At BestStart Māngere East, our Mountain Climbers programme sets tamariki up for school success. With meaningful experiences, school visits, and cultural connection, they take their next step ready to thrive with confidence and curiosity.
At BestStart Māngere East, we understand that starting school is a major milestone in a child’s life. That’s why we’ve developed our Mountain Climbers programme—a dedicated school readiness initiative that supports our older tamariki as they prepare to transition confidently into primary school.
The Mountain Climbers programme provides a focused, age-appropriate learning environment where our kaiako (teachers) work closely with each child to build the foundational skills they’ll need in the classroom and beyond.
Our kaiako create rich, engaging learning experiences that reflect the interests and cultures of our tamariki, while also introducing them to the routines and expectations of a primary school setting. Whether it’s group mat times, lunchbox practice, or opportunities to lead and contribute, every part of the programme is designed to nurture capable, curious, and resilient learners.
As a centre, we also visit our local schools—Sutton Park, Māngere East, and Nga Iwi. These visits allow our tamariki to get a feel for what school will be like, helping to ease the transition and build familiarity.
At BestStart Māngere East, we believe that when tamariki are well-prepared and supported, they can approach school with a strong sense of identity, belonging, and eagerness to learn. The Mountain Climbers programme helps ensure that when our tamariki take that next big step, they do so with pride and confidence.