22/09/2026
For the children in Emu Room at Gowrie NSW Newstead, a walk to the local park became much more than an excursion. It was an opportunity to participate in their community, follow their curiosity and see themselves as capable citizens.
Along the way, children noticed dogs, ducks, magpies, cockatoos, daffodils and even a Bunya tree, connecting what they saw with experiences from home and their own community.
At the park, they practised road safety, communicated what they noticed, explored the bird enclosure and confidently shared their ideas with educators. Back at the centre, pinecones collected along the way became reminders of the experience and sparked further exploration.
What stood out was the confidence and security children carried with them beyond the centre gates. Strong Primary Educator Relationships gave them a secure base to explore, while their voices, ideas and curiosity shaped where the learning went.
Learning with Community means creating opportunities for children to participate in the world around them, not simply learn about it. Sometimes, it starts with stepping beyond the gate.
