Goodstart Early Learning Bayswater north Goodstart Early Learning center operates on the basis of the educational philosophy according to which children are active learners. Such a child-focused plan is in line with the Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF) where the sense of belonging, being, and becoming is highlighted in the early years (McArdle et al., 2020). Children are regarded as active, successful learners who make use of the world through exploration, play, and social interaction. Play-based learning is one of the fundamental features of the Goodstart philosophy. Besides being a very natural and pleasant activity of children, play is a vital means of cognitive, emotional, and social development (Feldman & Kisloski, 2021). Children learn through action; it can be role-playing, constructing with blocks, or communication with peers, and all these activities help children develop creativity, problem-solving skills, and socialization. Goodstart teachers are very proactive in setting up an environment where the children can explore their interests and make sense of what is going on around them through playful experiences.
Another philosophy that is also applied in the centre is the notion that learning occurs best when it is done in an environment that is safe and nurturing and enables the promotion of respectful relationships. Goodstart also teaches the educators to establish a good relationship with the children that they are taking care of, to establish a sense of trust and mutual respect. According to Garvis et al., relationships form the foundation of the positive learning environment, where children will feel safe to venture out trying out new things and making mistakes in the process and learning along the way (Garvis et al., 2019). Moreover, another feature of Goodstart is the educational philosophy of inclusive practices. The centre enhances diversity and embraces all the children regardless of their background and competencies, making them feel valued and welcomed. Goodstart teachers are committed to making sure that all the children have good learning opportunities and this is achieved by providing them with opportunities which are sensitive to needs and interests of the child and his learning style.
This philosophy of inclusivity is also consistent with the EYLF principles, namely Outcome 2: Community, which states that children are supposed to be taught about the world with which they live and how to make a difference in it (Arthur et al., 2020). The group activities and the opportunity to play together enable the children to feel a part of something and the kids learn how to cooperate and respect one another and their differences. In conclusion, the philosophy of Goodstart Early Learning Bayswater north Goodstart Early Learning center rests on the premise that children learn in the best way when they are engaged in play and the fact that children learn through the nurturing and respectful relationships. The ethos of the centre corresponds with the EYLF and is intended at creating the love of learning, inclusivity, and close relationships with the community.