Out and About • Gowrie Victoria

What is Out and About?

Learning beyond the four walls of the classroom is central to how young children make sense of their world. Community-based experiences support children to build a strong sense of identity and belonging by connecting them to the people, places and cultures around them. Encounters with public transport, local landmarks and natural environments offer authentic, real-world contexts for children to develop skills in observation, communication, problem-solving and risk assessment, learning that is far richer and more meaningful than what can be replicated indoors. In this way, Out and About experiences reflect a play-based, inquiry-driven approach to early childhood education, where curiosity about the real world becomes the foundation for learning.

What this looks like in practiceexploring parks, shops, libraries and transport to build geographical and social awareness of the wider community
noticing seasons and weather changes to develop observation skills and a connection to the natural world
practising road safety, like stopping at kerbs and using crossings, to build independence and risk-awareness
chatting with local shopkeepers, librarians or neighbours to develop communication skills and a sense of belonging
capturing discoveries through photos or drawings to strengthen memory, reflection and language for revisiting learning back at the service
noticing litter and visiting community gardens to build early environmental responsibility and sustainability awareness.

What do children at Gowrie love about Out and About?

I love running up and down those hills.

Rihan

Child

I found an earth worm and rolled down grass.

Luna

Child

I like climbing in the tree bush, it’s in the closer part.

Kirra

Child

We get to go to the school playground and oval.

Octaviah

Child