At Ashton’s Place Immersive Learners (APIL), we believe in a holistic approach to early childhood education and care that fosters collaboration, communication, and meaningful participation. Central to our programming philosophy is the reciprocity approach, which emphasises the importance of building strong relationships between educators, children, and families. Through open dialogue and mutual respect, we create a supportive community where everyone’s contributions are valued. By involving families in the learning process, we gain valuable insights into each child’s unique strengths, interests, and needs, allowing us to tailor our programmes to better suit their individual characteristics. This collaborative environment supports children’s exploration, creativity, and problem-solving skills, nurturing their curiosity, confidence, and sense of identity.

Meaningful participation is at the heart of our approach, recognising children as active participants in their own learning journey. By viewing children as researchers and influencers, we empower them to explore, discover, and contribute to their learning experiences. Celebrating meaningful participation as a core value underscores the importance of listening to children’s voices, honouring their contributions, and valuing their agency in decision-making processes. This commitment to meaningful participation creates a culture of respect, collaboration, and co-creation, where everyone’s perspectives and experiences are valued and respected.

Within our Village Co-Op, children are invited to explore, experiment, and create with a diverse array of carefully curated materials. Inspired by the concept of a village, this collection of loose parts ignites curiosity and imagination, hinting at the boundless opportunities for exploration that lie ahead. Through immersive learning experiences at Ashton’s Place, we foster a sense of belonging, empowerment, and engagement, setting the stage for transformative learning experiences that promote holistic development, creativity, and lifelong learning for all children and families.