Philosophy / General Information

PHILOSOPHY / GENERAL INFORMATION

St. Marys Outside School Hours Care is a school based centre, subsidised by the Commonwealth and NT Governments. St. Marys OSHC is a non-profit organisation working within the local council and NT & Commonwealth statutes.

St. Mary’s Outside School Hours Care is currently licensed to provide care for:

  • After School Care – 75 children
  • Before School Care – 75 children
  • Vacation Care – 75 children

All staff qualifications and child/staff ratios are in accordance with or better than the Australian Children’s Education and Care Quality Authority (ACECQA) guidelines and minimum requirements. Children are actively supervised by educators at all times to ensure that they are protected from harm. The ratio of supervision is as follows:

At the service 1 staff for every 15 children

On excursions 1 staff for every 10 children

The management of St Mary’s OSHC supports in-service professional development for all members of staff and believes that it should continue throughout each staff member’s career. All staff members hold current OCHRE (Working with Children Card). Photos of staff are displayed on the board, near the entrance of the OSHC room so that you are aware of who is caring for your child.

St. Mary’s OSHC has an extensive Policy and Procedure manual which reflects the Philosophy and Mission statements of our service. This manual is a large document, which is made available to families in the centre. For easy referencing a copy is kept on the sign in/out desk.

Philosophy

At St Mary’s Outside School Hours Care,

We value each child’s as an individual, we support these children to help them flourish through their journey at OSHC. We encourage them to have agency throughout their time at OSHC.

We believe that all children have the right to feel safe and secure.

We believe in having an honest and trusting relationship with the children in order for them to have a sense of belonging at OSHC. We treat each other with respect.

We encourage children to achieve their full potential, to try their best, and to always try something new and exciting.

We aim to create a welcoming atmosphere where families from all cultures and backgrounds feel as if they belong, knowing that their children are in a safe and caring space.

Children engage in a variety of activities that provide for differing interests, needs and skills of the children.

We, as educators want the children in our care to develop a sense of security, self-esteem, confidence and teamwork while having the most fun possible.

St Mary’s Catholic Primary School OSHC Service

Address Lindsay Street, Darwin City, NT 0801
Mail GPO Box 2413, Darwin, NT 0801
Phone (08) 8981 9796
OSHC Direct line    (08) 8981 6107
Email oshc.sm@nt.catholic.edu.au
Web site    www.stmarysnt.catholic.edu.au