Centre philosophy
Our responsibility as educators
We believe that we as educators are responsible for the learning, development and safety of the children, each other and our families. We emphasise open communication, respect, good team work, friendship, professionalism, reliability and fairness. We recognise the differences in our teaching styles and work together for the benefit of the children and their families.
Parents & families
We believe in positive, strong and trusting relationships with the parents and caregivers of our centre, where there is constant and reciprocal communication that respects confidentiality. We believe that parents are the child's first teacher and value your input and feedback in partnership with us, for the benefit of your child.
Culture, faith & environment
We believe that each person has their own culture and belief system which makes us all unique, and will provide an environment whereby we are respectful of these differences. We believe also that the environment should be a safe, happy and welcoming one for everyone who comes here.
How children grow best
We believe children learn and develop in an environment where they are happy and secure and in which they have the opportunity to experience a wide range of developmentally appropriate preschool activities.
We believe children develop confidence and self worth and a positive self image as they learn of their uniqueness and of God's love for them within the framework of basic Christian teachings.
We believe children are individuals and programmes should be reflective of this. Above all children are a treasure and should be cared for by understanding and loving staff.
MISSION STATEMENT
The needs of the child shall be the first and greatest consideration, with care and education enhancing the development of the child and supporting the family.
We will provide a caring, stimulating and attractive environment in the style of Reggio Emilia, whereby children are empowered to develop at their own level and learning opportunities are reflective of their individual needs.
We will provide a stimulating programme making learning a fun, enjoyable and natural experience that incorporates the principles of Te Whāriki (National Curriculum) and the Reggio Emilia approach.
Our centre will reflect our cultural diversity, heritage and Christian philosophy. Our staff will offer guidance with gentleness and skill.
OUR AIMS
Through the topic-related programme based on individual child observations, evaluations and assessments in conjunction with teacher-directed activities, children will be provided with the opportunity to:
- Be a child and have fun.
- Experience success through developmentally appropriate activities i.e. creative art, music and drama, storytelling, manipulative and other forms of play.
- Be provided with activities to develop an understanding of mathematical concepts such as shape, colour, size and numbers.
- Be provided with experiences to develop an awareness of our environment, living things and scientific ideas.
- Be provided with pre-reading and pre-writing activities.
- Be provided with experiences to enrich language and communication.
- Be provided with experiences to gain an understanding of technology.
- Develop a positive self-image and self-esteem by gaining an understanding of God and his love for them.
- Develop an awareness of health and safety, hygiene and cleanliness.
- Develop physical growth and muscular co-ordination through a variety of educational and playground activities.
- Learn appropriate skills necessary to carry out given tasks and develop independence.
- Learn skills for life through play and routines.
- Practice thoughtful and courteous behaviour to everyone.