Little Lion philosophy

A Home away from Home
Nurturing Growth and Knowledge

Australian Early Years Learning Framework

At Little Lion, we embed the Australian Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF) at the core of our educational philosophy and daily practice. We are committed to delivering play-based, intentional learning experiences that promote holistic development across all areas identified in the EYLF outcomes. Our educators are guided by the framework’s principles, which emphasise secure, respectful, and reciprocal relationships, fostering a strong sense of identity and wellbeing for every child. We encourage children’s agency by supporting their natural curiosity, creativity, and confidence to explore their environment and express themselves.

Through responsive planning and ongoing observation, our educators tailor learning experiences to meet each child’s unique needs, interests, and cultural backgrounds, ensuring inclusion and respect for diversity. We also engage families as partners in learning, recognising their vital role in supporting children’s growth. By embedding the EYLF in everything we do, Little Lion creates a nurturing, stimulating environment where children are empowered to become confident, capable, and enthusiastic learners ready for their educational journey.

Play-Based Learning

At Little Lion, play-based learning lies at the very heart of our educational philosophy, fully integrated with the principles and learning outcomes outlined in the Australian Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF). We firmly believe that play is the most natural, effective, and joyful way for children to explore, discover, and make sense of the world around them. It allows children to engage actively with their environment, express their ideas, and develop a deep understanding of concepts in a context that is meaningful to them.

Our educators design and facilitate a rich variety of play experiences that include both child-initiated exploration and educator-guided activities. Through these experiences, children develop essential skills across all developmental domains—cognitive, social, emotional, and physical—building the foundation for well-rounded growth. By closely observing children’s individual interests, strengths, and learning styles, our educators intentionally weave the EYLF’s learning outcomes into play opportunities, creating activities that encourage creativity, problem-solving, effective communication, and collaboration with peers.

This thoughtful approach not only nurtures each child’s innate curiosity and sense of agency but also fosters their confidence and independence in a supportive and stimulating environment. By blending the freedom of play with intentional teaching strategies, Little Lion ensures that learning is both engaging and purposeful. Our aim is to prepare children not only for the next stages of their educational journey but also to instil a lifelong love of learning, resilience, and a strong foundation for success in all areas of life.

School Readiness Program

Little Lion’s School Readiness Program is carefully designed to support children in the preschool room as they prepare for the important transition to “big school.” Recognising that every child develops at their own pace, our program focuses on nurturing key skills such as communication, social interaction, emotional resilience, independence, and early literacy and numeracy. Through a range of play-based and intentional learning experiences, children engage in activities that build confidence, cooperation, problem-solving, and self-help abilities—all essential for a successful start to primary school.

Our experienced educators work closely with families to create personalised transition plans, ensuring each child’s strengths and needs are understood and supported. We also introduce children to routines and expectations similar to those they will encounter at school, helping to reduce anxiety and build familiarity. By fostering a positive attitude toward learning and school life, Little Lion’s School Readiness Program aims to empower children with the skills, confidence, and enthusiasm they need to embrace their next educational chapter with excitement and ease.

Inclusion & Diversity

At Little Lion, we are deeply committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse environment where every child and family feels valued, respected, and supported—regardless of their background. To ensure all children have the opportunity to thrive, we provide access to in-house Occupational Therapy and Speech Therapy services, tailored inclusion support, and personalised learning plans that address individual needs. Our culturally responsive approach embraces and celebrates diversity through activities such as Mandarin classes, cultural incursions and excursions, and special events that honour various traditions and languages. We also take pride in our diverse team of educators who bring a rich mix of cultural perspectives and languages, creating a welcoming environment where different cultures and languages are not only accepted but embraced. At Little Lion, inclusion and diversity are fundamental to our community, enriching every child’s learning experience and fostering a sense of belonging for all. 

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