Our Philosophy

Children are seen as active participants in creating their own learning environment within a safe indoor/outdoor program that fosters their well-being and development.
A child initiated play based program stimulates children’s learning, exploration and social connections.
Children are trusted to make choices and are part of setting up daily rituals.
Encouraging and supporting children in developing self-help skills, empowers them to become independent learners.
Children explore through a variety of sensory-based experiences. We aim to support every child’s unique learning style, their innate curiosity and their desire to play with confidence.
Children have access to a range of sensory-rich, open-ended and durable resources that supports their holistic learning and development.
Encouraging healthy eating practises along with healthy physical play experiences is important in a child’s early development.

Families are the primary influence on their child’s learning and development.
Respectful partnerships between Educators and each family are nurtured and valued.
All families have the opportunity to discuss the development and wellbeing of their children in a professional and confidential environment.
Everyone (Children, Educators & Families are given opportunities to share their natural gifts and skills. All members of our community experience moments of receiving and sharing guidance.

Positive, warm relationships with children, other Educators and families is the most important element in ensuring everyone feels safe, satisfied and connected.
Educators are intentional in their approach to creating meaningful opportunities for learning.
Educators explore and share diverse pedagogical practices and experiences.
Educators are intrinsically motivated to reflect on and enhance their professional development.
In having passionate and enthusiastic Teachers/Educators a part of our community to support the intention of our philosophy and vision along with their unique style of facilitating a children’s play space.

Making connections with the school and local community allows children to develop their sense of belonging.
The Lucknow community is enriched by celebrating and sharing similarities and differences.
Lucknow are dedicated to learning about and acknowledging Gunaikurnai people as traditional owners of the land and embedding culture and language into our programs.

At Lucknow, we use our environment to support positive behaviour.
Children thrive when connecting with their natural environment through open-ended play experiences and natural elements (dirt, water, sand)
Children form empathy towards all living things through enjoyment of nature and a sense of responsibility within quality environmental programs.
The Lucknow community are dedicated to promoting and implementing sustainable practices, including edible gardens.
Lucknow promotes the use of recycled, reusable, natural and sustainable resources.
Inspired by Walker Learning, Robin and Toni Christie (Childspace NZ) and Stephanie Alexander kitchen/garden program the environment is recognised for its potential to inspire children.