LATEST STORIES
Sustainability
Promoting sustainability in early childhood education is crucial for fostering environmental responsibility and mindfulness in young children. Implementing sustainable practices in an early childhood education setting not only benefits the environment but also teaches children valuable lessons about caring for our planet, life, and nature.
At BestStart Kaikorai Valley Road, we have been working with our children to plant seedlings that will grow to feed our resident bunny Mr. Patch. We kindly received lemon and lime trees donated to us by the Warehouse Group, who are supporting us to teach our children to care for and appreciate the nature world. The children have participated in the entire planting process, from watering to pruning, and they even use leftover water from their cups during kai times to water the plants and trees.
We continue to recycle paper and encourage children to use recycled paper whenever possible. Integrating sustainability into our localized curriculum at Kaikorai Valley Road involves a range of activities, such as gardening, recycling, water conservation, and understanding the importance of reducing waste. By engaging children in these activities, they develop a deeper appreciation for their environment and learn practical ways to contribute to a more sustainable future.
Our approach aligns with the principles of Te Whāriki, the early childhood education curriculum, which emphasizes holistic development and the importance of children learning through active exploration and social interaction. Additionally, we draw inspiration from the Ngāi Tahu Education Strategy Te Rautaki Mātauranga, which focuses on creating pathways, prioritizing success, providing leadership, and promoting innovation. Incorporating the National Education and Learning Priorities (NELP), we ensure our learning environment is safe, inclusive, and free from discrimination.
We have high aspirations for every learner, supporting them by partnering with their whānau and communities to design and deliver education that responds to their needs and sustains their identities. By embedding these values and strategies into our daily practices, we aim to nurture a generation of environmentally conscious and responsible individuals.