Goodstart Early Learning Golden Square

Play is the order of the day of Goodstart Early Learning and the programs at the centre are grounded in a play-based approach. The educators embed teaching and learning into play experiences, helping the children to make sense of the world around them. This is how the children learn about how things work and develop important foundational relationships and skills. 

The primarily child-directed, play-based curriculum ensures that the children are engaged in their learning. They are encouraged to take the lead, developing their negotiation, risk taking, problem solving and social skills. The educators observe the children and help to challenge them by extending their learning and interests.

The educators recognise that every child is unique and that they bring their own needs, interests and strengths with them each day. The program is designed to be flexible to cater to these differing needs, ensuring every child has the opportunity to thrive at Goodstart.

Joanne Russell

Hi name is Joanne and I am the Centre Director at Goodstart Golden Square.

I hold my Bachelors of Early Childhood and Education and I have been the director here at Golden Square since August 2022. I have been with Goodstart for 20 years with majority of those years in a management position.

I have lived in Bendigo for the past 13 years where I live with my husband and two children who are both now in Primary school.

I believe the learning in the early years sets the foundation for each individual child’s learning journey. Access to quality early learning programs with engaging environment lead by the children’s interests, incorporating intentional teaching and adaptable curriculums to meet each individual child’s needs starts that learning foundation.

I am passionate about inclusion and support families in any way I can. I believe in transparency with families and working in collaboration to navigate each child’s needs and development.