Paeroa Early Learning Centre

Paeroa Early Learning Centre is a small mixed aged centre based on the outskirts of Paeroa township. It is part of the Hauraki District which means that the majority of our families are from farming and rural backgrounds.

Our philosophy

We believe that tāmariki are unique individuals and recognize each child has their own unique strengths, skills, and abilities to be fostered, encouraged, and provided for.

We value the importance of creating a safe environment for tāmariki, as we believe that when tāmariki feel safe and trust that their needs will be met, they are more comfortable to explore their environment. We also place importance on healthy boundaries that support tāmariki in understanding respect for kaupapa and their environment.

We believe that great relationships (whānaungatanga) within the learning community are built on a foundation of trust, honest and open communication, respectful and positive interactions, consistency, and reliability. Communication is an essential ingredient in relationships and we believe it is our role as kaiako to encourage and support each other together in this journey in unity for the benefit of our tāmariki, whᾱnau, and community.

We believe tāmariki should have continuous opportunities to connect, interact with and experience nature and their outside world. It is through these experiences that tāmariki are able to build a sense of responsibility and accountability for a sustainable future, while making sense of their wider world. We support the concept of tuakana teina, a Maori concept of teaching and learning between our younger and older tāmariki, and use these encounters towards self-transformation.