Lighthouse Early Learning Celebrates First Birthday & Announces Exciting New Opportunities for Families
By Julian Schubert, Marketing & Communications Manager
Lighthouse Early Learning at Encounter Lutheran College has officially turned one! To mark this joyful milestone, children, families, and staff came together on Friday, 30 May for a lively celebration filled with laughter, community spirit, and reflection on a successful first year.
This special anniversary also coincides with the 25th anniversary of Encounter Lutheran College, making 2025 a particularly memorable year for the College community.
Vanessa Harvie, Director of Early Learning, expressed her excitement at the dual celebration:
“It’s been a truly heartwarming first year. Our nurturing, play-based environment fosters curiosity, creativity, and confidence, providing a strong foundation for school readiness. With a focus on child-centred learning, we support young learners on their journey through preschool and beyond at Encounter Lutheran College. Join us and give your child the best start in a warm, engaging setting designed for growth and discovery.”
Now Welcoming Enrolments for 3-Year-Olds
Lighthouse Early Learning is currently accepting enrolments for children aged three to five years. With growing interest from local families, the Centre continues to build on its commitment to high-quality early childhood education in a purpose-built setting.
Introducing Mid-Year Intakes: Seamless Transition to Foundation (Reception)
In response to the evolving needs of families, Encounter Lutheran College is proud to offer mid-year intakes into Lighthouse Early Learning. This new initiative provides a flexible and developmentally appropriate entry point for children preparing to transition into the College’s Foundation (Reception) Program the following year.
Tori Weiss, Head of Junior School, highlights the importance of this option for families:
“Mid-year entry allows children who are ready to begin their school journey the opportunity to do so in a nurturing, play-based environment. Located within Early Learning, this experience supports a smooth and confident transition into Foundation. It also enables families to make choices that best suit their child’s individual readiness and circumstances. Our friendly staff are always here to support you.”
Key Features of the Foundation Transition Program:
- Play-Based Learning that develops foundational skills and confidence
- Strong Wellbeing Focus through programs like Kimochis and Zones of Regulation
- Buddy Program to connect with older students and foster belonging
- Bush School Participation for outdoor, nature-based learning
- Smooth Transition into full-time schooling at Encounter
Book a Small Group Director’s Tour
Families are warmly invited to explore the Lighthouse Early Learning Centre through a 60-minute small group Director’s Tour. These personalised visits offer a chance to explore the Centre’s stunning nature play areas, discover the Encounter philosophy—Inspire, Create, Belong—and gain valuable insights into the Early Learning and Foundation Transition programs.
Upcoming Tour Dates:
- Friday, 27 June, 9.00am
- Friday, 4 July, 9.00am
- Friday, 1 August, 9.00am
Bookings are essential. Come and experience the warmth, innovation, and excellence of Lighthouse Early Learning at Encounter Lutheran College.
Encounter Lutheran College acknowledges the Ramindjeri people of the Ngarrindjeri Country as the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we live, work and learn. We pay our respects to Elders past, present and emerging.
Contact Encounter Lutheran College