Sophie

My Philosophy

I am inspired by the forest school/kindergarten movement. I am passionate about art and children learning in the outdoors. My teaching is guided by the ‘nature-based‘ and ‘play-based’ learning philosophies; taking a holistic approach to support each individual child’s social, emotional, physical and cognitive development, and utilising nature as our classroom.

I am enthusiastic about introducing children to new experiences and challenging them physically and creatively. I am passionate about loose parts play, and the creative learning opportunities and development this provides for little minds.

I strongly believe in the value of home based education – with the low ratios it provides a higher quality of care and creates the opportunity to be out and about exploring the world around us.

My Environment

We enjoy plenty of space at home, inside and out. There is a large covered deck with lots of shade. Resources include a mud kitchen/ messy play area with paint, sand, mud/clay, water play, and rain play! I focus on natural play resources and loose parts play. We have Duplo, lego, blocks, animals, dolls, play kitchen, dress-ups, arts and crafts, Play-Doh, books and equipment for drawing.

Outdoors there is a trampoline, climbing frame, swing, spa pool, bikes, scooters and balls. Together we enjoy cooking/baking and gardening.

We go out and about in our community. We have regular weekly beach trips to Wenderholm, Long Bay, Orewa, Stanmore Bay and Shakespeare (as our fav's) . I have a focus on nature and outdoor education. We visit local playgrounds and organise regular playdates with other educators. We also utilise indoor playgroups (when the weather is not so good), and have regular excursions to the Zoo.

My Training

I have a Bachelor of Education (ECE) from The University of Auckland. I am a fully Registered Teacher. I hold a current Practicing Certificate 2 and a current first-aid certificate.