avoid injuries occurring at WSACC, and to minimise the impact of injuries and illnesses by responding appropriately and as quickly as possible, to all injuries and illnesses. The rights and responsibilities of parents with respect to injuries and illnesses of their children is acknowledged and will be taken into account in administering all procedures.

For the safety and wellbeing of children and staff, children with infectious diseases will be excluded from the Centre until such time as they are medically deemed to be no longer infectious.

An educator will promptly telephone a parent/caregiver if a child has been involved in an accident or becomes ill where further medical advice/treatment should be sought. Qualified staff will administer basic First Aid only. If contact cannot be made and it is necessary to seek medical attention immediately, an ambulance will be called and the child will be taken to hospital.

Children who become ill at the Centre will be provided an area this is as quiet as possible with a sick bed/couch to rest while their parents/caregivers are contacted. Parents/caregivers are requested to advise the Centre (via enrolment forms) of their child’s particular health needs, including medication.

If a child has a severe reaction or other illness in which timing is vital, an action plan may be developed between the Centre, parents/caregivers and health professional to ensure immediate action in the case of an incident. Please ensure the Centre is aware of this both by detailing on enrolment form and informing the Coordinator upon enrolment of your child.

Please ensure emergency contacts are updated on enrolment forms regularly.

Medication32

In the interests of health and wellbeing of the children, WSACC will only permit medicines to be administered to a child if a medical practitioner prescribes the medicine, and it is directed in writing by the medical practitioner to be administered during operational hours. Medicine must be in its original packaging with a chemist label attached. The chemist label must state the child’s name and the dose of medication required.

Medication will be administered by the Coordinator or an Educator nominated by the Coordinator and will be recorded in a Medication Register to be signed off by another witness.

27 Refer: Policy General Health and Safety Section 4.1 28 Refer: Policy Infectious Diseases Section 4.2 29 Refer: Policy Hygiene Section 4.3 30 Refer: Policy Preventative Health and Wellbeing Section 4.4 31 Refer: Policy Illness and Injury Section 4.5 32 Refer: Policy Medication Section 4.6








WSACC recognizes and acknowledges the skill and competence of children in working collaboratively with families to enable children to self-administer medications, with prior parent authority.

Separate forms are to be completed for children suffering from Asthma.

Separate medication approval forms are to be completed for children requiring WSACC or self-administration of prescription medications, such as approval to administer any prescribed medication, asthma medication, self (child) administering medication, etc.

Daily Routines

Children are signed into the Centre by parents/caregivers each morning. Breakfast is available from 7.30 am til 8.30 am.

A typical morning could consist of children completing homework, reading, playing board games, and together or outside play.

Children are signed out of care and may leave at 8.50 am to attend school.

Prep children are walked to their class at 8.50 am by Educators.

Children are taught the sign in procedure to ensure all children are accounted for as soon as possible after school.

Our kitchen is open for afternoon tea between 3pm and 5pm. A variety of structured activities such as craft, science, sports and music are organised daily. Opportunities for unstructured and child led play are also available to all children.

The importance of play, choice and decision making are supported through our program. Children are encouraged to explore, create, negotiate and plan their play time with educator support and assistance. Child led play in an important part of the centres programming philosophy.

Due to the large utilisation at our service we have deliberately removed elements of structure that might inhibit children achieving their goals and plans for their play time with us or that impose unnecessary control or authority upon them. Instead the programs routine is designed so that each child, once orientated, can use our environment with great flexibility and independence to make the most of their time.

The educators’ role is to support and provide assistance to children in achieving their goals.

Homework33

The Centre provides a quiet area and supervision by educators to enable children to do their homework at after school care.

A homework register is kept which identifies those children participating in the homework activity. Inclusion in or removal from the homework register must be advised by caregivers to educators.

Whilst the Centre supports the children attending to their homework, there is no assumption of responsibility for completion of work.

Staff cannot take responsibility for children who give excuses as to why they are unable to work on their homework on any given day. Staff will communicate with families on such issues.

33 Refer: Policy Homework Section 3.4








Breakfast, Morning and Afternoon Tea34

The Centre encourages and promotes the health and wellbeing of children through a healthy nutritious diet and in particular, by providing positive learning experiences during meal/snack times where good nutritional food habits are reinforced in a happy, social environment.

Nutritious and well-balanced snacks will be provided for breakfast, and afternoon tea. Through these snacks and cooking sessions, we endeavour to expose the children to various cultural cuisines.

Water is available to children at all times.

Please remember to record on your child(ren)’s enrolment form if your child(ren) has any food allergies or has a special dietary requirements (including religious or cultural).

Detailed information about our Nutrition Policy is available in our Policies and Procedures Manual, located in the sign in/out area of the Centre. Please feel free to discuss any comments, concerns or feedback you may have regarding our Nutrition Policy with the Coordinator.

The Centre utilises the Dietary Guidelines for Children and Adolescents in Australia (NHMRC 2003), the Governments Smart Choices program and the ‘My Time, Our Place’ Framework for School Age Care to help offer well balanced food choices.

All food preparation on the premises is carried out within the guidelines set down in the National Food Safety Standards and the Education and Care Services National Law Act, 2010 and Regulations 2011.

Behaviour Support and Management35 36

The aim of the Centre is to provide an atmosphere where children have positive and active learning experiences during their participation in our Centre.

The Centre aims to provide an environment that minimises the potential for frustration and / or conflict.

The Centre believes that children require guidance as to what to do, instead of what not to do; therefore, endeavouring to manage behaviour through a supportive model, which includes efficient supervision, provision of effective role models, directing or re-directing children to appropriate activities.

Educators work with children to understand the Centre’s Guidelines for behaviour, follow those guidelines and understand the consequences of not following them.

Each child will be treated sensitively, respectfully and with dignity, regardless of their social background, gender, ethnicity or abilities.

Encouragement and appreciation of appropriate behaviour will be given generously.

Physical, verbal and emotional punishment is regarded as unacceptable and will not be justified or permitted as a behaviour management technique.

If a pattern of inappropriate or concerning behaviour is identified staff will develop a behaviour contract for that behaviour in negotiation with parents/caregivers.

34 Refer: Policy Food and Nutrition Policy - Section 5.2 35 Refer Behaviour Support and Management Policy - Section 2.6 36 Refer Exclusion for Unacceptable Behaviour Policy - Section 2.7








If disruptive behaviour persists, consultation may be necessary with parents/caregivers, the child, Coordinator and Management Committee.

A child may be suspended from the program if unsatisfactory behaviour threatens the safety or wellbeing of any child or other person in the Centre or if the behaviour contract has been unsuccessful.

The Centre’s Guidelines for Great Behaviour have been developed in consultation with the children and staff and are reviewed regularly.

Students, Visitors and Volunteers37

Childcare students, visitors and volunteers may periodically visit the Centre.

During this time they may be required to complete tasks pertaining to the course they are undertaking including general observations of the Centre operations and programs.

If individual child observations are required, parents/caregivers will be informed and written permission will be sought prior to any observation occurring.

Additionally, no student, volunteer or visitor will be left in charge of a child or group of children.

All visitors to our Centre are required to operate within our Policies and Procedures.

Excursions38 39

The Centre will include excursions as a valuable part of the overall program. Excursions will provide enjoyment, stimulation, challenge, new experiences and a meeting point between the Centre and the wider community.

Maximum safety precautions will be maintained and parent/caregiver permission will be obtained before a child is taken on an excursion.

These forms contain the following information:

The date

Proposed destination

Times of departure and return

Method of transport used and expected travel times

Activities to be undertaken

Space for parent/caregiver signature indicating permission

Space for parent/caregiver contact phone number on that day

Children are required to have footwear for ALL excursions. Children MUST wear a hat (provided by parents) at all times during outdoor activities. The Centre provides sunscreen and will supervise the application of sunscreen.

37 Refer Volunteer Policy - Section 8.5 38 Refer Excursions Policy – Section 3.5 39 Refer Transport for Excursions Policy – Section 3.6








Please check Vacation Care schedule for daily requirements. Please note that there will be no changes to the notified itinerary except in unforeseen circumstances or unfavourable weather conditions.

All vehicles used in the transportation of children on excursions will comply with the Transport Operations (Road Use Management) Act, 1995 (QLD) and with all other appropriate legislation and regulations.

Maximum safety precautions will be maintained and parent permission will be obtained before a child travels on any type of transport or leaves the centre on an excursion.

Collection and Drop-Off of Children by WSACC

General

Our Centre is regularly responsible for the collection and drop-off of children from neighbouring schools.

Educators carry a walkie-talkie or mobile phone to remain in contact with the Centre at all times during this transition.

Routines are maintained to ensure educators are aware of exactly when, where and who to collect for consistency and maximum safety during transit.

Educators collect Prep children from their classrooms.

Windsor State School Transport for Collections and Drop off by WSACC

“Walking Bus” Details

The benefits of the walk for our Children in terms of their health, sense of self and belonging, mental and social development are a really good reason to use the option – with the additional benefit that walking is quicker event for Children who just want to start playing, reading, creating and socialising at WSACC.

The “Walking Bus” Program includes the following:

Safety Management. We will never use any less than a 1:8 ratio of Educator-to-child.

Children will wear a high visibility hat band over their school hats.

WSACC supervisors will be in full high visibility items.

Children are provided with suitable protective equipment for days when it rains.

Dual Routes. The Program uses two routes to enhance safety and to avoid waiting around at lights and intersections. It also prevents any congestion effects on local and main road traffic.

Each route starts at the Windsor State School central play space seating area.

Preps will always be collected from, and dropped off to their classroom teacher.








Meeting Area

Walking Bus Route 1 (WBR1):• Approx 270m• Approx time: 8 min (am); 7 min (pm)• Age Groups: Prep to Gde 3• Afternoon Route: Meet at 3.00pm (Preps collected

from classroom). From meeting at WSS Library, via bottom oval to Harris St / Lutwyche Rd intersection. Cross at lights. Down Roblane St to Holy Rosary School entrance. Enter WSACC complex.

• Mornings: Depart at 8.45am. Walk up Roblane St to pedestrian crossing. Cross Lutwyche Rd. Walk down Harris St to bottom oval. Through WSS to Meeting Area at WSS Library (preps to classroom).

Walking Bus Route 2 (WBR2):• Approx 400m• Approx time: 12 min (am); 10 min (pm)• Age Groups: Gde 4 to Gde 7• Afternoon Route: Meet at 3.00pm. From meeting area at WSS

Library, cross School Crossing at Constitution Rd. Walk to Constitution Rd / Lutwyche Rd intersection. Walk south on Lutwyche Rd to pedestrian crossing vicinity Bowen St. Cross at lights. Up Lutwyche Rd to Grafton St. Follow Grafton St to Holy Rosary School entrance. Enter WSACC complex.

• Mornings: Depart at 8.40am. Walk down Grafton St to Lutwyche Rd. Down Lutwyche Rd to pedestrian crossing vicinity Bowen St. Cross at lights. Up Lutwyche Rd to Constitution Rd. Up Constitution Rd to School Crossing at Constitution Rd. Cross Constitution Rd. Enter main entrance to WSS to Meeting Area at WSS Library .

Grade One children, new children and children with additional support needs will have the appropriate level of support provided in their transition to and from school. T

The dual routes – termed Walking Bus Route 1 (WBR1) and Walking Bus Route 2 (WBR2) – are illustrated in the diagram below.

Figure 3. Walking Bus Route 1 and 2








Sun Safe Appropriate Clothing40

During Before School and After School Care children will usually be dressed in school uniform.

During Vacation Care we ask that children wear comfortable clothing which will enable them to participate in a range of activities.

Please be aware clothing may become dirty during sport or craft activities. If you have a child who may possibly need more than one change throughout the day, please cater for this.

Children are to wear shoes at all times. We strongly discourage children wearing thongs or shoes that fall off readily.

Hats will be worn at all times when playing outside.

Appropriate clothing should be worn to protect from exposure to the sun.

Children not appropriately attired are not permitted to play outside between 10:00 am and 3:00 pm or participate in outdoor excursions during this time.

Children should at all times have clothing that covers the shoulders to protect them from the sun.

Tank tops, strappy tops etc. are not considered appropriate.

Even with sunscreen application it is difficult for staff to stop children getting burnt especially on excursions.

Babysitting

The Centre does not encourage or endorse educators and parents entering into private babysitting arrangements and therefore takes no responsibility nor accepts any liability in relation to such arrangements.

Programming41

The Centre plans, designs and provides a tailored program, catering to the children’s age, skills, interests and abilities through a variety of challenging and recreational activities. In developing programs, the Centre recognises the importance of an understanding of middle childhood and play in the development of children.

The principle of equal opportunity is applied in the Centre’s program. Children, regardless of gender, cultural, racial, religious background, will be encouraged to participate in a wide range of activities.

A variety of facilitated activities will be programmed for each day of Before School Care, After School Care and Vacation Care (e.g. cooking; painting; clay work; crafts; music; outdoor activities). Opportunities for unstructured and quiet play will also be provided, including areas for children to withdraw from all activities.

The Centre aims to provide a program for each child that develops each child’s social, emotional, lingual, physical, intellectual, social, creative and recreational potential and that are developmentally appropriate. Our program seeks to foster self-esteem and confidence in children by including their own ideas and goals into their program and provides experiences that encourage children to negotiate and cooperate with peers. Planned activities are also designed to reflect the multicultural and multilingual nature of our community.

40 Refer Preventative Health and Wellbeing Policy Section 4.4 41 Refer Policy Group 3 Program








Prep children are offered additional support to help ensure their experience of our service is positive and engaging. Any children not ready to participate independently will have an educator available whose role is to support their participation. Our orientation process identifies areas of interest and likely friendship groups for new children and educators are skilled at settling new children into our environments and routines.

Children choose activities based on their interests each session. Educators will also help guide children into appropriate activities if needed. Our program then effectively offers multi aged programming where older children mix with younger children on a daily basis. With this in mind all educators monitor the participation in each activity and adapt where necessary. Our experience is that all children benefit from interactions with children of other ages if managed well and interactions monitored. There are some occasions where programming is offered to meet the emerging needs abilities and interests of specific groups of children exclusively, (e.g. older children).

The Coordinator will happily discuss any aspect of the program with interested parents/caregivers. Feedback is regularly sought from parents/caregiver’s and children and used to influence and develop the program. The weekly program is posted on the Program Board located in Central Station and the house.

In order to ensure that its programs are effective to deliver the values, aims and objectives of the Centre, the Centre regularly evaluates the structure, process and content of its programs actively seeking feedback from parents and children via the suggestion box, newsletter surveys and parent/caregivers information evenings.

Personal Items

Whilst the Centre understands that children enjoy bringing personal items from home to use at the Centre (particularly video games, hand held computer games etcetera) it discourages this practice in an effort to avoid disappointment resulting from either loss or damage or inappropriate use. The Centre seeks the und

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