At BestStart Glenfield, our Set for School programme is woven into our Local Curriculum to support tamariki with confidence, curiosity, and capability as they transition to primary school or kura.
At BestStart Glenfield, our Set for School programme links to our Local Curriculum of Holistic Development. We want to prepare our tamariki to transition to primary school or kura competently and full of confidence—ready to take on the world.
Through rich learning experiences, our kaiako tune into the unique curiosities of our tamariki and create deep, meaningful learning opportunities that awaken each child’s natural desire to learn.
Some parents and whānau may believe that being ‘Set for School’ means tamariki must be academically equipped before starting—able to read, write, and count. However, through our collaboration with new entrant kaiako from local primary schools, we’ve found that their priorities are based on key competencies. These include the ability to ask for help, follow instructions, self-manage, take responsibility, and be curious learners—values that are already central to our philosophy!
Our programme builds on these competencies through a play-based curriculum, offering daily opportunities to grow fine motor skills and pincer grip. Activities include cutting, carpentry, using manipulative resources, drawing, painting, planting, and even helping make beds for nap time.
To foster early literacy, our kaiako nurture a love of books and reading, sharing both fiction and non-fiction texts as well as stories from diverse cultures. Language development and communication are prioritised in our language-rich environment, where strategies such as serve and return are used to help tamariki express their ideas, thoughts, and feelings confidently.
Independence is also a key focus. Tamariki are supported to develop self-care skills, decision-making, and emotional regulation. Kaiako teach calming strategies and encourage tamariki to manage their emotions and behaviour in positive ways.
Our Set for School strategy is integrated into every area of play. By following the interests of our tamariki, we ensure meaningful, engaging learning experiences that support a smooth, positive transition to school or kura.