09/07/2026
The Atelier as an Intentional Learning Space
At Nido Blackburn, we deeply value the Atelier as an intentional learning space, drawing rich inspiration based on the Reggio Emilia approach. Our Kinder teachers have been engaging children in this dedicated space to expand their critical thinking, creativity, imagination, and connection with both each other and the wider community.
Exploring the Nido Blackburn Community Through Clay
Provoked by the questions, “What is a community?” and “What can we see around Nido Blackburn?”, the children in Classroom 4 brainstormed a vibrant mind map. They explored the people and landmarks that define our local area, later using clay to sculpt their ideas. Their representations included the local train station, bus station, sushi shop, flower shop, our Bush Kinder site, and the Blackburn RSL etc.
To support this exploration, our team further transformed the Atelier with open-ended materials and thoughtful learning provocations. We have also made the children’s learning journey more visible by showcasing recent community experiences. These include our Blackburn Primary School visit, Caring for Country sessions during Bush Kinder, a visit from St. Thomas School's Year 6 students, and our recent Pride Month group discussions.
It is wonderful to see the children’s voices evolve from verbal ideas into mind maps, and finally into clay sculptures, meaningfully representing their thinking and making meaning of the world around them.
