Typically responds within
A couple of days
Our kindergarten philosophy: Our children are nurtured, and their learning is supported and extended in a natural environment.
Children’s interests are the starting point to learning. We have a strong focus on our natural environment which is continually evolving. Exploration and discovery are encouraged as children try new things – their own way and in their own time. This is extended by nga tamariki ngahere, the bush programme we run for the oldest children weekly.
We build strong relationships with our children and their families and support the children to gain confidence over time and to develop a ‘can do’ attitude. Our team ethos is: “If you go home clean – you haven’t had a good day.” We have a real sense of family and community where we all support each other, young and old and all are welcome.
Our children are free to follow their interests within a well-resourced environment. There are opportunities to develop physical and fine motor skills and literacy and numeracy skills. Children can experiment with materials such as paint, clay, inks and dye. We offer ephemeral art opportunities, collage, carpentry, stone carving, puppetry, music and dance, imaginary play and drama.
Supporting children to develop social competencies and to view themselves as confident and competent underpins everything we do.
Our bush programme for the oldest ten children supports collaboration, responsibility, leadership skills and independence. The environment is the teacher and the children determine their own learning. Our oldest children also visit the library bus fortnightly and visit Birchville School’s library regularly.
A positive transition to primary school is important for children’s ongoing learning and we support children and their families throughout this process.
