Our Programmes
We provide an in-depth learning programme based on the New Zealand Early Childhood Curriculum, Te Whāriki.
We aim to develop programmes to meet children’s individual needs that
Include both planned and child initiated learning experiences which
allow for spontaneous learning outcomes. We endeavour to create
opportunities for children to develop holistically which means
children’s intellectual, social, cultural, physical, emotional, and
spiritual learning is interwoven across all experiences.
A core
focus of our programme is to foster children’s home languages and
cultural values. We support and empower children to learn and practice
their home languages by using basic words, songs, stories and some games
in different languages. We strive to achieve this through responsive
and reciprocal relationships with parents/families and community. We
encourage parents to be an integral part of their children’s learning
about cultural values & beliefs, customs and traditions.
Incorporating
Te Reo and all other cultural beliefs and values are important to our
learning community. We demonstrate this through basic words, sentences,
Karakia, games, our Tikamga practices and our customs, traditions and
ways of doing things. Our learning environment is rich in cultural
learning and understanding, it is all respected as a living and relevant
part of our past, present and furture and upholds the respect we have
of the Treaty Of Waitangi and the important role it plays in Early
Childhood Education.
We believe
infants need to be cared for with deep respect by people in their lives
who understand the unique development and learning occuring for each
child. We strive towards respecting for Infants' confidence and
competence. This means considering them to be equal, capable of problem
solving and decision making, by allowing them to develop and explore at
their own pace.
We have a ‘Fabulous Fours’
programme for 4-5 year old children; which focuses mainly on literacy
and numeracy for smooth transition to school. Our programme is
comprehensive, skill-based and designed to prepare children for their
first year and on-going success in school. This programme is aimed at
meeting children’s individual needs and designed to give children
opportunities to explore, question, communicate and create in a fun
& supportive environment.
We aim to
create a natural learning environment both indoors and outdoors that is
stimulating, educational and safe. We set up resources and equipment in a
purposeful and provocative way to foster children’s sense of wonder,
imagination, curiosity and inquiry. Natural environment provides unique
hands-on experiences for children while they are learning many maths and
science concepts. Using natural materials gives young children an
opportunity to understand how things work in the living, physical world,
which in turn can lead to a greater respect for the environment.
We have
created experiences that involve all the senses-taste, touch, sight,
hearing and smell-in an enriched environment to stimulate curiosity and
assist in brain development. Children are also encouraged to express
themselves creatively, thereby strengthening their intellect and
building social skills.
More
detailed information about our programme can be found throughout the
centre, but please do not hesitate to ask teachers or discuss with the
manager if you have any questions.