"Learning and teaching should not stand on opposite banks and just watch the river flow by; instead, they should embark together on a journey down the water." Loris Malaguzzi
While our inspirations come from many sources, the educational practices of Reggio Emilia, Italy, have played a major role in shaping our core beliefs on teaching and learning with the vision of creating innovative, global citizens who will thrive in a changing world.
Our Reggio Inspired journey began in 2010 after participating on a study tour to Reggio Emilia. Since then, we have strived to learn, interpret and embed the key principles of Reggio within our school context, completely reshaping our approach to education in New Zealand and teaching the New Zealand curriculum through a Reggio-inspired lense.
History
The Reggio Emilia philosophy was developed after WWII by a group of parents. A small village on the outskirts of Reggio Emilia, left in social and economic ruins after the war, generated some money from the sale of an old war tank, a couple of horses and an abandoned truck left by the Nazis. The men of the village wanted to build a theatre but the women wanted to build a preschool to give their children a new education. The women prevailed. They believed that all children were intelligent and full of potential, regardless of economic background.
A farmer donated the land and the villagers built the first council owned preschool by hand, using the bricks collected from bombed buildings.
A young primary school teacher, named Loris Mulaguzzi, heard of this remarkable community venture and helped the parents run this preschool. He then went on to study psychology and together with the parents, began to develop the Reggio Emilia philosophy to teaching and learning.
Our 8 Inspired Guiding Principles
Hundred Languages
We understand and encourage children's many different ways of seeing, thinking, expressing themselves, and constructing meaning about the world. Their potential is unlimited.
Authenticity
Learning experiences are unique, child centered, and designed based on students' interests and learning needs.
Projects
Projects are authentic, collaborative, and student-led journeys of discovery.
Time
We have a positive relationship with time and go with the flow of our students. Our students dictate time.
Image of Children
We view all our akonga (children) at Bromley as vibrant, curious, strong, clever, and with huge potential.
Community Partnerships
We understand the role strong relationships play between students, staff, whanau and our wider community in helping our akonga feel a strong sense of belonging.
Space
We try to create attractive, flexible learning environments that promote curiosity, creativity and self-discovery.
Visible Learning
We are continually curious about our students; what they are thinking, their ideas, and their many ways of knowing. Students' voice and learning journeys are documented and shared in many different ways.
Connect with us!
We offer tailor-made workshops for educators who would like to know more. So get in touch. We'd love to hear from you!
Bromley School, 33 Keighleys Road, Bromley, Christchurch. Phone 03-389 7716
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