The Preshil Philosophy
Introduction
Preshil recognises that human relationships are the fundamental basis of all learning. The child who enters Preshil is accepted unconditionally as she or he is. From that basis the teacher becomes the trusted leader in the education process. By starting “where the child is” the teacher is able to form an educational relationship with the child, which stimulates the child to find answers to questions of relevance to the child.
Teacher’s Philosophy
Preshil teachers know that the act of learning cannot take place solely through the actions of an external agent. The child is not a blank slate waiting to be written on but an active participant in the learning process who brings to the teacher/student relationship a depth of experience and a creative and intuitive mind. Thus the learning process takes place in an atmosphere of mutual respect, using inquiry, dialogue and discussion.
Children are Individuals
Central to the Preshil philosophy is the understanding that children develop at different rates and Preshil teachers will modify their programs to meet developmental needs. Each child is treated as an individual with individual needs. It is also understood that cognitive, emotional, psychological and social development may advance at different rates and in making any decision concerning the child, an holistic approach is taken.
The child at Preshil is taught to handle freedom through the setting of boundaries which gradually become irrelevant as the child develops an integrated self with a strong core of self discipline. Thus the child is encouraged to set personal goals within a socially responsible framework. Competition is replaced by co-operation as the purpose of growth becomes self-actualisation that acknowledges the growth and well-being of others.
Preshil’s philosophy is often described as “child-centred” because the school has, does and will continue to put the needs of the child at the forefront of its curriculum. Whilst we accept and welcome changes in technology and subject matter, the focus on the developmental needs of the child remains a constant. At Preshil the child is valued for himself or herself as a unique human being. From Nursery School through to Year 12 the child is given the encouragement, freedom and courage to become the independent thinker and contributor that she or he was meant to be.