Our Learning Philosophy
At PINES we believe that children learn best when they are intrinsically motivated and inspired by their desire to explore, create and connect. Our program is designed with a focus on the child as a whole and as part of a vibrant learning community where the child, educator and parent are all partners on the education journey. Our learning environment is both a reflection of the children in our classroom and a source of inspiration for them. It is rich, flexible and respectful as well as aesthetically pleasing and calming. In a small group setting, we as educators are able to develop close relationships with each child allowing us to guide their process of discovery collaboratively. Children learn best when their well-being is cared for and therefore it is our priority to create a space that is nurturing and uplifting while using positive guidance strategies to facilitate and manage behaviors and classroom situations.
Program Overarching Themes
Our program is designed with a focus on Intercultural, Place-based learning and so as part of our curriculum we will be exploring local cultures, landscapes, environments and experiences as well as incorporating relevant cultures of the families and children as part of valuing the unique identity every individual student brings forth with them. The learning cycles will focus on language and culture, arts, sciences and nature learning. The BC schooling curriculum will also be used as a guide when designing learning materials and activities.
What is Blended Learning?
Blended learning is a model that allows families and educators to work collaboratively on facilitating their own learning communities. In this model, students spend time learning both in-person, alongside their peers and educators as well as at home with their parents. In-person learning will happen at PINES where we will explore different learning cycles 4 days of the week as part of a small multi-age student group.
Students will follow the B.C curriculum with the guidance of their teacher and their parents as part of a learning plan designed to meet their unique learning needs. Parents will also plan activities for their children to do that meet their child’s interests and learning outcomes and will share those activities with the program teacher on a regular basis.
