Strathmore Park Kindergarten

As Strathmore is one of the sunniest suburbs in Wellington we are lucky to have an environment that is almost always (well… usually) bathed in sunshine.  

Our children enjoy the variety of challenges that its outdoor area promotes for learning, including a HUGE sandpit on one side and a large grassy, sloped playground on the other equipped with an ever-popular fire engine. Our new indoor/outdoor space allows for more options in bad weather.  

Our kindergarten is a richly diverse kindergarten, and our team acknowledges this as an important aspect of our programme. We endeavour to nurture and celebrate the variety of home languages, customs and traditions of all cultures that are represented. We have a deep connection with our community – particularly with several generations of our families attending over the years.  

We see open communication and strong partnerships with whanau as the foundation for quality learning experiences for our children. Parent aspirations are a vital consideration as we plan for children’s learning. 

Our teachers provide and nurture a strong sense of Manaakitanga (warmth and friendliness) in our kindergarten so that quality outcomes for children’s learning occur. We also value the Te Ao Maori concept of tuakana/teina where all children are supported and encouraged to be leaders/role models and share their expertise.  

Our programme is based around holistic learning and development through play and other meaningful experiences, activities, and events. We notice, recognise, and respond to children’s interests, needs and strengths as they emerge through their play and interactions with people, places and things.   

We have mealtimes at around 11.30 am where children come to a kai mat to eat their lunch if they are hungry. It is also a quiet time when children can enjoy a rest and share some stories.   

We have regular visits from the librarian, district nurses, Wellington Aquatics, and visits to and from local schools, preschools, and kindergartens.   

We have 10–15-minute mat-times at the end of each session where the children gather together for waiata/kanikani/korero and to ensure they are collected safely by their whanau.