Our Pedagogy
Many theories and guidance underpin our Pedagogy here at the centre but one of the most influential theories is the work of Frederick Froebel. Froebel’s work highlighted children learn best when experiencing activities first-hand rather than listening about them in a classroom seat. He viewed children as active, curious, creative and capable learners and so do we here at Williamsburgh. Therefore, we ensure to incorporate the seven principles of Froebel’s theory into our everyday practice. These principles are: Freedom with guidance; Unity, connectedness and community; Engaging with nature; Learning through self-activity and reflection; The importance of play; Creativity; Knowledgeable and supportive adults.
These principles have influenced our practice resulting in us here at Williamsburgh believing in creating a nurturing, interesting and thought-provoking environment where children are free to choose what and how they want to learn. This is because research shows children learn best when they have the opportunity to exercise their autonomy, follow their curiosities and can be creative. So, we ensure to provide such opportunities for our children ensuring supportive staff are at hand to harness these interest and use them to guide children’s learning and development.
Another influence of our pedagogy is the Reggio Emilia approach. Reggio’s work recognises children have a strong potential for development which can be achieved if the knowledgeable and interested adult can understand the one hundred languages of children. Reggio’s approach highlights the importance of knowing and understanding the multitude of different communication methods of children. Hence, within Williamsburgh ELCC we ensure to recognise all children as individuals, listen to their voice through a mosaic (multi-method) approach to ensure their right to a voice is adhered to. Just as the Reggio approach indicates – and we have adopted within Williamsburgh – all children have human rights which must be held in the upmost regard thus we strive to educate, promote and allow children to explore their rights.
To find out more about our establishment scroll down to the ‘About Us’ section where you can:
– Meet The Team
– Read our Standards and Quality Report
– Read our Improvement plan.
