We value each child individually, their unique soul, character, free spirit, culture and sense of wonder.
Our centre
Our centre has strong relationships between tamariki and kaiako, which are based on the values of Ako as well the Reggio Emilia approach, where teachers and children are co-researchers and co-constructors in the learning process. The ratio of teachers to children as well as the structure of the day, promotes meaningful interactions between the teachers and children.
Our mixed age centre promotes tuakana teina relationships, where children learn from each other and develop a strong sense of belonging, through intentional teaching and learning.
Our teachers have created a learning environment that weaves bicultural values into the programme and follows the Tikanga protocol. We have a “Treaty of Daystar” created collaboratively by the kaiako and tamariki. Our curriculum also includes values from the Fruits of the Spirit, that we regularly practice at the centre: Love, Kindness, Gentleness, Self Control, Peace, Patience, Faithfulness, Joy, Goodness.
Our Discovery Programme
During this time we encourage and empower children to think, problem-solve, question, investigate, explore and progress emotionally, socially, cognitively and physically. Our programme includes Morning and Afternoon discoveries, which focus on small group learning. Morning Discoveries is for younger children and focuses on building their skills through a variety of tactile and sensory learning experiences.
Afternoon Discoveries is also known as our Transition to School Programme and is for older children. Tamariki are supported in developing skills, such as: letter and number recognition, literacy, problem-solving and decision making, as well as being able to follow instructions and remain focused for an extended period of time. Children are encouraged to question and challenge one another, to share opinions and ideas, and take on other’s points of view. We do this through learning experiences, including baking, researching our current investigation, topic of interest, exploring artistic expressions, and taking an active part in games and small group discussions.
