Our Learning
Our Learning
Early Education Program (3 & 4 year old)
The Early Education Program at Furlong Park provides a free, child-focused and play-based educational program for children aged 3–4 years who have a permanent, bilateral hearing loss.
The program is delivered in both spoken English and Auslan (Australian Sign Language). Our aim is to support each child’s development, with a strong emphasis on early language acquisition, communication, and social interaction.
We use the Victorian Early Years Learning and Development Framework (VEYLDF) to guide and shape our program. The VEYLDF recognises that parents are a child’s first and most important teachers, and our staff work in close partnership with families to ensure every child has the opportunity to grow, learn and reach their full potential.
Learning Outcomes
The program is structured around the five VEYLDF Learning Outcomes:
- Identity – Children have a strong sense of identity
- Wellbeing – Children have a strong sense of wellbeing
- Community – Children are connected with and contribute to their world
- Learning – Children are confident and involved learners
- Communication – Children are effective communicators
Program Structure
- 3-Year-Old Caterpillar Program: Monday and Tuesday
- 4-Year-Old Butterfly Program: Thursday and Friday
Families may choose to have their child attend only Furlong Park, or combine our Early Education Program with their local mainstream kindergarten or childcare service. This allows children to benefit from targeted bilingual support while still engaging with their local community.
Pathways After the Early Education Program
When children finish the program, they transition to the educational setting that best meets their needs.
- Most children continue into the primary school at Furlong Park, ensuring strong continuity of language, communication and learning support.
- Other children move on to their local mainstream school, and some transition to a specialist school that aligns with their individual learning needs.
Our team supports families throughout the transition process to ensure every child enters the next stage of their learning with confidence.
