Shirley Road Pre-school Inquiry Visit: Enhancing Inclusion and engagement by Supporting Children's Sensory and Regulation Needs.

Come and visit Gowrie Shirley Road Preschool located in Crows Nest. Centre Director Stefanie Overton will share how they apply a sensory lens to support children’s learning and engagement. “When we understand a child’s sensory profile, we can then plan a program that supports their inclusion and provides opportunities for them to thrive.

Are you passionate about creating inclusive and responsive learning environments for children? Dive into the world of sensory processing and its profound impact on learning and engagement at Gowrie Shirley Road Preschool. Under the guidance of Centre Director Stefanie Overton, this immersive, hands-on inquiry visit will help you unlock the potential of sensory-rich programming to support children of all abilities.

Why Attend?

This is more than just a professional learning session—it's an opportunity to engage deeply with innovative approaches to early childhood education. You’ll walk away with practical strategies to enhance your practice, insights into understanding and supporting sensory profiles, and valuable connections with fellow educators.

During this event, you'll:

  • Explore Sensory Processing: Understand how sensory profiles affect learning, behaviour, and engagement in early childhood settings.
  • Enhance Your Curriculum: Learn to design and implement sensory-rich activities like messy play, heavy work, and movement breaks that support children's development.
  • Collaborate and Network: Share documentation, ideas, and experiences with other educators in a supportive environment.
  • Engage with Theory and Practice: Gain a deeper understanding of the theoretical framework that underpins Shirley Road's philosophy, followed by hands-on exploration of sensory experiences.

Agenda:

  • 9:30-10:00 | Centre Tour: Get a behind-the-scenes look at the thoughtfully designed learning spaces and environments.
  • 10:00-11:30 | Presentation: Stefanie Overton will share how understanding sensory profiles can lead to more effective programming, fostering inclusion and supporting each child's unique needs.
  • 11:30-12:30 | Sensory Exploration: Participate in sensory-rich activities and take away practical strategies to implement in your own setting.

Enjoy a light morning tea while engaging in conversation with the Shirley Road team, who will share their story through documentation and interactive discussions. Plus, take advantage of a Q&A session to delve deeper into any questions you may have.


Who Should Attend?

This event is designed for early childhood teachers and educators who are looking to enrich their practice and develop new tools for creating inclusive, sensory-informed programs.

Benefits of Attending:

  • Gain practical tools and strategies for creating sensory-rich learning environments.
  • Understand sensory profiles and how to use them to support individual children.
  • Network with like-minded professionals and share documentation and experiences.

Additional Information:

  • Location: Cnr of Shirley Rd and Nicholson St, Crows Nest
  • Parking: Street parking is available, with off-street paid parking close by.
  • Light Refreshments Provided: Enjoy a complimentary morning tea during the session.

Register now and take a step toward creating more inclusive, responsive learning experiences for the children in your care!

  • No future dates available.

About the presenters

  • Stef Overton - Bio image arlo
    Stefanie Overton
    Stefanie has been teaching and learning for over 20 years.  She has been an educator, educational leader, and centre director in both long day care settings and preschool. She is extremely passionate about supporting the inclusion of neuro diverse learners and is of course a fierce advocate for play.