Childcare options in Edgecumbe

Edgecumbe Kindergarten

Central Kids Edgecumbe is situated at the heart of the Rangatiki plains. We embrace current education theory and believe that building strong reciprocal relationships between tamariki, their whānau and teachers is the key to successful kindergarten learning.

We view all tamariki as competent, confident, capable and unique learners and encourage them to become problem solvers, risk takers and innovative thinkers. We have a clear focus on inclusion and celebrate diversity in age, ability and culture. With this in mind we provide flexibility in our enrolment system. We work with you to ensure that we meet you and your tamariki’s current needs in regards to the hours that you require.

Our ‘secret garden’ is a quiet place where tamariki can spend time in small groups learning about sustainability and caring for our outdoor environment. This learning will help support your tamariki to develop understanding around kaitiakitanga and their responsibility as guardians of their wider environment in the future.

We welcome you to visit our kindergarten anytime.

Te Kōhanga Reo

The kōhanga reo movement is a unique initiative based on total immersion in Māori language and values with the aim of passing on Māori culture to future generations.

Kōhanga reo emphasise the revitalisation of the culture through te reo Māori and are dependent on the active participation of the whole whānau. The kaupapa of kōhanga reo aims to strengthen whānau capabilities in cultural, social, economic, spiritual and political matters. Education, health and wellbeing are inherent within all aspects of the kaupapa. The prime focus is the whānau – its collective development, growth, accountability and wellbeing set within a Māori cultural context.

Kōhanga reo do not regard tamariki in isolation, but as important members of the whānau. The kōhanga reo philosophy is that tamariki will benefit when whānau successfully operate according to the kaupapa. Tamariki are an integral part of whānau development.

The following key goals are the foundation of te kōhanga reo kaupapa established in 1982:

• total immersion in te reo Māori me ōna tikanga in daily operations
• whānau decision-making, management and responsibility
• accountability
• health and wellbeing of mokopuna and whānau.

The key goals of te kōhanga reo assure that there will be:

• security in te reo Māori
• a supportive, caring environment for mokopuna
• whānau (collective) sharing of responsibilities, knowledge and expertise
• greater respect and appreciation of each other.