Samuel Gilbert OOSH Philosophy

Our service promotes a strong sense of being and belonging through our diverse and engaging environment valuing learning, play and leisure (aligning with Friedrich Froebel’s theory). We believe that all children are capable, competent, and active learners. We encourage all children to reach their full potential today and in the future.

Within our service, the best interests and needs of all individuals are equitably valued and supported. All children, educators and families are unique and respected, and have the right to meaningfully contribute to decision-making through collaborative partnerships. Children and families’ thoughts or feedback are documented through a range of processes. We actively prioritise physical, social, and emotional wellbeing of all children to reinforce a culture of inclusion and self-growth.

We respect the natural world we live in and are committed to ongoing improvement. Embedded into our service, we value the importance of educating and engaging in sustainable practices, providing opportunity for children to develop into concerned and global citizens.

Through our safe environment, with elements of risky play, we provide opportunities and experiences that are supportive of exploration, spontaneity and autonomy. Our broad learning areas and play spaces, such as our Gamarada Area, successfully contribute to this statement.

At Samuel Gilbert OOSH, we are unwavering in our commitment to the safety, wellbeing, and empowerment of all children. Guided by the National Principles for Child Safe Organisations and the Child Safe Standards, we foster a culture where safety, inclusion, and belonging are paramount. We uphold zero tolerance for child abuse, actively listen to children’s voices, and ensure our team is trained and accountable in child protection. Our service embraces cultural safety for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children, those from diverse backgrounds, and children with disabilities. Through robust policies, respectful practices, and shared responsibility, we strive to create a safe and nurturing environment for every child.

We value an inclusive, clean and nurturing environment, where children’s needs are of utmost importance, and a high level of trust is displayed between educators and children. We encourage and facilitate learning in regards to nutrition and the importance of exercise, as well as provide healthy meals, and implement hygienic practices. We have a commitment to wellbeing, with our Be You committee embedding it within our regular practice via experiences, research and training for both educators, children and their families.

We acknowledge the Darug people, the traditional custodians of this land that we live, work, and play on. Our service promotes a greater understanding of our broader community and many diverse cultures and perspectives, Including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders, through our embedded programming and practice, and with the support/guidance of our CAP Team (Cultural Action Plan). We encourage this learning through experiences focusing on art, sport, and language, as well as through onsite and offsite learning, so we can better enhance our connection to nature and the land.

Our team of educators are professional and cohesive and are supported by a dedicated management committee. Our service is committed to best practice in all areas and continuous improvement through reflective practices. This will be achieved by meaningful and constructive collaboration with children, educators, families, our school, and the community.

Updated September 2025

Vision and Mission

Samuel Gilbert OOSH constantly strives to value, play and discover within our service and the wiser community. Our vision and mission align directly with our service policies and overall practices.