Barnardos Early Learning Centre Ōtara

Ōtara Early Learning Centre is a diverse, stimulating and welcoming environment where your child will develop as a happy and confident learner.

• One of our favourite things to do is visit the native bush nearby where we collect pine cones and leaves and see what creepy crawlies we can find hiding under old logs.
• Indoors we have plenty of play based resources and experiences that allow our children's curiosities to develop while they learn and discover at their own pace.
• Parents and whānau are always welcome at our centre, our open door policy means you can come in for a cup of tea or get involved with your child’s learning at any time.

Convenience

Our aim is to create the best conditions for your child's learning, wellbeing and care. We also know how important it is to give you the convenience you need and reassurance that your child is in safe hands. Our central location, loving team and tailored environment are all waiting to be discovered by your whānau.

Full and part day options available, and Storypark - our online parent communication tool, are just some of the ways we try to make things a little easier for parents. Local excursions, delicious meals and fun activities are just the beginning when it comes to being the best we can be for your child. 

Staff who nurture and inspire

Our qualified and experienced teachers are committed to caring for and nurturing your child. They build a strong connection with each child throughout their early learning journey and go out of their way to ensure every child feels supported and their unique needs are met. 

Our teachers create positive opportunities for your child to develop physically, mentally and emotionally. They help guide your child as they navigate new friendships, master new skills and build independence and resilience to get ready for school and lay the foundations for lifelong learning.

Engaging environment

Our happy and nurturing environment will inspire, stimulate and empower your child to learn in their own unique way. The outdoor spaces challenge and excite the imagination, while our spacious and light filled indoor areas offer room for reading, rest, and engaging indoor learning experiences. Our children love painting, waiata and the many natural play areas they have to discover.

Connecting with the outdoors

We only know who we are, by knowing where we come from. That's why building a strong connection with nature and our local community is so important. We believe it helps your child develop a sense of belonging and identity and positively influences their learning experiences.

We're so lucky to have so many wonderful options on our doorstep here in Otara. We grow our own vegetable and herbs in our garden and go on local community excursions. We go for regular bushwalks and often visit the new entrant class and playground of Sir Edmund Hilary Collegiate Otara Junior School. 

Nutrition and wellbeing

We strive to provide nutritious and delicious meals and snacks to support physical and mental development. We encourage healthy eating habits and offer a balanced menu to keep your child well fueled throughout the day. The children also love being involved and we use the vegetables and herbs we grow, in our meals.

Your child will enjoy:

• Breakfast 
• Morning snack
• Lunch
• Afternoon snack

To encourage learning we have 'lunchbox Friday' where children do bring in their own lunchbox with food from home.

Our centre is nut free and we're happy to cater for any allergy or other dietary requirements as required.