Buchan ECDC Bush Kinder
The Buchan Early Childhood Development Centre is auspiced by UnitingCare Gippsland and managed by a local volunteer committee. We are a small, rural, multi aged childcare centre where childcare and funded kindergarten are integrated in order for us to be sustainable. Our remote community in East Gippsland is surrounded by beautiful bush and nature.
Our Bush Kinder Program takes place at two bush kinder sites, ‘Bark site’ or ‘River site’ as named by our children. Both sites are located in the Buchan Caves Reserve, managed by Parks Victoria. We spend one three hour session each week at either of these sites.
The ‘River’ site is very beautiful and has lots to offer, from climbing trees to a shallow river bed and massive plane and oak trees. The ’Bark’ Bush Kinder site, which is a 10 minute walk from the ‘River site’, provides many different learning experiences including a dry river bed, bush area, sticks, large rocks to climb, and also has a shelter available. Both sites are abundant with wildlife such as kangaroos, water dragons, birds, bugs, insects etc.
Parent drop off their children at the ‘River site’ and pick up their children at either site. We provide full wet weather gear and use a bucket toilet at both sites.
The children spend the three hours free to explore and discover their natural environment, expanding their imagination whilst becoming more in tune with and connected to nature, each other and themselves.
Bush Kinder is now a valuable extension to our program and has enriched the learning experience for all children and staff.
Our Bush Kinder Program takes place at two bush kinder sites, ‘Bark site’ or ‘River site’ as named by our children. Both sites are located in the Buchan Caves Reserve, managed by Parks Victoria. We spend one three hour session each week at either of these sites.
The ‘River’ site is very beautiful and has lots to offer, from climbing trees to a shallow river bed and massive plane and oak trees. The ’Bark’ Bush Kinder site, which is a 10 minute walk from the ‘River site’, provides many different learning experiences including a dry river bed, bush area, sticks, large rocks to climb, and also has a shelter available. Both sites are abundant with wildlife such as kangaroos, water dragons, birds, bugs, insects etc.
Parent drop off their children at the ‘River site’ and pick up their children at either site. We provide full wet weather gear and use a bucket toilet at both sites.
The children spend the three hours free to explore and discover their natural environment, expanding their imagination whilst becoming more in tune with and connected to nature, each other and themselves.
Bush Kinder is now a valuable extension to our program and has enriched the learning experience for all children and staff.