Today we had the privilege of welcoming Carlos Cheung, the local Member of Parliament for Mt Roskill, to BestStart Stoddard Road. His surprise visit provided a valuable opportunity for our team and tamariki to showcase our centre and engage in meaningful discussions about early childhood education and community services.
Connecting with Our Children
During his visit, Mr Cheung spent time interacting with our tamariki and observing the vibrant, nurturing environment we strive to create. It was heartening to see his enthusiasm as he explored the diverse activities children take part in each day. From imaginative play to art projects, every moment reflected creativity, engagement and joy.
Focus on Early Childhood Education
A key part of the visit involved conversations about current early childhood education regulations and their implications for our centre. Mr Cheung was interested in hearing about our experiences and perspectives on ongoing changes in ECE policy. We shared insights into how these regulations influence our daily operations and the quality of education we provide.
We also discussed the importance of funding for early childhood education. These resources are essential for maintaining high standards, investing in support for our kaiako and enriching learning experiences for our tamariki. We highlighted our inclusive practices that celebrate the diverse cultural backgrounds of our families, creating an environment where every child feels valued and respected.
Supporting the Community
Mr Cheung asked about our van services, which play an important role in helping families access childcare. He recognised that this support assists families and helps ensure that every child has the opportunity to participate in our programmes.
Mr Cheung’s visit highlighted the strong connection between early childhood education, local governance and community wellbeing. His genuine interest in our centre and our tamariki reinforced the importance of collaboration in strengthening ECE services.
We thank Mr Cheung for taking the time to visit and look forward to continuing to work together to ensure our children receive the best possible start in their educational journeys. Together, we can build a strong foundation for future generations.