In the earliest years of life, children’s brains develop faster than at any other time. The experiences children have between the ages of three and five shape the way they learn, think, and relate to others for decades to come. Choosing the right early learning environment is one of the most significant decisions families will make.
In 2026, Walford Anglican School for Girls is thrilled to welcome Alison Blake as the new Director of the Early Learning Centre. With more than 25 years of experience in early childhood education in Australia and the UK, she brings deep expertise and passion for the very best in early learning practice and cognitive development.
At Walford, caring educators facilitate intentional play and inquiry, helping children build the confidence to ask questions, solve problems and express themselves, all within an environment where every child is known, valued and feels a genuine sense of belonging.
“I’m constantly challenged and inspired by the educational philosophy and research of the Reggio Emilia Approach from Northern Italy, which views children as capable and competent, curious and rich in potential,” Alison said. “I’ve been fortunate to participate in International Study Groups for Reggio Emilia and I’m currently the local convenor for the Adelaide Reggio Network Group.”
Every element of the Walford ELC is carefully designed to spark wonder and engagement.
Walford’s ELC welcomes girls and boys, aged three and four, into a warm, nurturing space designed to inspire curiosity, build resilience, and foster a lifelong love of learning through play-based experiences. The warmth and sense of calm families feel when entering the ELC is evident from each child’s first visit.
At the heart of Walford’s approach is the belief that the learning environment itself acts as a ‘third teacher’. Every element of the ELC is carefully designed to spark wonder and engagement. Purpose-built play stations include a welcoming home corner, construction areas, art stations, nature play areas, light boxes, sandpits, vegetable gardens, cubbies, climbing equipment, and a mud kitchen. Small world play scenes and stories are responsive to children’s needs and interests, offering creativity, language skills, connection and enjoyment, shaped by teacher observations and conversations with the children. Educators support each child individually, always considering the zone of proximal development and adjusting the environment accordingly.
“Our playgroup on Friday mornings is a weekly highlight, with babies, toddlers, parents and caregivers gathering and enjoying our learning space,” Alison said.
The benefits of being part of an ELC to Year 12 school also mean ELC students have access to specialist-led experiences, including music lessons with a Music teacher and our Gross Motor Skills Program with an experienced Physical Education teacher. Research shows that high-quality preschool programs enhance children’s language, self-regulation, social-emotional skills, and cognitive development.
Partnerships with families are central to Walford’s philosophy. Educators collaborate closely with parents, sharing learning documentation and maintaining routines that help children feel secure. Families are welcomed as active participants, whether through regular conversations or shared celebrations.
“The sense of connection within the Walford community is amazing,” Alison said. “From visiting the chickens in the Junior School to welcoming ‘Chef Anthoney’ each day, our young children are very much valued as part of the wider School community.”
A unique offering is the flexibility to adjust attendance during school holidays and provide holiday care for older siblings.
If you are considering early learning options for your child, Walford invites you to discover how their Early Learning Centre can make a lasting difference.
Playgroup sessions are free and run every Friday during term time, from 9.00am to 10.15am.
Book today:
walford.sa.edu.au/playgroup-registration
To find out more or book a tour:
admissions@walford.asn.au
walford.sa.edu.au/early-learning-centre
walford.sa.edu.au/book-a-tour
Walford Anglican School for Girls
316 Unley Road, Hyde Park, SA 5061
8272 6555
walford.sa.edu.au
