For many families, the transition from preschool to kindergarten brings a mix of excitement and uncertainty. It is a significant milestone in a child’s life, and at Ambrose Early Learning, this transition is viewed not as a single event but as a journey that begins well before a child’s first day of school.
Central to this journey is Ambrose Foundations, a pre-kindergarten program for children aged three to five years, delivered by all Ambrose Early Learning services. Grounded in the Early Years Learning Framework, this program is designed to prepare children for the opportunities and challenges of kindergarten and beyond. Rather than focusing on a traditional “school readiness” checklist, it nurtures children as curious learners, resilient problem-solvers and active participants in their communities.
Through a combination of intentional play-based learning, inquiry, investigation and planned learning, children develop the social, emotional and cognitive foundations that support lifelong learning. Opportunities to engage in language and literacy, early mathematical thinking, creative arts, movement, collaboration, social and emotional development, faith and spiritual wellbeing encourages children to explore their interests, build confidence and discover their potential.
For educators, some of the most valuable learning occurs through intentional, real-world experiences.
“Through our Biggest Morning Tea Bake Sale, children explored cooking, money, literacy and communication in a real-world context,” said Temika Yendun, Director, Ambrose Early Learning Our Lady Queen of Peace, Greystanes.
“From measuring ingredients and preparing treats to serving families and creating thank-you cards, they developed confidence, teamwork, numeracy and literacy skills, while also gaining an understanding of giving back to their community.”
Faith plays a meaningful role in helping children understand the world around them. Image: Supplied
A unique aspect of the Ambrose experience is the strong connection between its Early Learning services and co-located Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese (CSPD) primary schools. Being part of a broader school community allows children to become familiar with their future learning environment well before they begin kindergarten. Through regular visits and shared experiences, children develop a sense of confidence and belonging that supports a successful transition to school.
Recently, children from Ambrose Early Learning Santa Sophia took the opportunity during the school holidays to explore the school grounds. They visited classrooms, the chapel, performance hall, memorial garden and canteen, while also becoming familiar with everyday features such as bag hooks and name tags. These experiences help children build confidence, spark curiosity and form connections with the community they will soon join as kindergarten students.
However, readiness for school is about more than becoming familiar with a new environment. It is also about helping children develop a strong sense of identity and belonging.
This sits at the heart of a Catholic approach to education, where every child is recognised as a unique creation of God, deserving of dignity, love and care. As children prepare for kindergarten, educators intentionally nurture values such as kindness, gratitude, encouragement, respect, care and compassion through everyday interactions and relationships.
Faith also plays a meaningful role in helping children understand the world around them. Through prayer, reflection, storytelling and discussion, children are encouraged to recognise God’s presence in everyday life and explore values that foster positive relationships.
“During some of our Scripture learning experiences, the children explore stories about love and then share what love means to them,” said Natalie Bugelli, Director, Ambrose Early Learning Holy Family, Emerton.
“Their responses often include being kind to friends, helping their families, sharing with others and making people feel cared for. These discussions help children understand that love can be shown through the simple actions we take every day.”
As the end of the year approaches, the focus at Ambrose Early Learning is not simply on preparing children for their first day of school, but on nurturing the skills, values and confidence that will support them throughout life. Through Ambrose Foundations, children are encouraged to embrace new experiences with curiosity, resilience and faith knowing they are valued, supported and prepared for the journey ahead. It is where learning begins, and where every child belongs.
Find out more about Ambrose Early Learning at www.ambrose.org.au
This article was originally published in the 2026 Season of Creation| Spring edition of the Catholic Outlook Magazine. You can read it online here or pick up a copy in your local parish.
