Earlier this year, a cohort of fifteen team members from Green Leaves Early Learning across Australia attended the inaugural pedagogical Green Leaves Study Tour to New Zealand, which is a component of Green Leaves’ enriched professional growth series known as the National Learning, Research and Development Project (NLRDP).
As part of Green Leaves’ commitment to enriching learning, the NLRDP is created with our Educators and children in mind.
The study tour was designed to be an immersive experience. Green Leaves partnered with KG Learning, changemakers in pedagogical practices of early childhood education. Over a period of five days, the cohort from Green Leaves had the opportunity to experience New Zealand’s bi-cultural curriculum, Te Whariki, and its influence throughout pedagogy and practice, workshops, and visits to early learning services in Wellington.
There were countless highlights and moments of “ah-hah!”, and not to mention shared camaraderie and awe beyond the academic learning experiences.
For Early Childhood Teacher, Teagan, the most significant aspect of the trip was the opportunity to connect with her fellow Educators from across Australia.
“The meaningful dialogues and exchanges of ideas that occurred between the formal learning sessions became the focal point of my experience. I believe that these connections will extend beyond the study tour,” said Teagan.
Teagan is most excited about incorporating the outdoors into in-centre experiences, “The New Zealand learning context showed me the significance of incorporating the outdoors into education.
I’m motivated to organise more nature-focused excursions, including nature walks, to deepen children’s connection with the natural world which will enhance the overall learning experience for the children and promote a greater appreciation for nature.”
Green Leaves Educators fully immersed in a though-provoking session at Child Space.
Collectively, the team agreed that the things that surprised them most was the depth of emotions that emerged, and the genuine connections made and the relationships that unfolded within a group of people who share equal enthusiasm in their commitment to be the best in class when it comes to delivering exceptional early childhood education.
Bonding over learning a new musical instrument.
Lead Educator, Michelle, said that the visits to the different Child Space Early Learning Centres and Kindergarten enabled her to visualise the learnings from the study tour.
“I’ve enjoyed experiencing the culture, the people, the teachers and their passion for the profession that is reflected through different learning environments and learning documents prepared. I would love for my team to experience it too!”, said Michelle.
“Love and warmth…” were just one of the many sentiments felt during the team’s visit to Child Space
Attending alongside the cohort of Educators were Green Leaves National Operations Manager, Kirsten Berry, and National Learning, Research and Development Project Partner, Dr Karen Grubb, who facilitated and supported the group.
Not only did their presence and guidance enhance the depth of discussions, but it also empowered the cohort to translate their learnings into practice and spark meaningful conversations.
During the study tour, Ms Berry emphasised the importance of collaboration and ongoing professional development being a collective journey, irrespective of individual roles.
While Dr. Karen’s insights into current educational trends, research methodologies, and developmental strategies provided a valuable framework for understanding and contextualising the concepts encountered during the study tour.
Being an immersive experience, the learnings were truly embraced and struck a chord deep in the hearts of our team of nurturers who are excited to incorporate the valuable insights to their centres.
We have captured some key moments from this wonderful and inspiring experience. See it for yourself as you take a moment to view our highlights reel.
